Laser Treatment

Common Questions

What is a laser?

The term laser is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Lasers are instruments which convert electrical energy into light and electromagnetic energy for a variety of purposes. In the treatment of skin problems, different lasers are used for different purposes. Lasers have been used by physicians since the 1960's, however generalized acceptance has occurred in the last 5-10 years with the advent of more precise lasers. The most recent lasers have been improved to the point where they now offer significant advantages over standard techniques used in the treatment of a variety of dermatologic problems.

What is skin resurfacing?

For years doctors and patients have searched for an ideal method for removing wrinkles, improving scars and rejuvenating aging skin. Until recently, chemical peels and dermabrasion have been widely used in an attempt to help aged, sun damaged or scarred facial skin. Unfortunately, these procedures have many disadvantages, such as scarring, pigment loss, bleeding and failure to achieve consistent acceptable outcomes. Laser resurfacing is the latest scientific breakthrough and has proven to be superior to other procedures used to correct facial scars, remove wrinkles and rejuvenate skin.

What conditions are treatable with cutaneous laser resurfacing?

The following list shows some conditions treatable with laser resurfacing:

• Facial wrinkles
• Lip lines, crows feet and periocular wrinkles
• Acne scarring and post surgery scarring
• Facial aging changes and facial pigment abnormalities
• Keloid or hypertrophic scarring

In addition the laser is specifically designed to resurface skin so its most impressive results are in its role in removing wrinkles, improving facial scars, in particular those resulting from acne or chicken pox and in general, the rejuvenation of aged and sun damaged facial skin.

What are the risks of the procedure?

All laser surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. The risk of scarring using the CO2 laser is quite small and probably less than 1%. The most common side effects of the procedure are superficial increased pigmentation at the site of the treatment. Pain, some bleeding and the possibility of infection are possible, but are minimized by proper surgical techniques and proper postoperative care. The surgical site must be protected from sunlight for a period of 6 weeks after the procedure.

How do I know if my condition will respond to the laser?

Clinical studies done with the laser have shown it to be remarkably effective in treating facial lines and wrinkles, acne scarring and in the overall rejuvenation of sun damaged skin. Other conditions treatable with this laser include hypertrophic keloid scarring, cutaneous tumors both benign and malignant, recalcitrant warts and many other disorders known to be treated with conventional CO2 laser therapy.

What does the skin look like following treatment?

Laser resurfacing leaves a wound which looks like an abrasion. This will heal in 7-14 days leaving the skin pink. Over the next few weeks to months this pink skin will fade back to its normal color.

How is the procedure performed?

Depending on the specific condition being treated, patients are generally asked to arrive an hour before their scheduled surgery. Sometimes we use local anesthetic injected into the skin. For large procedures, one may choose to employ a general anesthetic. In this situation, we employ the services of a board certified anesthesiologist.

What wound care is necessary after the procedure?

After the laser procedure, an antibiotic and sterile dressing will be applied. Most wounds require simple cleansing with water compresses and the application of Polysporin or Bacitracin ointment.

Where is the laser procedure performed?

Laser surgery is done in a operating suite. The suite is equipped with the latest technology for monitoring patients and with all the necessary equipment to perform these laser procedures safely.

Who should perform laser surgery?

Laser surgery should be performed by personnel who have received special training in laser techniques. Your doctor has received extensive training in cutaneous resurfacing using the CO2 laser. Laser surgery should only be performed by physicians who have received training in the use of lasers. Your physician has received specialized training in the use of the laser for cutaneous resurfacing procedures.

Are there any preoperative instructions that I should follow?

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs should be avoided for a period of 1 week before laser treatment. If you are taking anticoagulants or have blood clotting problems, please let your physician know. One should especially avoid excessive sun exposure or tanning during the 2 weeks before treatment since pigment may interfere with the efficacy of the treatment.

Are there any long-term risks from the laser surgery?

There is no evidence that CO2 infrared energy 10,6000 nanometers has any untoward effects on the body. Carbon dioxide laser surgery has been performed for the past 20 years and no long-term side effects have been noted.

What are the costs of the various procedure?

Depending on the procedure, costs for laser surgery, operating room fee, and anesthesia will be quoted to you prior to treatment. The anesthesiologist's fee will be quoted, but will be paid separately to the anesthesiologist. All fees for cosmetic CO2 laser resurfacing are payable prior to the procedure being confirmed.

What results can I expect from my procedure?

Laser surgery is a spectacular and exciting field, but it has its limitations. Unknown variables inherent in each lesion and each patient make it difficult to predict the final results of their procedures. Every attempt will be made to achieve an optimum result for you. However, your doctor cannot guarantee complete success in the treatment of a specific lesion, be it a birthmark, vascular or pigmented lesion or tattoo.

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