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This is a before and after of a CO2 laser resurfacing patient of mine. She was 81 y/o at the time, and a former Mrs. America (you can see why, but probably not that year). This patient required 3 passes of the laser and was done under general anesthesia.
If you look closely, you can see the effect on the nose, the decrease of wrinkles on the upper lip, and the overall improvement of the skin.
So, yes, laser resurfacing can help a person's looks in many ways. It can:
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Minimize the appearance of scars, including acne scars
- Tighten sagging skin
- Reduce the appearance of sun damage, such as age spots and hyperpigmentation
Laser resurfacing works by removing the top layer of skin, which stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin. This new collagen and elastin help to plump up the skin and make it look smoother and younger.
There are two main types of laser resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative laser resurfacing is more aggressive and removes the entire outer layer of skin. (The above picture was the ablative type). Non-ablative laser resurfacing is less aggressive and only removes part of the outer layer of skin.
Ablative laser resurfacing is generally more effective than non-ablative laser resurfacing, but it also has a longer recovery time. Non-ablative laser resurfacing is a good option for people who want to improve their skin's appearance without a long recovery time.
The best type of laser resurfacing for you will depend on your individual goals and skin type. It is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine if laser resurfacing is right for you. And CO2 laser requires experience and expertise with the laser. If you are contemplating this, I would seek opinions from several plastic surgeons.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about laser resurfacing:
- It is not a one-time solution. You will likely need to have multiple treatments to achieve the desired results, although the patient above only had one treatment.
- It can be expensive. The cost of laser resurfacing will vary depending on the type of laser used, the size of the area treated, and your location.
- There are risks involved, such as infection, scarring, and changes in pigmentation.
Overall, laser resurfacing can be an effective way to improve your appearance. However, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding if it is right for you.
For other before and after results of my patients, click here.
