Laser resurfacing may be discussed for lines, sun-related changes, and selected scars, including acne scars. The Orange team assesses your skin and medical history before recommending treatment.
As we age, our skin begins to change as a result of several different lifestyle factors. The natural collagen within the skin begins to diminish and skin may sag and droop. Smoking, alcohol consumption, sun exposure, nutrition and more can also lead to the development of wrinkles and fine lines within the skin. Other skin conditions such as acne, brown spots and chicken pox can leave unattractive blemishes on the skin.
What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and other skin irregularities. It offers patients many advantages over traditional resurfacing procedures such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion, as it practically eliminates side effects such as discomfort, bleeding and bruising.*
What is laser skin resurfacing used to treat?
Although laser skin resurfacing uses the same basic principles of other procedures and treats aging, damaged skin by removing a layer of skin, it does so through a noninvasive approach that uses laser energy to remove as much skin as needed. This allows for a much deeper removal through more precise and less invasive techniques.
Laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat:
Wrinkles
Crow's feet
Blotchiness
Acne
Superficial facial scars
Sun damage
Brown spots
Precancerous growths
Chicken pox scars
While this procedure is most commonly performed to treat the effects of aging, it can be performed on patients of any age who are looking to restore their skin to a smooth, clear complexion free of blemishes and other imperfections.
Laser skin resurfacing is commonly performed with either a carbon dioxide (CO2) or an erbium laser. Although the process for these procedures is very similar, the erbium laser is typically used to treat deeper lines and wrinkles within the face, hands, neck and chest. It is also better for darker skin tones. Your doctor will determine which laser is best for you after evaluating the condition of your skin and your medical history, while also considering your desired results.
During the laser skin resurfacing procedure, the laser energy is used to remove layers of damaged skin to leave the treated area smoother and more even through short pulsed light energy that is precisely delivered to the area. The laser is moved over the targeted area multiple times until imperfections are no longer visible and a smooth layer of skin is left. The laser energy causes minimal heat damage to the surrounding structures.
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and uses local anesthesia to help minimize discomfort. The entire procedure can take anywhere from 30 minute to two hours to perform, depending on the size and condition of the treated area. Some patients may require more than one procedure in order to achieve their desired results.
What kind of recovery can I expect after laser skin resurfacing?
After the laser skin resurfacing procedure, patients may experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days. These symptoms can be controlled with ice packs and medication prescribed by your doctor. Patients will also experience redness that gradually diminishes as the skin heals. While most patients can return to work and other normal activities after a few days, redness may persist for several weeks.*
How long will it take to see results from my laser skin resurfacing treatment?
The results of laser skin resurfacing may take months to fully appear, after all signs of redness have diminished. Although the results are long-lasting, they are not permanent. The skin will still be subjected to the natural effects of aging, although your skin will appear younger and smoother than if you had never had any treatment at all.
Are there risks associated with laser skin resurfacing?
Although laser skin resurfacing is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any type of procedure. Some of these risks may include scarring, infection, abnormal healing, allergic reactions or skin pigmentation. However, these risks are considered rare, and most patients undergo these procedures with no major complications.
*Individual results may vary.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Contact Us.
To learn more about laser skin resurfacing or other procedures offered by Mao Facial Plastics, call our practice at 203-907-0501 or fill out our contact form here.
Individual results and recovery vary. Your consultation provides guidance specific to your needs.
Explore published patient cases related to this treatment at Mao Facial Plastic Surgery. Some cases include multiple procedures; the original case titles and details are retained. Individual results vary.
Get to know the surgeon behind Mao Facial Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Johnny Mao’s practice focuses on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, with surgical and non-surgical options tailored to individual concerns. A consultation is the opportunity to discuss your features, your goals, and the care that may be appropriate for you.
Visit our Orange office to ask questions about treatment options, recovery, and follow-up, and learn more about Dr. Mao’s background and approach to care.
Injectables, fillers, and laser treatments remain available for patients exploring non-surgical care. Your consultation can help clarify which options fit your goals.
Welcoming patients from Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Fairfield, Milford, North Haven, Orange, Shelton, Southport, Weston, Westport, Wilton, Woodbridge, New Canaan, Darien, and surrounding Connecticut communities.
Dr. Mao will listen to your concerns, examine your facial anatomy, and discuss surgical and non-surgical options suited to your goals. You will leave with a clear understanding of what to expect.
Facial plastic surgery focuses on procedures of the face, head, and neck — both cosmetic procedures like facelift and rhinoplasty and reconstructive treatments for functional concerns.
Recovery varies by procedure and by patient. Some non-surgical treatments involve little or no downtime. After surgery, the time needed to return to work or routine activities may range from several days to several weeks, while swelling, incision healing, and final results can continue to improve for weeks or months. During your consultation, Dr. Mao will explain the expected recovery timeline, activity restrictions, and follow-up care for the procedure being considered.
Good candidates are in general good health, have realistic expectations, and have specific concerns they would like addressed. A consultation is the best way to find out.
Begin Your Personalized Consultation
Meet with Dr. Johnny Mao to discuss your aesthetic goals and available facial rejuvenation options.
