Laser Rejuvenating & Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a surgical procedure generally undertaken by those with dermatological issues. The procedure is known to help lessen the effects of the sun, aging, and acne on facial skin. Laser resurfacing and rejuvenation removes the damaged outer layers and stimulates the production of collagen and new skin cells in the underlying layers. This may cause the patient to experience smoother, younger and healthier skin. It is also common for this procedure to be done in conjunction with a facelift.

Laser skin rejuvenation and resurfacing is performed using a beam of laser energy which vaporizes the upper layers of damaged skin at specific and controlled levels of penetration. In many cases the procedure may have to be replicated on more than one occasion to have the desired effect. Following the procedure it will take several months before the effects are fully realized.

Although laser rejuvenation and resurfacing may alter to meet the requirements of a patient, the surgery is essentially conducted with the same procedure. Firstly the outer layers of damaged skin are removed as the surgeon dictates the penetration of the laser to the level where the imperfection disappears. When the imperfections are particularly deep, the consultant will explain that the resurfacing should be conducted in two or more phases. In some cases a bandage may be applied to the treated area to protect the healing skin, whilst in some cases the surgeon may also choose to treat the resurfaced area with applications until the healing is complete.

Preparation

Prior to undergoing laser rejuvenating and resurfacing surgery, consideration and preparation are vital elements. Those who are considering the procedure should clearly outline their targets, and openly discuss this with their consultant. Those who are considering the procedure should be aware of the risks and complications that can arise, as well as the practical changes that are needed prior to surgery. Patients will be required to avoid using any applications on their skin for a period before the operation. It is also recommended that patients purchase high factor sun block to prepare for the damage exposure to the sun may cause following surgery. In preparation for surgery the shade and texture of your skin will be assessed, generally those with fair skin are the best candidates for laser rejuvenation and therefore this is an issue which will be assessed accordingly. In preparation of surgery it is also highly recommended that patients avoid smoking or passive to provide a quicker post-operative recovery.

After the operation

Following the operation patient's should ensure they are not overly exposed to the sun, whilst wearing sun block to limit damage. Patient's should also relax and do little physically exerting activity. As well as being advised to stop smoking prior to surgery, patients should also do similarly following surgery for a period of two weeks.

Recovering from laser rejuvenating and resurfacing surgery

• Patients should avoid smoking as well as any exposure to passive smoking prior to and after the procedure.
• After surgery patients will be required to follow the guidelines which relate to exposure from the sun.
• Patients will be required to wear ointment for a period afterwards
• A patient's skin will take an extensive time to fully heal whilst the benefits of surgery will take a prolonged period for the patient to realize the full benefit. This is an issue you should be discussed with the consultant.

For the large majority of adults who under go laser rejuvenating and resurfacing the results will be a success with no unforeseen consequences. Despite this, the capacity for risks and complications remain, as is the case for almost all surgical procedures.

Risks and complications

• Those with olive and tanned skin may be under the risk of skin discoloration, whilst those with fair skin stand a reduced chance.
• In some instances those who have undergone laser rejuvenating and resurfacing have suffered intense burns.
• Patients with eczema may suffer irritation as a result of surgery.

By nature, all medical procedures carry an element of risk. While the majority of patients do not experience any complication during our laser rejuvenating & resurfacing procedures, before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the Mclean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose.