Q - What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, is a procedure which uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device to instantly vaporize the damaged top layer of skin in order to improve the appearance of facial lines, wrinkles, scars and uneven pigmentation. The entire face or just specific areas may be treated. The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Q - How do I know if I'm a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing?
If you are physically healthy, realistic in your expectations, and seeking an improvement in facial lines and other blemishes, you may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing. Pigmentation changes may be more likely to occur after treatment in patients with olive, brown or black skin.

Q - What will happen during a consultation for laser skin resurfacing?
During your consultation, the surgeon will talk to you about your goals and what you dislike about your skin. A thorough medical history will be taken and a routine examination performed. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the associated costs. Photographs may be also be taken of your face at the time of consultation.

Q - Where does laser skin resurfacing take place?
Laser skin resurfacing is most often performed in a surgeon's office-based facility, though the procedure may also take place in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital, especially for more extensive resurfacing procedures.

Q - What type of anesthesia will I receive for my laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Laser resurfacing is often performed with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia is sometimes used instead, particularly in cases involving more extensive resurfacing.

Q - How is laser skin resurfacing performed?
For the laser skin resurfacing procedure, an activated laser is passed over the skin until the wrinkle or other imperfection has been made less visible. Creams or ointments may be applied after treatment, along with a bandage.

Q - How long is the laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Laser skin resurfacing may take as a little as a few minutes when treating smaller areas to as much as an hour when treating the whole face. Multiple sessions are often required.

Q - How much pain can I expect after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Patients may experience some mild discomfort after the laser skin resurfacing procedure, and this can be alleviated with prescription pain medication.

Q - What should I expect of the recovery after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Some mild swelling can occur after the laser resurfacing treatment. Bandages applied after the procedure may be removed within five to ten days. It's common for crusts to appear on the treatment area but these will fade within about ten days. The skin can also appear red or pink for several weeks after treatment.

Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Normal activities, including work, can usually be resumed within about two weeks.

Q - How soon after my laser skin resurfacing procedure will I be able to exercise?
Any strenuous exercise should be postponed for about four to six weeks, and the skin will need to be protected from the sun for about six to twelve months.

Q - What risks are associated with laser skin resurfacing?
As with most cosmetic procedures, there are some risks that are associated with laser skin resurfacing and these may include abnormal changes in skin color, adverse anesthesia reactions, burns or other laser-related injuries, cold sores, infection, and scarring.

Q - Will my laser resurfacing procedure be covered by insurance?
Laser resurfacing procedure which are solely cosmetic in nature are generally not covered by insurance. When the procedure is performed for medical purposes, such as the treatment of a scar or pre-cancerous skin growth, some coverage may be available. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.

Q - Can I finance my laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.