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Facial Rejuvenation Laser Skin
Resurfacing
Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs
Q-What is laser skin resurfacing? A-Laser
skin resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure which utilizes a laser device
in order to treat wrinkled, sun-damaged and aged skin, as well as
birthmarks and spider veins.
Q-Who is a good candidate for laser
resurfacing? A- Good candidates for laser resurfacing
include physically healthy men and women who have realistic expectations
and are looking to improve the appearance of the facial skin.
Pigmentation changes in the skin may be more likely to occur in patients
with olive, brown or black skin.
Q-What can I expect during a consultation for laser
resurfacing? A-During a consultation for laser skin
resurfacing, the surgeon will perform a routine examination and discuss
your medical history and your goals. Photographs may also be taken of
the areas to be treated. The surgeon should also discuss the details of
the procedure, the potential risks, the recovery and the costs.
Q-Where can laser skin resurfacing be
performed? A-Laser skin resurfacing may be performed in a
surgeon's office-based facility, an outpatient surgical center.
Q-What type of anesthesia is used during laser skin
resurfacing? A-Laser skin resurfacing is commonly performed
with local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may also
be used.
Q-How is the actual laser resurfacing procedure
performed? A-During a laser resurfacing
procedure, the activated laser is passed back and forth over the skin of
the treated area, transferring the laser energy into the tissue of the
skin. Upon completion of the procedure, the resurfaced skin may be
treated with protective creams or ointments and then bandaged.
Q-How long does the laser resurfacing procedure
take? A-Depending upon the size of the treated area, a laser
skin resurfacing procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an
hour and a half.
Q-What is the recovery like after laser skin
resurfacing? A-After the laser skin resurfacing procedure,
patients may experience some mild discomfort and swelling. The bandages
will be removed after 2 days. The skin often appears pink or red and
this can persist for up to six months. Frequent cleansing of the skin is
done to prevent crusting. In 10 days you will be able to apply
make-up to cover the redness.
Q-How much time will I need to take off from work after laser
skin resurfacing? A-Patients are typically able to return to
work within 10 to 14 days after a laser skin resurfacing procedure.
Q-When can I exercise after undergoing laser skin
resurfacing? A-Strenuous activities should be postponed for
four to six weeks and sun exposure should be limited for six to twelve
months.
Q-What are the risks or complications that can occur with
laser skin resurfacing? A-Some of the potential
complications that can occur with laser skin resurfacing include adverse
anesthesia reactions, burns or other heat-related injuries, cold sores,
infection, lightening or darkening of the treated skin, and scarring.
Q-Is laser skin resurfacing covered by
insurance? A-Laser skin resurfacing is typically not covered
by insurance, though some degree of coverage may be available when used
to treat cancerous skin growths.
Q-Is it possible to get financing for a laser resurfacing
procedure? A- Financing is available for many plastic
surgery procedures.
Q-What should I look for in a surgeon to perform my laser
resurfacing procedure? A-It's best that the surgeon
performing your laser skin resurfacing procedure be board certified by
the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
(ABFPRS) as this ensures that they've completed the proper training to
safely conduct your procedure. There are also several important
questions that you should ask any potential surgeon:
. Does the surgeon have privileges to perform surgery in an
accredited hospital and which hospitals? . How many laser skin
resurfacing procedures has the surgeon performed? . How will the
surgery be performed? . Where will the surgery be performed and
is the facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting
organization? . What are the risks of the procedure for you?
Q-What does board certified mean? A-Please click here to see our web page on Board
Certification.
Q-Are the results of laser skin resurfacing
permanent? A-The results of laser skin resurfacing are
long-lasting, though new wrinkles may form as the skin continues to
age.
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