Click here for before & after photos of Skin Rejuvenation Procedures What is laser skin resurfacing?Laser skin resurfacing is a technique for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles of the skin using a laser to remove the top layer(s) of the skin. So called "blotchy pigmentation" is usually improved and some scars can also be improved. The superficial layers of the skin are removed by the pulsed laser. The advantage of the laser is that the depth of treatment is extremely controlled and predictable. The laser helps to tighten the skin as well. Am I a candidate for laser skin rejuvenation?
How do lasers work?The word "laser" is an acronym representing "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation." Lasers work by bouncing and amplifying light between lenses and mirrors to produce an intense beam of light that is collimated (able to travel over long distances with little or no divergence of the beam), coherent (the light moves in phase in time and space), and monochromatic (all photons are of the same wavelength). The material(s) within the laser that are stimulated determines the wavelength of the light produced. Where is the laser skin rejuvenation performed? Dr. Waldman performs all his laser skin rejuvenation procedures in his state of the art office surgical facility. How long is the recovery period? You will be sent home with specific written instructions. Depending on the location, the treated areas are covered with a tape like covering or with ointment. The treatment postoperatively will prevent formation of a crust or scab. Healing will be complete in 7-10 days. Redness will usually last from 1-6 months and makeup can be worn once healing is complete. Is laser resurfacing a substitute for a facelift or for surgery on baggy eyelids?No. Lasers do not achieve the tightening and repositioning of facial structures that a facelift can provide. Laser resurfacing also doesn’t help remove the "bag" from the lower eyelid. By offering surgical techniques such as face, brow, and eyelid lifting in combination with laser resurfacing, Dr. Waldman is able to provide a more complete rejuvenation of the face than with either technique alone. What are chemical peels?Chemical peels with various agents including "fruit acids" (glycolic and lactic acids), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), phenol and other chemicals have been used for many years to help smooth the outer layers of the skin. Dr. Waldman believes that light and medium chemical peels have an important role in facial rejuvenation. We offer both lactic and glycolic acid based peels (light), and most patients return to work or social activities within 24 hours. We also do medium depth phenol chemical peels which have 5-7 days of “downtime”. While the appearance of the skin can be significantly improved, these peels cannot provide the results achieved with laser resurfacing. Are lasers safe?While lasers are for the most part quite safe, as with any medical procedure (including chemical peels and dermabrasion) there are risks, benefits and potential complications. Scarring, pain, lack of result, infection, pigmentary changes, delayed healing and other risks are uncommon but possible. A thorough consideration of all risks and potential complications are an essential part of the preoperative consultative process. Related Procedures:
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