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Dr. Kent, a cosmetic surgeon in Naples, was first to purchase a carbon dioxide (CO2) skin-resurfacing laser.
The CO2 laser revolutionized skin resurfacing. Dr. Kent now uses the Silktouch® and Feathertouch® CO2 lasers.
Laser resurfacing treats the wrinkles that come with age and sun exposure. Laser resurfacing is safe and effective. Recovery times vary depending on the patient.
Laser resurfacing can be used to treat the entire face, or discreet areas such as around the mouth. Contrary to what you may have heard, laser resurfacing does not mean you can never go out into the sun again.
Laser Surgery FAQs:
What is laser surgery?
Laser surgery, also referred to as laser resurfacing and a laser peel, is a procedure which utilizes a carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser device to treat wrinkles associated with age and sun exposure. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the entire face or on smaller areas such as around the mouth.
Who is the best candidate for laser surgery?
Men and women who are physically healthy, realistic in their expectations and looking to improve the appearance of wrinkled facial skin may be good candidates for laser surgery.
What happens during a consultation for laser surgery?
During a consultation for laser surgery, you will have a one-on-one discussion with the surgeon about your goals. The face will be examined, a medical history taken, and your options discussed. All aspects of the laser surgery procedure will be explained including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the costs and the risks.
Where is the laser surgery procedure performed?
Laser surgery is often performed in a surgeon's office-based surgical facility though it may also take place in a hospital or outpatient surgery center.
What type of anesthesia is used for laser surgery?
Laser surgery is often performed using twilight anesthesia, though general anesthesia may be used for more extensive resurfacing.
How is the actual laser surgery procedure performed?
During the laser surgery procedure, the CO 2 laser device is carefully passed over the skin until the correct level is reached to make the wrinkle less visible. After treatment, the skin may be treated with a protective cream or ointment and it may be covered with a bandage.
How long does the actual laser surgery procedure last?
Depending upon the size of the area being treated, laser surgery can take anywhere form a few minutes to an hour to complete. More than one session may be required in some cases.
Is there much pain with the laser surgery procedure?
Patients may experience some mild discomfort after laser surgery but this can be controlled with prescription pain medication.
What is the recovery like after laser surgery?
Recovery from laser surgery will vary according to the individual patient. In general, however, some mild swelling may occur and can be controlled with ice packs. The skin can be pink or red for several weeks, and crusts will form on the treated area but these will fade in about ten days. Bandages are usually removed in about a week. Patients will need to protect the treated area from the sun for six to twelve months.
How much time will I need to take off from work after laser surgery?
Patients usually need to take about two weeks off from work after undergoing laser surgery.
What are the risks or complications associated with laser surgery?
The potential complications associated with laser surgery may include abnormal changes in skin color, adverse anesthesia reactions, burns or other laser-related injuries, cold sores, infection, and scarring.
Does insurance cover the cost of laser surgery?
Laser surgery performed for purely cosmetic purposes is typically not covered by insurance, though some degree of coverage may be available when used to treat scars or pre-cancerous skin growths. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.
How long do the results of laser surgery last?
The results of laser surgery are long lasting, though the procedure will not stop the aging process and new wrinkles may form as the skin ages.
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