Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is done to help your skin look younger and healthier. If your skin has had sun damage that caused blotches, scars, wrinkles, or lines, then laser skin resurfacing is ideal for you! Laser skin resurfacing removes skin layer by layer with precision. The new skin cells then form during the healing process, which gives the skin a tighter and younger looking surface. This procedure can be done solely or with other cosmetic surgeries on the face.

What should you expect during and after the procedure?

Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure and is usually done by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Common areas where laser resurfacing is applied to include wrinkles around the mouth, forehead, and eyes. For smaller areas, the plastic surgeon will numb the areas to be treated with a local anesthetic and may also sedate you. You may get general anesthesia if your whole face is being treated. This procedure usually takes anywhere from 30-45 minutes if small areas are done. If the entire face is being treated, it can take up to two hours.

Once the laser resurfacing procedure is complete, the plastic surgeon will apply bandages to all of the treated areas. After 24 hours, the patient will need to clean the treated areas four to five times a day and apply an ointment such as petroleum jelly. This is done to prevent scabs from forming and scarring. Patients may experience swelling after laser skin resurfacing and this is completely normal. The plastic surgeon will prescribe steroids or medication to reduce the amount of swelling around your eyes and face.

Patients may experience some itching or stinging on the treated areas for about 12 to 72 hours after the procedure. The patient’s skin will start to peel approximately five to seven days after the treatment. The total healing process can take anywhere from 10 to 21 days, depending on how much skin area was treated.

It is very important for patients who undergo laser resurfacing to wear a broad-spectrum sun block with an SPF of 50 or higher. This is because the “new skin” is vulnerable and may be susceptible to burning easier. Patients must also make sure to keep their skin very moisturized after the procedure.