Skin Rejuvenation
Technological advances in medicine over the last two decades have given us new ways in which to treat patients. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in the field of plastic surgery. One of the newest and most revolutionary technical advances in plastic surgery is the evolution of laser skin resurfacing. We are all aware of the ravages of ultraviolet radiation and gravity on the exposed skin of the body, which is most prominently on the face and hands. These problems have been addressed with deep chemical peels or dermabrasion procedures. However, laser technology has afforded us an improved method with a faster recovery time than the other procedures.
New laser technology with confusing marketing terms have flooded the media over the last few years, but in essence, there are two categories of laser application. Ablative lasers, such as CO2 and Erbium lasers, are able to penetrate the skin (dermis) layers to such an extent that dermal remodeling will result in major improvements of wrinkles on the face and around the eyes and mouth. Non ablative lasers, such as photofacials and intense pulse light, will rejuvenate your epidermis with visual improvements of age spots, fine wrinkles and small blood vessels of the skin. They are also very effective for hair removal and obliteration of spider veins.
At the Plastic Surgery Specialists we use the newest laser technology to offer an array of body laser treatments. Our Erbium laser Microlaserpeel is our "weekend peel” which reduces pore size, removes fine wrinkles and gives the skin a nice, uniform tone by removing sun damaged brown spots and freckles. Dermal lesions can be ablated with no scarring, and full facial peels for major wrinkle reduction can be performed without pre treatment. Our 1064 laser removes spider and varicose veins successfully, and eradicated most types of hair on all skin types with minimal to no discomfort without topical anesthetics. Our exciting "photofacial" 1319 laser stimulates deep skin collagen rejuvenation, which thickens the dermis over a 4-6 month period. This reduces facial wrinkles, retracts loose facial skin with the advantage of no "down time" for superficial skin healing! Thus, your understanding of the many variations of laser modalities will keep your expectations regarding your resurfacing choices realistic. Your overall result is dependent on many factors including your age, heredity, general skin type and condition, along with the laser system used. Thus, we advise you to discuss your concerns with Dr. Manis or Dr. Hvistendahl before embarking on a procedure that may not meet your expectations.
Surgical Details
The actual laser surgery is safely performed in our fully accredited operative suite. Generally, a topical anesthetic is used with all facial work and this may be enhanced with intravenous sedation depending on the planned area for treatment. The laser beam is passed over the treatment area accurately removing skin layer by layer. The overall procedure results in reduction of visible wrinkles immediately on completion of the surgery. During you hair od spider vein removal, a cooling plate will be place on your skin which reduces the discomfort dramatically without using topical anesthetics.
Fees for the procedure vary widely depending on the extent of the procedure. Please feel free to contact our office at any time for a laser consultation. We will be happy to assess your particular concerns and present you with a treatment plan fitting your special issues.
As with any surgery, regardless of how minor, certain risks exist. These again should be discussed carefully and thoroughly during your consultation with our certified plastic surgeons.
Overall, the results of laser skin resurfacing are predictable, relatively risk free and to date, long lasting. The aging process however, is never completely halted and you may require further rejuvenating procedures, either as a maintenance program or several years down the road.
Consult one of our board certified plastic surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Specialists for a complete consultation regarding eyes/browlift and how it may improve your self confidence and restore a more youthful appearance to your skin.