What Results Can I Expect from Laser Skin Resurfacing?

I risk the disagreement of many of my colleagues who have and use fractional lasers in their practices, but I would be able to submit evidence that this is indeed a correct statement. First, I will state that there is nothing WRONG with fractional lasers or resurfacing--they do make nice changes in the skin and are generally appreciated by patients who have these procedures. BUT. . .laser surgeons who charge a lot, and promise even more, can risk the wrath of patients who feel their... more

Laser resurfacing works on a wide variety of different issues often in just one treatment and can reverse the aging process in experienced hands. It improves: 1) fine lines and wrinkles 2) hyperpigmentation 3) sun spots  4) texture 5) precancerous spots 6) acne scarring (which may require more sessions). In our East Bay practice in San Francisco, where we are able to provide dermatology, laser, and plastic surgery services all under one roof,... more

The fractional CO2 laser is used to reverse the effects of facial skin aging and sun damage to the skin. The laser will have the effect of skin tightening, filling in lines and wrinkles, improving discoloration of the skin (brown spots), and improving the tone/texture of the skin itself. It also improves the appearnce of large pores. Results will vary based on the type of fractional CO2 laser used (they are NOT all the same), and based upon the physician performing the treatments. Be... more

Laser resurfacing helps remove aged or sun-damaged skin in order for younger healthier skin to grow in its place. Although there are a few risks such as infection or laser scarring, some possible benefits it can offer your skin includes new collagen production, removal of wrinkles and lines, and tighter, smoother skin. Skin rejuvenation would result in clearer skin with an even skin tone as well as reduction of poor sizes.

Laser Skin resurfacing, like a fine meal, will depend on what your hungry for and what's on the menu. Most resurfacing procedures are useful, to varying degrees, for such conditions as wrinkles, texture, color, lines, skin tightening, and acne scars. Currently, most resurfacing can be divided into Ablative resurfacing procedures (what we think of classically as "resurfacing") and Non-Ablative procedures. Further, Ablative resurfacing is now divided into Traditional resurfacing... more

Results will depend on the following: technology being used, physicians experience, and your skin type/texture. Definitely have a consultation with the physician prior to any laser treatment. At that time the physician can tell you what you can expect. The downtime can be discussed at the consultation, depends on how aggressive you want to go. Laser skin resurfacing targets tone, texture and tightening.

For best results, you should learn about Fractional CO2 Laser resurfacing and seek out a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has performed more than 50 cases of your skin type. Pre-op and post-op skin care routines are critical to achieve best results and minimize post-treatment pigmentation and thus must be customized according to your skin types and priorities.

The short answer is that you could look like nothing was done or you could look 10-15 years younger. It all depends on which procedure you choose, how the procedure is performed, what the downtime is and how experienced the practitioner is. CO2 resurfacing is generally accepted to have the most dramatic results, but also the lengthiest and most difficult recovery. Second to CO2 is fractional and Erbium resurfacing procedures. Lesser still are non-ablative (no downtime) procedures. ... more

The term "resurfacing" formerly had one definition: full carbon dioxide resurfacing. But this is no longer the case. While full-face carbon dioxide is still largely considered to be the "gold standard" by which other therapies are judged, the vast majority of current resurfacing treatments are not done this way. I personally still believe carbon dioxide is the most effective type of laser for tissue tightening, acne scars, and wrinkles. However, ablative resurfacing... more

Expected results from laser resurfacing depends on many things: skin type, degree of wrinkling, physician approach, type of technology. You should visit with an experienced physician regarding approach, desired result, and expectations as they will vary widely. You can count on some sort of down time and exfoliation, swelling, and persistent redness prior to any results in tone, texture, and tightening, as Co2 lasers vaporize tissue, and cause thermal contraction of skin. I encourage you to... more