With so many surgical and nonsurgical treatments designed to resurface the skin, choosing the one that’s right for you can be a challenge.
In some cases, technological advances can improve the technique to help your surgeon achieve a new level of success. Laser skin rejuvenation is one of the most cutting-edge procedures for reducing wrinkles and other skin irregularities. A popular choice for those seeking skin rejuvenation, laser skin resurfacing may be the right treatment you need to improve your own visible skin concerns.
About Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing, a unique technology-based skin treatment, is primarily used to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections on the face. During this procedure, recently developed laser technologies are used by today’s plastic surgeons for a much higher level of precision and intensity.
Laser skin resurfacing is based on the use of light beams, which are delivered directly to the skin’s trouble spots in short, concentrated bursts. These beams will remove damaged skin cells in an exacting manner, layer by layer until the desired depth is achieved. Many common minor flaws can be eliminated permanently by this procedure, including fine lines, wrinkles, scars from acne and chickenpox, surgically damaged skin, age spots, sun damaged skin, liver spots, discoloration, warts, birthmarks, and also enlarged oil glands surrounding the nose.
Two Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing
Hillelson-Whipple Clinic Plastic Surgery and Orthopaedics offers both tissue destructive (Sciton) and non-tissue destructive (Clear + Brilliant Permea) treatments to patients. The Sciton tissue destructive therapy uses a laser beam at 2940 nm wavelength, delivered through a computer-controlled device to treat either the full surface of the face or fractional areas where damage is present. For either procedure, the laser beam scans and removes the top layer of the skin. The body will then replace this layer with healthy skin, with all surface damage gone for good. Tissue destructive treatments can range from shallow to much deeper depths for problems that are harder to eliminate.
The Clear + Brilliant Permea non-tissue destructive treatment uses an advanced technology to directly treat the targeted areas of the face. It uses the patented Intelligent Optical Tracking System and a special handpiece to deliver the treatment, which is gentle but effective. The procedure is then followed by a topical antioxidant serum to create better tone, vibrancy, and overall appearance.
The Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing
Because of the unique approach it uses to correct skin flaws, laser skin resurfacing reduces the risks of unwanted side effects. Hyperpigmentation, for example, is a common problem after acne scars are removed; laser skin resurfacing does not involve bleaching or other pigmentation adjustments, so patients will not see changes in skin color.
The laser skin resurfacing approach offers another benefit as well. While it may seem harsh to remove skin layers from the face, the process is quite healthy for the skin in general. Removing dead skin cells from the surface allows the healthy cells below to thrive and grow. Many skin rejuvenating procedures use methods to remove these skin cells, but laser skin resurfacing can do more than just remove them. As the laser works to remove the outer layers of the skin, the powerful beams of light will also warm and stimulate the cells beneath. This encourages the dermis to produce new collagen, helping it to become firm, smooth, and more youthful. Eventually, this skin will be the newly refreshed outer layer of skin.
Before Choosing Laser Skin Resurfacing
If you’re considering laser skin resurfacing to improve the appearance of your skin and eliminate imperfections, you should think about a few different things before you sit down to consult with a plastic surgeon. To be prepared for your meeting, think about your skin type or what you believe it is, as well as the primary reason that you are seeking laser skin resurfacing. Many patients choose this treatment to look younger, achieve smoother skin, or to eradicate an old scar, for example. Your doctor will use this information to determine the treatment and laser type most suitable for your skin type and your needs. Before planning your surgery, you should consider whether you will be able to dedicate proper recovery time following your procedure. You may need more than one treatment, which your doctor will discuss with you as well.
At the time of your consultation, expect the discussion to include information on full coverage and fractional approaches, the amount of treatments you may need and how much downtime, and what results you can expect for yourself. Once you’ve decided to receive laser skin resurfacing treatments, planning for your procedure will be quick and easy, thanks to the guidance of your plastic surgeon.
Book Your Laser Skin Resurfacing Consultation
Your laser skin resurfacing results are largely contingent on your choice of a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. To begin your consultation process for this rejuvenating treatment, contact Hillelson-Whipple Clinic Plastic Surgery and Orthopaedics to book your appointment with the Medi-Spa clinicians. For other treatments and surgical procedures, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ruth Hillelson, Director of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. She has an extensive background in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, as well as a commitment to the latest medical techniques and technologies.
Dr. Terry Whipple, the Director of Orthopaedics and Fitness at Hillelson-Whipple Clinic, provides his patients with a range of other procedural options to help with fitness, pain management, and other health concerns. With both Dr. Hillelson and Dr. Whipple involved, Hillelson-Whipple Clinic is a unique clinic for patients seeking procedures and treatments of all varieties. Contact their office, located at 9900 Independence Park Drive in Richmond, Virginia, by calling (804) 290-0060 to schedule your first consultation today.