Skin Resurfacing

Laser Skin Resurfacing New Jersey

Laser skin resurfacing is one of today’s most popular anti-aging techniques for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, pore size, scars, and discolored skin. It is popular mostly because it is gentler and safer than chemical peels and dermabrasion.

Laser skin resurfacing also can stimulate collagen production, which increases the elasticity of your skin. Summit Medical Group uses the most technologically advanced lasers available to improve small and large areas of the skin.

Laser skin resurfacing is not suitable for people with darker skin, including olive, suntanned, or black skin. This limit is because the procedure causes lightened areas that often need 6 to 9 months to return to their normal color (or pigmentation). People who are prone to scarring, have psoriasis or related conditions, or who take certain medications also may not be good candidates for the procedure.

Your Consultation

A consultation for laser skin resurfacing includes a discussion about your expectations and concerns. Your surgeon will review your medical history, carefully examine your skin, and let you know if you are a candidate for skin resurfacing. He or she will then take pictures of the areas to be treated and thoroughly explain the procedure to you.

The Procedure

Before your procedure, your surgeon may prescribe special creams, lotions, or gels to prepare your skin for treatment. You also might be given an oral medication to prevent complications such as infections and viruses.

Laser skin resurfacing is performed in our ambulatory surgery center. To ensure your comfort, topical anesthesia, local anesthesia, or intravenous sedation will be used during your procedure. If you are going to receive treatment for deep layers of your skin, you might be given a general anesthetic. The anesthesia you receive is based on the type of laser and level of treatment required.

During the procedure, the laser is directed precisely over the treatment area and repeated as necessary. Superficial and deep layers of skin are targeted to remove old skin and generate the growth of new skin. Many patients suggest the laser feels like a rubber band that is snapped against the skin.

Laser skin resurfacing can last a few minutes to 2 hours, depending on the amount of resurfacing you need. Your surgeon may use more than 1 type of laser. Although 1 procedure often is enough, 2 or more sessions are sometimes needed to reach deeper areas and achieve the best results.

Recovery and Results

Your doctor will likely coat your skin with a protective, antibiotic ointment after your treatment. Sometimes, a dressing or bandage is needed to protect the treated area.

You may experience some swelling and mild discomfort that will resolve within a few days. There is rarely any bleeding after the procedure, but your skin may develop a red, crusty appearance that can last up to 10 days. To prevent scars, do not peel the crusty skin, but let it slough off on its own. As new skin grows, it will probably look bright pink and slightly shiny for several weeks. When the healing process is complete, you will have a smooth and glowing layer of skin.

After laser resurfacing:

• Avoid the sun, and always use a sunscreen outside
• Do not scrub your skin
• Avoid harsh cleansers, astringents, exfoliants, and excessively hot water

The results of laser skin resurfacing usually last for years and often are permanent. Most patients express great satisfaction with the improved, rejuvenated look of their skin after the procedure.

Call Summit Medical Group today at 908-277-8759 to make an appointment or for more information about how laser skin resurfacing can give you smoother, younger looking skin.