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What You Should Know About Total Laser Resurfacing

By Roger Foster


Laser therapy for the management of skin conditions is a practice that continues to gain popularity by the day. Total laser resurfacing is today the preferred method of reducing wrinkles and superficial lines from the skin. Compared to other modalities used for the same, it is less painful, leads to more rapid recovery and is associated with less side effects. We will explore a number of things Cincinnati residents need to consider if they plan to undergo the procedure.

During the treatment, the laser beam is directed to the epidermis which is the most superficial layer of the skin. Collagen fibers that are found in this area are destroyed by the beam. The body initiates a healing mechanism which results in the formation of new fibers within days to weeks. On the surface this is manifested by smoother texture with reduction in the prominence of scars, periorbital lines, perioral lines and skin pigments.

Anyone can be a candidate for the procedure. There are not many known contraindications. However, it is important to note that there are a number of medications that you need to avoid in the days leading up to the procedure. These include, among others, aspirin, vitamin E and any supplements that may hinder clotting. You also need to avoid smoking for two weeks before and after the procedure.

There is usually no need for admission to a facility as the treatment can be easily carried out in an office. There is very little preparation that is required. Light topical anesthesia may or may not be required depending on the sensitivity of the affected skin. A session lasts for between 30 minutes to one hour but may be longer or shorter depending on the extent of the problem and expected results.

One session is adequate for a majority of people. A few people exhibit a minimal response and require additional treatments before the required changes are seen. Any additional changes are usually administered at intervals of 6 weeks. This is necessary as it gives the collagen tissue (in the epidermis) time to regenerate.

For light skinned individuals, there is often a residual pink or red color over the treated area. The color normalizes within two to three months (a little longer in fair skinned people). These areas can be covered by oil-free, green based makeup if they are a major concern. For persons with darker skin tones, the main side effect appears to be formation of dark pigments. A small amount of a bleaching agent used before and after the procedure helps mask these changes.

There is no need for any dressing as you go home. A number of recovery products will be prescribed by your doctor to be used for a couple of days until your next visit. Such products include a hyper emollient cream, a gentle cleanser, antibiotics and a sun block. Mineral make-up may also be necessary in the event that the pink discoloration is noted.

Laser resurfacing can be used in both men and woman and for a wide range of skin conditions. In spite of the high success rates that are associated with this procedure, it should be understood that results vary from one person to another. Some people require more sessions and a longer period of time to show a positive response.




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