Laser resurfacing

CO2 skin rejuvenation

In the last half of this century, men and women have had more leisure time to spend outdoors than in previous generations. Many hours spent on outside recreations and the prevalence of both summer and winter vacations, have all taken their toll on people's skin. Premature wrinkling is more common now than ever before. Both men and women seek facial plastic surgery to reverse the effects of sun damaged skin. Surgery may also improve the pitted look of acne scars and remove pre-cancerous skin growths called keratoses.

Is skin resurfacing for you?

The most basic requirement for any surgery is good health. Other requirements are more subtle and should be carefully considered in discussions with your surgeon. Expectations of surgery and of the surgeon must be realistic. Skin resurfacing procedures cannot produce perfect skin; rather the goal is to improve the appearance of the skin as much as possible.

Skin type and color, ethnic background, and age are important factors that should be discussed prior to surgery. If you have dark skin or problems such as allergies, previous burns, a history of poor scars, or radiation exposure, you may need special evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for these procedures. If you have had episodes of cold sores and blisters around the mouth, inform your surgeon of this condition.

Before deciding on a skin resurfacing procedure, we may recommend a skin care regimen prior to the procedure. If you have extensive damage from aging or injury, more than one procedure may be necessary.

Mr Reuser will examine your skin to assess factors that could affect the outcome of the surgery and to determine the proper procedure for your condition. You and I will explore your attitudes toward surgery, and discuss realistic expectations and risks.

After you and I decide to proceed with laser resurfacing, all options for the procedure will be discussed along with the risks. You will also receive information relating to the procedure. Bear in mind that the procedure cannnot correct sagging skin or halt the aging process. Furthermore, as it may lighten skin colour, you must make a commitment to use sunblock. Following a thorough medical history, we will advise you as to anesthesia options, the surgical facility being used, any additional surgery options, and the costs for the procedure. Mr Reuser also suggest other surgery, either before or after your resurfacing procedure in order to enhance your overall appearance.

Understanding the surgery

The skin is composed of the epidermis and the dermis. Within the dermis are two layers, both of which are constructed of collagen, long fibers that loosen and stretch with age and sun damage. If the deepest layer, the reticular layer, is damaged, scars result, while the upper layer of the dermis, the papillary layer, heals from injuries without scarring.

Before the surgery, the face is first thoroughly cleansed with a solution to remove oil and to prepare the skin for deepest penetration.

Laser surgery is used to resurface facial skin with wrinkles caused by excess sun exposure, "crow's feet," and acne scarring. The high energy, amplified light waves of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser vaporize the top layer of skin instantly, with no beeding and minimal trauma to the surrounding sk

What to expect after the surgery

Swelling and "crusting" of the skin are normal, and ointments to keep the skin supple will be applied for seven to 10 days following surgery.

You will need to care for your skin meticulously, certainly the first 10 to 14 days following the procedure.

In one to two weeks after surgery, new skin will emerge that is pinkish, finer, and free of many wrinkles. But it will take several weeks for all the redness to vanish. Follow-up care involves using sunblock in order to protect the skin while new pigment is created. Patients will notice that the skin remains lighter for a long time after surgery, but that condition will usually subside when the skin's pigment level has been restored.