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Laser Skin Resurfacing in Tampa

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Laser skin resurfacing is one of the most effective cosmetic procedures used to combat the signs of aging, acne, and unprotected sun exposure. Using precision heating and lasers, cosmetic surgeons remove unhealthy layers of skin to make room for new and youthful skin. The advantage of laser skin treatments is that they can remove or reduce skin damage without having patients undergo cosmetic surgery or expose their skin to artificial treatments.

How does laser skin resurfacing work?

 

Lasers are precision instruments that direct their laser beam straight at the targeted area, leaving the surrounding area untouched. The light beams cut, seal, or gently vaporize skin tissue. The light is then absorbed by water or dark pigments, such as melanin, and converted into heat. When used to treat skin issues, the laser treatment performs targeted exfoliation removing skin layer by layer. When laser technologies are used to improve the appearance of the skin, the body responds with the production of healthy new skin cells and collagen growth in the laser-treated areas. Increased collagen production leads to a visible improvement of fine lines and wrinkles while the new cells create younger and healthier skin and combat skin discoloration.

Resurfacing
Laser Skin Resurfacing

Who can benefit from laser skin resurfacing?

 

Almost anyone is a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing. Patients opt for laser skin resurfacing for various reasons. They usually want to:
 

  • even out skin pigmentation

  • combat skin imperfections

  • restore skin glow and radiance

  • prevent the appearance of wrinkles

  • improve the aspect of moderate to severe facial wrinkles

  • reduce scars from acne

  • enjoy smoother and tighter skin

 

That being said, some patients should discuss their laser procedure eligibility with their doctor if they are suffering from:

 

  • active acne or are on acne medication

  • autoimmune disease

  • immune system conditions

  • predisposition to scarring 

 

People who get cold sores or fever blisters around their mouth should mention their medical history to their dermatologist if they want to undergo laser skin resurfacing because the treatment may trigger breakouts. Furthermore, smokers should consider every potential risk and the fact that smoking may prolong the healing process.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

What to expect during the procedure

 

Laser skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure that allows patients to return to their normal life as soon as the treatment sessions are done. The duration of each session differs depending on the size of the area treated and the patient's skin condition. 

 

The procedure usually targets wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, or forehead, but it can also be performed as a full-face treatment. The main benefit of laser resurfacing is that it is a quick and convenient treatment. Treating a small area may require only 30 minutes, while multiple areas will probably extend your session to one to two hours.

 

If you want to treat small areas, your laser treatment provider will numb the specific areas with a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort to a minimum. Patients undergoing full-face treatment may require general anesthesia.

smooth face

Aftercare

 

When the procedure ends, your doctor will bandage the laser-treated areas and ask you to clean them four to five times a day. They will also recommend using an ointment such as petroleum jelly to avoid scabs, as well as moisturizers. Patients can return to their daily activities when they leave the doctor's office.

 

Swelling is to be expected after laser skin resurfacing and can be managed with steroids prescribed by your healthcare provider. Some patients may feel itching or a stinging sensation for 12 to 72 hours after the treatment and should expect dry skin and peeling in the week to come. The healing process usually lasts for 10 to 21 days depending on the treated area. 

 

Broad-spectrum sunscreen and limited sun exposure are imperative if you want to avoid poor healing and enjoy the best results. Some patients only need one treatment session to achieve their skin goals, while others need a series of treatments. Improvements will be noticeable after the first session and become more visible after the redness and swelling diminish. The final results will last for months or years, depending on your skin condition and the type of laser treatment you received.

smooth face