Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing, also known as laser peel, lasabrasion, and laser vaporization, is a facial rejuvenation procedure to reduce wrinkles and blemishes, tighten skin, and remove lesions (both benign and malignant). The procedure involves directing short and concentrated pulsating beams of light at the irregular skin surface. It removes the skin by vaporizing it layer-by-layer precisely. The laser beam removes the outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis. Then it heats the next layer, called the dermis, and stimulates collagen production resulting in a newer smooth layer of skin. The procedure may not suit you if you have excessive acne, a dark skin tone, deep wrinkles, or too much skin sagging.

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing
Why Laser Skin Resurfacing?
What are Concerns for Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Steps to getting your procedure
Cost of Procedure
Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors that perform Laser Skin Resurfacing procedures
Laser Skin Resurfacing

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing, also known as lasabrasion, laser peel, or laser vaporization, is a cosmetic procedure that uses short, concentrated laser beams to improve the skin's appearance. It is typically used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, sun damage, and scars.

During the procedure, a laser removes the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis, and heats the inner layer of the skin, called the dermis, which triggers the body's natural healing process and stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. As the skin heals, new skin cells are produced, which can improve the texture and appearance of the skin.

Laser skin resurfacing can improve a variety of skin concerns, including:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes, mouth, and forehead

  • Age spots, sun damage, and other discolorations caused by sun damage

  • The appearance of scars, including acne scars, surgical scars, and other types of scars

  • Uneven skin tone and texture

  • Enlarged pores, making them less visible

  • The appearance of stretch marks, especially if they are new

Laser skin resurfacing can help rejuvenate the skin due to collagen remodeling and re-epithelialization, leaving it looking smoother, tighter, and more youthful.

You may not be suitable for laser skin resurfacing if you have active acne, deep wrinkles, tan skin, or excessively sagging skin. 

What to expect during and after the procedure?

A laser skin resurfacing procedure is performed outpatient, using local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, or mouth may be treated individually, or a full-face lasabrasion may be performed. You can expect the following during and after laser skin resurfacing:

  • Local anesthesia is injected into the areas of the face to be treated. General anesthesia may be used in case of treating the entire face. A partial-face lasabrasion takes 30 to 45 minutes, and a full-face treatment takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • The area to be treated will be thoroughly cleaned.

  • After the laser resurfacing, a nonstick dressing is applied to the treatment areas for 24 hours. You will then clean the treated areas twice to five times daily with saline or diluted vinegar. Lotions or moisturizing creams are applied. The purpose of using lotions or creams is to prevent any scab formation. The areas generally heal in 5 to 21 days, depending on the extent of the treatment and the type of laser used.

  • Once the areas are healed, makeup may be worn to camouflage the pink-to-red color generally seen after laser skin resurfacing. Green-based makeups are an excellent choice for camouflage because they neutralize your red skin color as it heals. Oil-free makeups are recommended after laser skin resurfacing. The redness in the laser-treated areas generally fades in 2-3 months but, in some cases, may take up to a year to vanish. The redness of the treated area typically persists for a long time in people with blonde or red hair.

  • If you have a darker skin tone, you have a greater risk of healing with darker pigmentation (hyperpigmentation). A bleaching agent after laser skin resurfacing may be used to lighten your skin color. You should consult your doctor for an expert advice.

Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing

  • Which Laser Skin Resurfacing is Right for You?

    There are two main types of laser resurfacing: 

    1. CO2 laser

    2. Erbium laser


    Both of them vaporize the top damaged layer of the skin. The other form of laser resurfacing, fractionated CO2 laser, involves using the laser to drill multiple narrow columns of holes deep into the layers of your skin while keeping the surrounding skin remaining untreated and intact. CO2 laser

    Choosing the right laser skin resurfacing treatment involves considering several factors, such as the specific skin concern to be addressed, the severity of the problem, the patient's skin type and tone, and overall health and medical history. It is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to determine which laser treatment is appropriate for your specific needs and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

  • CO2 laser

    Doctors have used CO2 lasers for many years to treat various malignant and benign skin conditions. A newer generation of CO2 lasers uses very short pulsed beams (called ultrapulsed) or continuous light beams delivered in a scanning pattern. This type of laser very precisely removes thin layers of skin, posing minimal damage to the surrounding structures.

  • Fractional laser

    Fractional laser skin resurfacing, also known as Sellas fractional CO2, is a non-invasive treatment that uses a handheld device to deliver narrow laser beams onto the skin. The laser beam is divided into thousands of tiny light shafts, targeting a fraction of the skin at a time.

    Fractional laser treatment has bridged the gap between the ablative and non-ablative laser techniques used to treat sun-damaged and aging skin. Ablative laser treatments work primarily on the epidermis (surface skin cells). On the other hand, non-ablative treatments work solely on dermal collagen (the middle layer of skin). In contrast, fractional laser treatment works at both the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin.

    The most significant benefit of fractional laser treatment is that less skin is injured than in other laser treatments. While the most critical risk factor associated with fractional laser is that it penetrates deep into the tissue, posing a risk of complicated healing and scarring.

  • Erbium laser

    Erbium laser resurfacing requires local anesthesia only and is designed to remove superficial and relatively less deep lines and wrinkles on your skin. Besides the face, erbium laser can also be used on your hands, chest, or neck. Erbium laser is relatively safer and causes minimal injury to surrounding structures. Moreover, this laser poses fewer side effects than CO2 lasers, such as swelling, redness, and bruising; therefore, your recovery time should be shorter.

    Erbium laser resurfacing may be the right choice if you have a darker skin tone. Recovery time with erbium laser resurfacing is one whole week.

  • Non-ablative laser

    Nonablative laser resurfacing is a technique in which lasers are used to re-epithelialize the skin to improve pigment and texture without causing physical injury to the skin surface. 

    Like ablative resurfacing lasers, nonablative lasers are also of two types, fractionated (most common) and non-fractionated. Changed patient preferences and improved laser technology have led providers to prefer nonablative laser resurfacing techniques over primitive and more detrimental ablative techniques.

    Nonablative non-fractionated lasers create uniform thermal damage to the dermis while sparing the epidermis. They are best for treating mild-to-moderate photodamage and early signs of aging.

Why Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is a skin rejuvenation procedure performed to treat minor facial flaws with the help of laser beams. There are several reasons why someone may choose to undergo laser skin resurfacing. It helps reduce wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and blemishes. It also helps improve skin tone and tighten the skin.

Someone might choose laser skin resurfacing to rejuvenate the skin and restore a youthful appearance. As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity and firmness, which can lead to wrinkles and sagging. Laser skin resurfacing can stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that helps to maintain the skin's structure and elasticity, resulting in smoother, tighter skin.

Another reason to consider laser skin resurfacing is to address specific skin concerns, such as acne scars or sun damage. The laser can target the damaged areas of the skin, promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells and reducing the appearance of scars or discoloration.

Laser skin resurfacing can also be a good option for individuals looking for a non-invasive alternative to more extensive cosmetic procedures, such as facelifts or brow lifts. The procedure is typically performed outpatient, with minimal downtime or discomfort.

Listed below are many other reasons why someone would choose laser skin resurfacing:

  • Improves skin texture and tone
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Treats acne scars and other types of scars
  • Gets rid of age spots and sun damage
  • Stimulates collagen production for firmer, youthful-looking skin

What are Concerns for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing is a non-invasive alternative to minor skin flaws, such as sagging skin, acne scars, blemishes, uneven skin tone, or hyperpigmentation. However, despite its popularity and safety record, laser skin resurfacing has potential downsides that must be known well before the procedure. A detailed consultation with the service provider is very important in the entire process because it helps patients address their concerns openly and thoroughly to the practitioner and lets them discuss the pros and cons of the procedure. Which, in turn, helps patients make an informed decision about their physical concerns. If you know the concerns associated with laser resurfacing beforehand, handling them becomes more manageable. It is important to note that the concerns for laser skin resurfacing may vary depending on a person's skin type, health record, the type of laser resurfacing therapy chosen, and, most importantly, the experience of the person performing the procedure. Discussed below are the common concerns for laser skin resurfacing

  • Pain

    Pain and discomfort are common concerns following laser skin resurfacing, as the procedure involves removing the outer layers of skin to promote the growth of new, healthy tissue. While most patients experience only mild discomfort, some may experience more significant pain or tenderness, particularly in the days immediately following the procedure. To manage pain after laser skin resurfacing, patients may be advised to take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, and to apply cool compresses to the treated area. It is also essential to avoid exposing the skin to the sun or other heat sources, as this can exacerbate discomfort and delay healing. Patients should follow their doctor's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

  • Side Effects

    Despite its effectiveness, non-invasiveness, and popularity, potential side effects and risks associated with laser resurfacing may include permanent pigmentation (lightening or darkening) of the skin, scarring, and cold sores. Permanent changes in skin color, also known as hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, may occur due to the laser's impact on melanin — the pigment that gives skin its color. Scarring may also occur if the laser is mishandled or the skin is not adequately cared for after the procedure. Cold sores may be triggered in individuals who are prone to outbreaks. Patients should choose a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon to minimize the risk of these side effects. Additionally, they should carefully follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions and take steps to protect the skin during healing.

  • Itching, redness, and irritation

    One of the typical concerns associated with laser skin resurfacing is itching, redness, and irritation in the target site and surrounding tissues. These symptoms typically appear in the first few days after the procedure and may persist for several weeks. They are a natural part of the healing process as the skin regenerates. To manage itching, redness, and irritation, patients may be advised to use cool compresses or ice packs, avoid frequent exposure to heat or direct sunlight, and apply moisturizing creams or ointments as directed. over-the-counter antihistamines or prescription medications may be recommended to alleviate discomfort.

Steps to getting your procedure

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Cost of Procedure

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of ablative laser skin resurfacing is $2509, and that of non-ablative laser skin resurfacing is $1445. However, it is just a portion of the actual cost. Actual cost depends on certain other factors, such as pre-procedural and post-procedural medicines, dressings, laboratory tests (if needed), treatment facility charges, anesthesia provider's fees, and, most importantly, the service provider's experience. Experienced providers charge more for a procedure. Another thing that multiplies the procedure's cost is the location of the doctor's office. The best is to consult your practitioner's office to know the final fees. Moreover, laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure. Generally, insurance companies do not cover cosmetic procedures in their financing plan because they are considered elective and not deemed a medical emergency. Patients should carefully review all the related expenses and terms and conditions before undergoing the procedure to fully understand the total cost and associated fees.

Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure

Yes Doctor helps individuals get the laser skin resurfacing procedure by providing loans or credit lines that can be used to cover the cost of the procedure. We specialize in medical financing and offer various financing options, including interest-free loans, low-interest loans, and payment plans with flexible terms.

To apply for financing, patients can typically complete an online application or speak with a representative from the Yes Doctor to discuss their options. We will review the patient's credit history, income, and other factors to determine eligibility and offer financing options.

By working with Yes Doctor, patients can benefit from our Buy Now Pay Later policy. They can spread the cost of their laser skin resurfacing procedure over a longer time, making the procedure more affordable and accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

The recovery time for laser skin resurfacing can vary from patient to patient, depending on the extent and depth of the treatment, the type of laser used, and individual factors such as skin type and overall health. However, the recovery from ablative laser resurfacing, which removes the outer layer of skin, can take 2-4 weeks. On the other hand, recovery from non-ablative laser resurfacing (which targets the deeper layers of skin without removing the outer layer) may only take a few days to a week.
Laser skin resurfacing is generally safe for most skin types. However, people with certain skin types may require special consideration or caution when undergoing laser treatments. For example, patients with darker skin tones may be more prone to hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) after laser resurfacing, especially with ablative lasers. Therefore, these individuals may require specialized treatment protocols, such as using lower energy settings or combining laser resurfacing with other skin treatments. It's essential to follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal results.
In some cases, a single laser resurfacing session may be sufficient to achieve the desired results, particularly with non-ablative lasers that stimulate collagen production and skin renewal without removing the outer layers of skin. However, more extensive or deeper laser resurfacing treatments, such as ablative lasers, may require 3-5 sessions four weeks apart to achieve optimal results. Some patients may need a lot more sessions. Maintenance treatments once or twice a year also help maintain optimal results.
Yes, laser skin resurfacing can be combined with other cosmetic treatments to enhance its effectiveness or address multiple skin concerns simultaneously. Laser resurfacing can be combined with dermal fillers or Botox injections to address fine lines and wrinkles or other skin rejuvenation treatments such as chemical peels, micro-needling, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to enhance collagen production and skin renewal. Laser resurfacing can be combined with surgical procedures such as facelifts, or brow lifts to enhance the results and achieve better outcomes. It must be noted that combining Laser resurfacing with other treatments may multiply the complexity of the procedure and associated risk factors.