The Effect
Smooth the face and smooth fine wrinkles using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device that treats layers of damaged skin. Softens lines around the eyes and mouth and minimizes facial scars and unevenly pigmented areas.
The Procedure
Sometimes called "laser peel," a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. Laser resurfacing is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. It is also effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Often, the procedure is done in conjunction with another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.
Best candidates
This treatment is appropriate for the patient who has minimal to moderate facial wrinkles, blotchiness or dark under eye circles.
Risks
All surgery carries risk, and you should be fully aware of the medical risks associated with this procedure before you consent to surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation, and you are encouraged to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand. More details about your consultation.
You will be required to sign a consent form before surgery stating that you have been informed of the risks involved; that you understand those risks; and that you accept those risks. This is standard hospital protocol and surgery will not be performed if you do not sign.. More details about the required forms.
It is your obligation to inform your surgeon of key medical information that may influence the outcome of your surgery or may increase the level of risk. These include medications you are taking, history of disease, medical complications, etc.
Risks and risk rates vary from patient to patient depending on a range of factors. No two people are alike. The risks listed below are possible risks associated with this type of surgery and are mentioned regardless of how remote the possibility:
Temporary swelling, discomfort. Lightening of treated skin. Acute sun sensitivity. Increased sensitivity to makeup. Pinkness or redness in skin that may persist for up to 6 months.
More details about the risks involved in skin treatment.
Treatment
Time required: A few minutes to 1 hour. May require more than 1 session. Usually outpatient, unless combined with other surgical procedures that require hospitalization.
Anesthesia: Local, numbing spray, or general.
Side effects
Temporary swelling, discomfort. Lightening of treated skin. Acute sun sensitivity. Increased sensitivity to makeup. Pinkness or redness in skin that may persist for up to 6 months.
Recovery time:
Back to work: 2 weeks.
More strenuous activities: 4 to 6 weeks.
Fading of redness: about 3 months.
Return of pigmentation/sun exposure: 6 to 12 months.
Please note that this information should be used only as a guide to your treatment. All specifics will be discussed with your Physician at your consultation.
If you have questions that are not answered in this website, then please contact us.
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