Laser Resurface
Procedure using an ablative LASER to remove the surface layers of the skin in order to achieve a more youthful appearance.
Why have LASER resurfacing?
- Reduce facial lines caused by aging,sun damage,pollutants (smoking).
- Improve surface scars such as those caused by acne.
- Improve appearance of the skin that has not responded to good skin care.
- Provide rejuvenation of the face and improve self-confidence.
The desire to maintain a youthful appearance drives us to seek treatments that correct or slow down the signs of aging. Unfortunately, age, sunlight and pollutants(smoking) all contribute to the loss of collagen and elastin in the skin. With loss of the supporting elements of the skin and loss of subcutaneous fat, wrinkles appear in the skin and with contraction of the facial muscles these are enhanced.
The typical changes that occur as a result of aging result from loss or damage to all the tissues of the face. Hence, facial rejuvenation requires treatments aimed at restoring the tissues to give a healthier more youthful look.
The options include:
- Skin Care;- Obagi
- Obagi Blue Peel
- Fat Grafting
The LASER removes the damaged surface of the skin in an accurately controlled procedure and the underlying tissues (dermis) can be stimulated to produce new collagen. With healing of the new skin a more youthful appearance is achieved. LASER treatment can be used in conjunction with BOTOX to enhance the results in the treatment of facial wrinkles and lines.
A clear understanding of your concerns and careful examination of your face is vital in order to achieve the optimum result following treatment. The type of treatment required to achieve the best result for you will depend on your goals and will be discussed at the time of your Consultation.
Remember treatment will not change you or solve any life crises, but should boost your self-confidence and enjoyment of life.
Laser Resurface Operation Details
PRE-OPERATIVE
- Which wrinkles - Laser resurfacing can give excellent results in treating fine superficial wrinkles; around mouth,eyes & cheeks. Dynamic lines (forehead,cheek,movement associated) respond less well with approximately 50% improvement.
- Prior treatment - With chemical peels or dermabrasion must be recorded. Laser treatment contraindicated with recent or current use of ISOTRETINOIN.
- Cold sores - Any history is important. Will require a course of ZOVIRAX.
- Sun/Sunbeds - Avoid for 4 weeks prior to surgery.
- Smoking - Essential to stop at least 2 weeks before surgery and at least 3 weeks after.
- Drugs - Avoid Aspirin/Ibuprofen type drugs for 3 weeks prior to surgery.
- Omnilux - Is recommended to prepare your skin before/after surgery. One of our skin care specialist will arrange your appointment for you.
OPERATION
- Anaesthetic - Local or General
- Hospital stay - Either daycase or overnight
POST-OPERATIVE
- Dressing - Light dressing applied in theatre.
- 1st 24hrs - Cool water and aqueous cream only. - Keep moist at all times.
- Diet - Soft foods / drinks with straw.
- Exercise - Avoid strenuous exercise for 3 weeks.
- Sleeping - Head up. Sun - Avoid for 3 months,use sunblock(SPF20-30) after 1 week. - Use non-perfumed moisturizing cream. Our skin care nurses will provide some critical care cream for after your procedure. - Concealing make-up can be used; Mineral makeup is advised.
- Sunbed - Avoid for 3 months.
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS
- Pain - Mild to Moderate discomfort expected. -Avoid Aspirin/Ibuprofen type analgesics.
- Swelling & oozing - Especially around eyes and neck - lasts for 5 - 7 days
- Skin redness - Bright red for first week. - Pink for 3 - 4 weeks. - Normal skin colour by 3 months.
- Skin darkening - More common with olive or dark skin tones - may last for 3 - 6 Months. - Can worsen with sun exposure.
- Skin lightening - Rarely permanent. - Darken or repigment after 3 - 6 months. - Scarring is rare - Avoided by careful attention to healing in first 2 weeks. - May occur secondary to infection or reactivation of cold sores.
- Infection - Rare. - Avoided by good skin care and antibiotics as indicated.
- Ectropion - Downward drooping of the lower eyelid can occur with treatment in this area,especially if previous lower blepharoplasty.
- Acne or milia - Flare-up can occur postoperatively.
