Laser resurfacing is generally referred to as a "laser
peel". Dr. Burt Greenberg utilizes either the Erbium or the CO2
(carbon dioxide) laser for treatment, depending on your skin condition
and type. Laser resurfacing is most commonly used to minimize the appearance
of fine lines, especially around the mouth and eyes. However, it is
also effective in treating facial scars from acne or areas of uneven
pigmentation. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or
in specific regions. Often, Dr. Burt Greenberg uses the Erbium laser
in conjunction with other cosmetic operations such as, face-lifts or
eyelid surgery. Dr. Burt Greenberg is certified in the use of Erbium
and CO2 laser treatments and has a number of state-of-the-art laser
units to effectively treat a variety of skin-related ailments.
Laser resurfacing offers a number of advantages over other resurfacing
methods. Specifically, there is little, if any, bleeding and less post-operative
discomfort. The laser offers precision in resurfacing, unlike the use
of a chemical peel with broad spectrum absorption. However, all resurfacing
treatments work essentially the same way. First, the outer layers of
damaged skin are stripped away and then, new cells develop, forming
a smoother, tighter, younger looking, skin surface.
In many cases, facial wrinkles form in localized areas near the eyes
or around the mouth. The laser can be precisely controlled to target
those specific areas. Patients with olive skin, brown skin, or black
skin are at increased risk for pigment change with laser peels. Individuals
who have taken Accutane in the past year are prone to scarring and those
with active skin infections within the treatment area may not be appropriate
candidates for this procedure.
Planning your procedure
Complications with laser resurfacing are infrequent and
usually minor. However, because individuals vary greatly in their anatomy,
their physical reactions, and their healing abilities, the outcome is
never completely predictable. Risks associated with laser resurfacing
include: burns, or other injuries from the heat of the laser energy,
scarring, obvious lightening or darkening of the treated skin, and the
possible activation of the herpes virus infection resulting in cold
sores around the lips and other areas of the face.
During your initial consultation, all risk factors, benefits, and complications
are discussed with Dr. Burt Greenberg. Your medical history is discussed
and a routine examination with photography is performed. Dr. Greenberg
will prescribe a pre-treatment regimen to prepare the skin for resurfacing
and give you a printed, home-care protocol list for post-laser treatment.
In addition, Dr. Burt Greenberg has a licensed aesthetician working
with him in the office two days a week. She can also help prepare your
facial skin for the laser treatment and recommend protection after the
laser treatment.
The procedure
Generally, Dr. Burt M. Greenberg will perform laser treatment
in his office setting with either local anesthesia (Lidocaine) with
intravenous sedations or a light general anesthetic administered by
his board-certified anesthesiologist. The Great Neck Cosmetic Surgery
and Laser Facility is accredited at the highest level ("C"
level) by the American Association of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities
(AAAASF). Laser resurfacing is
a relatively quick procedure taking usually less than one hour to perform.
The areas that are treated with laser are then covered with Aquaphor
or other healing emollients for the length of the healing process.
After your procedure
For greater comfort and to reduce any edema, cold compresses
should be used for the first 12-24 hours. Laser resurfacing can help
enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't completely
remove all facial flaws or prevent you from aging. Lines that occur
as a result of natural movements of the face, such as: smiling, squinting,
blinking, talking, chewing, will inevitably recur. Dr. Burt Greenberg
recommends preserving your results by protecting yourself from sun exposure
and by using light chemical peels and medicated facial creams as maintenance
treatments.
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