Procedures > Face Surgery > Laser Skin Resurfacing

The laser procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. However, it is also effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions.

Laser resurfacing is performed using a beam of laser energy, which vaporizes the outer layers of damaged skin at specific and controlled levels of penetration.

Laser resurfacing can enhance your appearance and self-image, but it won't completely remove all facial flaws or prevent you from aging. Lines that occur as a result of natural movements of the face—smiling, squinting, blinking, talking, and chewing—will inevitably recur. Dr. Jackson can suggest ways to help you preserve your results by protecting yourself from sun exposure and using maintenance treatments such as Micropeels or medical facial treatments. Before you decide to have laser resurfacing, discuss your expectations with Dr. Jackson & Dr. Kierney.

Are you a good candidate?

• If you have fine or course wrinkles on your face.
   
• If you have an uneven skin surface as a result of scarring acne or small skin growths.
   
• If you have areas of hyperpigmentation (age spots).

Intended Results

• Smoother, (decreased wrinkles) youthful appearing skin of more uniform color.

• The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis under the appropriate anesthesia.
   
• The pulsed laser removes the superficial layers of the skin. The advantage of the laser is that the depth of treatment is extremely controlled and predictable.
   
• The laser treatment also tightens the skin.

Recuperation and Healing

• You will be sent home with specific written instructions. The treated areas are covered with a tape-like bandaging.
   
• The bandaging post operatively will prevent formation of a crust or scab. This will be for the first 7 days.
   
• Redness (pink color) will usually last from 1 to 6 months.
   
• Makeup can be worn in approximately 10 to 14 days.

Other Options

• Other facial procedures such as blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), facelift, rhinoplasty, and / or cheek implants can be performed at the same time.

Insurance Guidelines

• This procedure is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for the full payment.

Note

• The specific risk and suitability of the procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

Photographs

• No photographs are currently available for this procedure.