J-Plasma for Face - Dunedin, FL

I had to use "Laser Treatment" in the real-self drop-down box as there is no J-Plasma category yet - although I've been told this treatment is NOT a Laser. I did as much research as was possible on this prior to signing up for the treatment and was impressed enough with the safety and efficacy to go ahead. My Dr., Erel Laufer of Dunedin, FL is well respected, has years of experience, and is a real sweetie. (A very warm and genuine individual who you feel is actually conversing with you, rather than speaking in a disconnected zombie-like fashion which I have found is far too prevalent in the medical field in general.) Additionally, he fixed my nose years ago and the result was excellent. Dr. Laufer suggested General Anesthesia for this procedure for optimal comfort - but I asked if I could have local and he agreed to it. Now here's the rub on that: It wasn't easy. Two Halcion tablets, topical numbing cream, and many injections of local anesthetic (ouch!) and I still felt it in places. (Not everywhere - but maybe 50% of my face.) Not at all pleasant, but doable. I will add that I have always had a high tolerance for pain - so I was surprised. They say it is virtually painless - perhaps that is true for some, but not for me for whatever reason. So, just keep in mind that if your Dr is offering General Anesthesia for this, you may want to consider it. Why did I do this? For general tightening of face, reduction in some scarring and overall resurfacing and refreshment of the facial area. (I am 59 years old. Skin not AWFUL overall, but a few definite trouble spots and general normal laxity for my age.) I have had various laser treatments in the past - virtually worthless. I vowed if I were ever going to do something similar again - it would have to look like something revolutionary was available - and I believe this could very well be the real deal.
Recovery: Ick.! Not painful - just very uncomfortable. Greasy, tight, swelling that semi-obscures vision. If you do it definitely have some sleeping medication or tranquilizers prescribed (as I did) or you will not be able to sleep for at least the first few nights. I am two days post now and look hideous. (No pain no gain as they say.) But from what I am seeing so far, this thing looks like it will be transformational. Sheets of bad "face" are already starting to slough. Will update in another few days. The Good Doc says I am proceeding well and right on schedule thus far. Seeing him again tomorrow. Will also post a pic or two when this is all over......and maybe a before pic too, if I can figure out how to blur the eyes out! PS: Speaking of eyes - J-plasma is so precise it can do right under the eyes and eyelids as well....and from what I have seen regarding before and after pictures of other people - THAT really makes a a difference.

I had this procedure on 3/20. Today is 3/24. Recovery has continued to be a gooey mess - still uncomfortable but not painful. Today, however, I feel as if I am turning a corner. Still oozing a bit, but swelling is starting to subside and skin does not feel quite as sunburn-y and annoying. The hideousness I saw in the mirror since day one (which was about a 10 on a scale of 1 - 10) is now about a 7. Progress! Saw Doctor Laufer Friday - he was very supportive and says I am doing fine. Going back to see him in three days at which point I hope to look reasonably human.

Lots of dead skin and ick stuff (God knows what) is sloughing from my face. Waking up in the morning is the worst part. The protective face grease dries up overnight and everything feels tight (especially around the eyes) and I can barely open them until I grease up again. The Doc also did under my chin and my earlobes (which is nice!) but they are additional areas to grease up. So basically, I have been a walking grease-bomb. Feel pretty good today (except for the grease-gross which is HARD to get out of your hair when you are trying to be careful of your face.) As I mentioned previously, I am seeing the Doc again Tuesday and will post another update and maybe another picture. Below is a before pic.