If you’ve ever wished that you could renew your complexion to make it smoother and more even-toned, contact the Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery to discuss laser resurfacing, which may be a good option for you.

What is laser resurfacing?
Is laser resurfacing right for me?
How is laser resurfacing done?
Is laser resurfacing safe?
Are there other options?
What kind of results can I expect from laser resurfacing?
How will I look and feel right after the procedure?

WHAT IS LASER RESURFACING?

Also called “laser peel,” this procedure smoothes facial skin by using a laser to refinish damaged areas and shrink fine wrinkles. It also corrects areas of uneven pigmentation.

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IS LASER RESURFACING RIGHT FOR ME?

Men and women of all ages may benefit from laser resurfacing. The best results from the procedure are typically seen in individuals with fair, healthy, non-oily skin.

You may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing if you have any of the following conditions:

  • fine lines, especially around the mouth
  • vertical lines around the mouth
  • facial scars caused by injury or accident
  • scars caused by acne
  • areas of uneven pigmentation, such as “age spots”
  • line on the cheeks caused by sun damage

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HOW IS LASER RESURFACING DONE?

A beam of laser energy is used to vaporize the upper layers of damaged skin with accurate precision. As new cells form during the healing process, smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin appears.

During the procedure, the activated laser is carefully passed back and forth over the skin until the surgeon reaches the safest level that will make the wrinkle or scar less visible. When imperfections are deep, your surgeon may recommend that the resurfacing be performed in two or more stages.

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IS LASER RESURFACING SAFE?

Each year, thousands of men and women undergo laser resurfacing and experience no major complications. However, it is important for you to be informed of the risks as well as the benefits.

When you meet with Dr. Sinno, he will cover any possible complications. At any time, you can raise any questions that you may have about the procedure.

By carefully following your surgeon’s advice and instructions – both before and after surgery – you can do your part to minimize some of the risks.

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ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS?

Precision and predictability are the major advantages of laser resurfacing. However, laser resurfacing isn’t the only method that plastic surgeons use to refinish the facial skin. Alternative methods include:

  • Retin-A treatment - a light skin-refinishing treatment that involves regular applications of a vitamin A-enriched cream.
  • Glycolic acid peel – a light resurfacing treatment that involves use of a prescription-strength facial wash or cream
  • Dermabrasion – a more aggressive method in which the surface layer of skin is removed with a motorized brush
  • Chemical peel – a resurfacing method in which a chemical solution is applied to peel away the top layers of skin, allowing a fresh new layer to emerge

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WHAT KIND OF RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?

Most patients notice a significant improvement in the tone and texture of their skin.

You should be aware that even though your results will be long-lasting, your face will continue to age. Following your treatment, your natural facial movements will eventually cause expression lines to recur. Using sun protection and a skin-care regimen recommended by Dr. Sr. Sinno will help to maintain your results. However, some patients decide to repeat the treatment after several years to restore their rejuvenated look.

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HOW WILL I LOOK AND FEEL RIGHT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

When the procedure is over, Dr. Sinno will cover your face with protective ointment and give you more ointment to use at home for the first week of healing.

You are likely to experience some mild to moderate swelling. However, ice packs and medication prescribed by your surgeon can help you stay more comfortable.

Although everyone heals at a different rate, you can expect that your recovery will follow this general time line:

The first three weeks:

  • skin will be bright pink to red in color. The redness is a positive sign that the healing process is progressing and a new layer of collagen is being laid down
  • you can safely apply makeup as a concealer (after about 2 weeks)
  • you may be able to return to work
  • you’ll begin to feel a lot more comfortable

After a month:

  • the redness will start to fade

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It’s important to remember that the redness will fade gradually. Although the color will continue to diminish with every passing week, some pinkness may remain for three to four months.

In the months following treatment, it’s essential to protect your face from the sun until all the color has returned to normal. If you must be in the sun, apply a strong sun block with an SPF of 15 or higher and shade your face with a visor or wide-brimmed hat. You should also wear good quality sunglasses that have filters to block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. If sun-related darkening occurs, your plastic surgeon may suggest using a bleaching cream to even out the color.

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