Laser skin resurfacing can address a multitude of concerns patients have about the quality and youthful appearance of their skin. But how do you know which laser is right for you? Double board certified plastic surgeon and laser specialist Dr. Adam Stein can help you understand what laser treatment will best uncover a healthier, more youthful complexion.
How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?
Stein Plastic Surgery stands behind the Sciton® Erbium laser for laser skin resurfacing because it offers dramatically successful results for the least risk. Sciton® Erbium’s computer-controlled 2940 nm wavelength erases visible signs of aging and skin damage caused by the sun and environmental toxins. It is the most sophisticated laser of its kind, giving Dr. Stein unparalleled precision and accuracy in treating your problem areas while leaving surrounding tissues untouched. The Sciton® Erbium laser:
- Reverses sun damage
- Reduces wrinkles, even in delicate areas around the mouth and eyes
- Minimizes acne scars
- Evens skin tone and texture
- Diminishes age spots
- Stimulates collagen production for firmer, more youthful skin
The Sciton® Erbium laser targets the water in the skin to remove the outermost layer of the epidermis and stimulate collagen fiber production in the dermis. There are three treatment depths available: superficial, fractional, and deep. For some patients, having more shallow treatments rather than fewer deep treatments is more ideal for recovery times. Patients specifically concerned about extensive recovery may opt for the MicroLaserPeel® with Dr. Stein, which achieves remarkable results with only 3-4 days recovery.
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you’re concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, scarring, hyperpigmentation, age spots, sun damage, or texture and tone issues, the Sciton® Erbium laser resurfacing treatment may be right for you. If you’re generally healthy, don’t smoke, and can realistically be pleased with the results, you could be an ideal candidate. Schedule a consultation at Stein Plastic Surgery to get started.
What is the Treatment Like?
The depth of your laser resurfacing treatment determines whether you receive topical anesthetic, local anesthetic, or a sedative to keep you relaxed and minimize pain. Your treatment may take between 30 minutes to 2 hours. You may feel a mild-to-moderate burning sensation with the laser energy, and the deeper your treatment, the more passes may be required over your skin’s surface. Minor redness, swelling, peeling, and crusting after your treatment is perfectly normal. The deeper your treatment, the more recovery your skin needs, typically within 3-10 days. If you’ve opted for MicroLaserPeel®, the redness and swelling should subside by day 3 and you can cover them with makeup.
What Results Can I Expect?
Visible improvement can be seen as early as 1-2 weeks following your treatment, with continued and accumulating improvement for up to 1 year. These results may last for several years, provided you commit to protecting your skin from the effects of the sun and environment with diligent use of sunscreen. By peeling away damaged layers of the skin, prompting new collagen growth, and paving the way for new skin cells, you’re restoring your skin to a more youthful condition. Your skin doesn’t just seem younger; it is younger. It will do a better job at allowing fewer UV rays and irritants to penetrate as deeply into your skin, thereby slowing the aging process. It does not entirely prevent future aging, but your skin’s improved condition, smoother tone and texture, and minimized damage of the outer layers are the marks of healthy skin, not just youth and beauty. The boost in your self-confidence and appearance can make all the difference.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about laser skin resurfacing? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stein at Stein Plastic Surgery based in Raleigh, NC today! Simply fill out the form on this page or give us a call at (919) 261-7099.
*Individual results may vary.