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The laser is used to reduce wrinkles and other minor skin imperfections, especially around the mouth and eyes, which are resistant to treatment with chemical peels and homecare. Chemical peels and homecare are offered by our aestheticians.
Laser
The word "laser" is an acronym, which stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A surgical laser emits a beam of light capable of removing unwanted tissue, such as wrinkled or otherwise imperfect skin. The laser vaporizes skin cells by emitting bursts of energy that is absorbed by the cell water. Laser light penetrates to a very precise, controlled depth, making the procedure safe and predictable, while reducing the risk of scarring or pigmentation problems.
Laser Resurfacing Initial Evaluation
At the initial consultation, your health history will be reviewed and the procedure you are interested in will be explained in great detail. Any alternative procedures, as well as the risks and benefits of surgery will be discussed. You will view before and after photographs of Dr. Lawton's patients, and all of your questions will be answered.
During the examination, the skin thickness, skin excess, wrinkling, fatty deposits and facial contours will be evaluated. You will have the opportunity to point out particular characteristics of your anatomy that you would like to improve or change.
After an extensive discussion, you and Dr. Lawton will arrive at the surgical plan that will best achieve your goals. It is our commitment that you leave this initial visit with a clear understanding of your surgical options, so you may make an informed decision. We are happy to answer any questions you may think of later by telephone, email, or at another private consultation. There is never an additional charge for these subsequent visits.
Surgery
Laser resurfacing is performed in our own private AAAASF Certified Class-C Outpatient Surgical Center. The procedure takes less than 1 hour. For this outpatient procedure, we utilize general intravenous anesthesia administered by an elite group of carefully selected, highly qualified, board certified anesthesiologists. The techniques employed are designed to provide a smooth, gentle anesthetic experience, and prevent postoperative nausea and eliminate postoperative pain.
Recovery
Rest is recommended after surgery. At home, you will have medications to ease the pain. We also prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. Surgical vitamins, arnica, and bromelain are used to reduce the swelling and bruising, and to speed your recovery.
We will see you in the office the day after surgery. By the fourth or fifth day, the discomfort should be significantly reduced. By this time, you should be feeling well enough to be back to most of your normal activities. You should be back to work within this first week.
We will see you in follow-up at 1 day, several times in the first 2 weeks, and then at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and every year thereafter. We will see you more frequently if necessary. There are never charges for follow-up visits.
Outcome
In most cases, only one treatment is needed. The initial redness fades in a few weeks to a light pink, which can be concealed with makeup. The discoloration usually disappears in one or three months. The goal of laser resurfacing is to enhance facial appearance. Expectations by the patient must be realistic, and results should be anticipated as improvements rather than total corrections. Results of the surgery depend on many factors such as the size, shape and location of the imperfection and the patient's heredity, age and general skin condition.
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