Laser resurfacing results vs. downtime

Laser resufacing can be done with as little downtime as you desire to the most downtime and most results. Very simply, more risks can lead to more results and vice versa. For more superficial results, all you have to do is turn down the energy on the laser and decrease the density that the lasers create with... more

Hi Diane, 1) Usually, the least down-time procedures involve minimal results but the arrival of the Fraxel Restore laser, has allowed people to have some redness, mild swelling and peeling with some bronzing for three to five days. Most people though, continue to do their normal routine.  Fine lines, acne... more

Greetings Diane, The answer to your questions lie in what your conerns are - are you concerned about wrinkles or age spots or possibly both. The second half of the question is - how much of a result are you looking for versus how much of a downtime can you take. For some people, downtime is the key and... more

Hi, Diane, I would respectfully disagree with Dr. Berkowitz about one aspect. Traditional CO2 laser can indeed give you the best results in terms of tightening of the skin and removal of wrinkles. The downtime, however, is much longer than a week. It can take up to a month of redness and edema, and sometimes... more

Laser skin resurfacing has been very effective at tightening skin and reversing sun damage.  The gold standard is traditional resurfacing with a CO2 (carbon dioxide laser by Coherent , now Lumenis).  The downtime can be 7-10 days on average.  Most patients have rosiness to their skin for another... more