Skin Resurfacing (Laser and Chemical Peels)

CO₂ Laser Skin Resurfacing

As one of the most exciting and innovative scientific achievements to date, laser technology is being utilized throughout the health care community. Dr. Sawisch uses the newest lasers, the ultra-speed carbon dioxide laser from DEKA Lasers, to treat sun-damaged skin, facial wrinkles and scars in a procedure called laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Sawisch recently published an article on cosmetic laser skin resurfacing, please ask for a copy at your next visit.

What is a laser?

The word "laser" is an acronym, which stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A surgical laser, such as the CO₂ laser, is a beam of light capable of removing unwanted tissue, such as scarred, lined, wrinkled and otherwise imperfect skin. The laser vaporizes skin cells by emitting bursts of radiation that are absorbed by water in these cells. Laser light penetrates to a very precise, controlled depth, making the procedure safe and predictable, while reducing the risk of scarring or pigmentation problems. Laser skin resurfacing is bloodless, and is performed right here in our office under I.V. sedation anesthesia. As a result of this treatment, you are left with more youthful looking skin.

What areas can be treated through laser resurfacing?

The laser is used to reduce tiny wrinkles, acne scars and other minor skin imperfections, especially around the mouth and eyes. It can improve sun-damaged and acne scarred skin problems that often cause concern to both men and women.

Benefits of Treatment

Laser resurfacing can be used as an alternative to chemical peel and dermabrasion. The benefits of using this technique are less pain and a faster recovery time. In most cases, it is less costly.

Before Surgery

Prior to surgery, Dr. Sawisch will discuss with you the goals for facial improvement. After determining the most appropriate procedure to use, we will fully describe the procedure, what results to expect and the costs. The skin is usually pretreated prior to surgery to improve the healing time.

The Procedure

I.V. sedation anesthetic is given to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. The area is cleansed and draped. Dr. Sawisch directs the laser with a (CPG) computer pattern generator; this allows for an even distribution of impulses over area of treatment and increases the reduction of skin imperfections. The laser quickly and accurately vaporizes the outermost layers of skin just four or five cells in thickness.

What can be expected?

In most cases, only one treatment is needed. The initial redness fades in a few weeks to a light pink, which can be camouflaged with cosmetics. The discoloration usually disappears in one to three months. The goal of laser resurfacing is to enhance facial appearance. Expectations by the patient must be realistic and results should be anticipated as improvements rather than total corrections. Results of the surgery depend on many factors such as the size, shape and location of the imperfection and the patient's heredity, age and general skin condition.

Skin Care Rejuvenation

A skin rejuvenation program is often used in conjunction with either chemical peels or laser treatment to reduce fine wrinkles on the face, lighten areas of hyperpigmentation and produce a softer texture to the skin. The program can be accomplished separately or in conjunction with the other procedures listed here. It is followed at home by the patient after a consultation with our certified aesthetician. A treatment plan is designed for the patient's cosmetic needs. Our skin care department is dedicated to providing you with the latest and most effective skin treatments available

We invite you to inquire about our skin resurfacing procedures and hope it can help you achieve smoother, fresher, younger-looking skin.