Laser skin rejuvenation involves vaporizing the upper layers of the skin to a desired and controlled depth, using energy waves emitted from the laser.
Compared to other methods used for this purpose, laser skin rejuvenation offers several advantages, such as minimal to no sensitivity, very little or no bleeding, and significantly less discomfort after the procedure. Despite these benefits, it is not a suitable technique for everyone. For some patients, alternative methods like chemical peels may be more appropriate.
The fundamental principle of all skin rejuvenation procedures is the same: to exfoliate the damaged upper layer of the skin, allowing new cells to build a smoother, younger-looking skin surface during the healing process. In the initial stage, the damaged upper layer of the skin is exfoliated with the help of laser beams. Since this method is relatively new, long-term results, such as those spanning 5-10 years, are not yet available. Recent studies indicate that it yields similar results to dermabrasion and chemical peeling. It has also been shown that new laser technology allows for much better repair of skin layers. New scientific publications consistently highlight the advantages and superiority of this technique.
Another important consideration when evaluating different skin rejuvenation methods is the healing time of the skin. Generally, the deeper the procedure, the longer the recovery period. Healing occurs more quickly with superficial laser applications and chemical peels. However, to achieve the results obtained from a deep procedure, superficial applications would require many more repetitions.
Suitable Candidates for Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Both men and women of all ages can benefit from skin rejuvenation, but ideal candidates typically have non-oily, fair skin.
For patients with olive, dark, or oily skin, there is a risk if proper skin preparation and treatment are not administered. Your surgeon will conduct an assessment and provide various recommendations for laser treatment to prevent pigmentation issues.
This technique may also be unsuitable for individuals who have used Accutane within the last 6 to 18 months, are prone to poor scarring, or have an active skin infection in the treatment area.
While laser skin rejuvenation aims to improve your appearance, it should not be viewed as a magic wand, nor should it be assumed that this procedure will prevent aging. Characteristic facial expression lines will reappear over time, though they may be less pronounced than before. To maintain the results achieved with laser treatment, sun protection, mild chemical peels, or special creams will be beneficial. It is advisable to openly discuss your expectations with your aesthetic surgeon before this procedure.
In moderate or superficial rejuvenation procedures, the laser is limited to the papillary dermis and epidermis layers. In deeper rejuvenation, the upper layers of the reticular dermis are also included in the process. For the treatment of acne and lines, the depth of the laser is adjusted to achieve the desired outcome. When performed by an experienced aesthetic surgeon who has received all necessary training, the risk of complications with Carbon Dioxide laser applications is low and mild. However, each individual’s unique physical and hereditary characteristics prevent precise prediction of results.
Risks of Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Damage caused by the heat generated by laser energy, poor scarring, lightening or darkening of skin color are general risks of laser skin rejuvenation. Herpes outbreaks and infections occur rarely. To minimize this risk, your aesthetic surgeon will recommend various protective medications to start using about a week before the procedure. If you occasionally experience cold sores on your lips, please inform your doctor.
In cases of abnormal wound healing, pigmentation, or scar formation, additional treatments may be necessary. All these risks can be mitigated when the procedure is performed by an experienced and well-trained aesthetic surgeon.
Pre-Operative Consultation
The most crucial point for the patient is that the chosen aesthetic surgeon has received the necessary training and gained experience in laser applications. During your initial consultation, be open with your doctor about your expectations and do not hesitate to ask questions. Naturally, your doctor should be equally transparent with you.
At this stage, your doctor will evaluate many different factors that could negatively affect the outcome of the procedure. Skin injuries, past medications, and diagnosed and treated skin conditions are some of these factors.
Skin Rejuvenation Procedure
Laser skin rejuvenation, which can last from a few minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the content of the procedure and the size of the treated area, may require several sessions in cases of deep surface irregularities. During the procedure, the laser is moved back and forth over the skin surface until scars and wrinkles become less noticeable. After the procedure is completed, the area is covered with a transparent bandage and a protective cream or ointment.
Post-Treatment
Moderate swelling and discomfort are highly probable after the procedure, but these issues can be managed with ice packs and medication. If a bandage has been applied, it will be changed a few days after the procedure, and after two weeks, once the bandages are removed, a skin ointment will be applied to your skin. At this stage, your doctor will provide information on how to wash and care for your skin. One important post-treatment consideration is not to pick at the scabs that form in the treated area, to prevent poor scarring and infection. Generally, the scabs will have completely dried by the tenth day, but redness may persist for several weeks.
Preparation for Laser Treatment
A pre-program may be recommended to prepare your skin for laser treatment, tailored to your specific needs. Your doctor will provide advice on post-treatment care during the healing process. You will also be informed about long-term care and what to pay attention to in order to ensure the lasting effect of the procedure. Due to the sedative medications administered during the procedure, you may need to arrange for someone to take you home afterward.
Locations for Laser Treatment
This procedure can be performed in an outpatient clinic, the surgeon's private office, or a hospital. From a financial and social perspective, performing the procedure in an outpatient clinic is the most advantageous. However, if extensive skin rejuvenation or surgical procedures are required, a hospital might be a more suitable choice.
Anesthesia
Laser skin rejuvenation, especially when applied to the face, typically involves sedation and local anesthesia. You will be awake but calm during the procedure and will experience very minor discomfort. For more comprehensive applications, your doctor may opt for general anesthesia.
Return to Normal
Your skin will acquire a bright pink to red color for several weeks, and after two weeks, the discoloration can be concealed with makeup. However, it may take up to six months for the slight pinkness to fade and the skin to return to its normal color. In very rare cases, some patients' skin develops an inexplicable sensitivity to makeup products they used before the procedure. In such situations, it may be necessary to switch previously used makeup products to less irritating ones or to wait until the skin's sensitivity subsides.
Let Us Call You
We will contact you immediately upon receiving your message. Required fields are marked with *.
