Laser Skin Resurfacing

Dr. Brock Lanier, MD, FACS  |   OncoPlastic Surgery in Newport Beach

How It Works

Laser skin resurfacing works by using concentrated laser beams to precisely remove the damaged outer layers of skin, while simultaneously heating the underlying skin to stimulate collagen production. This process helps reduce wrinkles, scars, and uneven skin texture by encouraging the growth of new, smoother, and more evenly toned skin. The laser can be adjusted precisely to different depths and intensities, allowing for customized treatments.

Laser Skin Resurfacing: at a glance

  • This is usually considered a deep treatment, but laser procedures can range a lot - from extremely deep and intense to very, very light. The deeper treatments tend to produce more substantial and dramatic results, but are associated with longer healing times.

  • Non-surgical, performed in the clinic.

  • Usually 30 to 60 minutes. Laser procedures can vary from not painful at all to very painful. The deeper laser treatments are typically given with at least topical numbing cream and sometimes with numbing injections (like at the dentist office).

  • Laser procedures are considered very safe, especially if performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Redness, swelling, itching, peeling, and discomfort are common temporary side effects. Complications are rare but can occur.

    • Skin discoloration: This can include both hyperpigmentation (darkening) and hypopigmentation (lightening) of the treated area.

    • Infection: There's a slight risk of bacterial infection after the procedure.

    • Scarring: While extremely rare, scarring is possible - especially with very deep treatments.

    • Reactivation of cold sores: If you have a history of cold sores, they may reactivate around the mouth after treatment. This can be prevented with medication.

  • At home. Downtime will depend on the intensity and exact type of laser treatment. Recovery can range from 3-7 days for a lighter treatment to 10-14 days for a deep treatment.

  • During the healing period you’ll need to rest by avoiding strenuous exercise - think staycation. You’ll be able to perform your everyday activities (eating, bathing, light chores). Walking around your neighborhood (10-15 minutes) at an easy pace is encouraged. It will be important to avoid direct sun exposure and wear sun protection.

  • Depending on the exact laser, you can notice an initial improvement in a few days or weeks after the procedure. The most significant improvement happens over time as your skin continues to produce new collagen. It can take up to 3-6 months to see the full results after laser skin resurfacing.

  • Depending on a patient’s individual concerns, this treatment can be combined with many other options including Botox, fillers, and BroadBand Light (BBL).

Keep in mind this is general information about a typical or usual experience. Individual experiences can vary.

Treatment Areas & Concerns

The face, neck, chest, and hands are the areas most commonly treated with laser skin resurfacing.

What are the benefits and risk of laser resurfacing?

Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing offers several potential benefits, including a reduction in the appearance of:

  • fine lines and wrinkles,

  • age spots,

  • sun damage,

  • acne scars.

By stimulating collagen production, it can also improve skin texture and tone, producing a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.

Risks of Laser Skin Resurfacing

While generally safe, laser skin resurfacing carries some potential risks. These can include temporary side effects like redness, swelling, and crusting. More serious risks, though less common, may include changes in skin color (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), scarring, and infection. In rare cases, cold sores may reactivate in individuals with a history of the condition.

Who is it for?

Laser skin resurfacing may be a good option for individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the procedure, and are bothered by fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, acne scars, or uneven skin texture. It is commonly requested by both men and women in all age groups.

How is it performed?

  • The laser skin resurfacing is performed in the comfort of the clinic.

  • Before the procedure, the treatment area is cleaned.

  • Depending on the depth and intensity, patients may not need any anesthesia, or they may benefit from topical numbing cream or an injection of numbing medicine.

  • Depending on the area of treatment, it usually takes 30-60 minutes to perform.

After your treatment…

After the procedure, the treated area may be red, swollen, and slightly crusty (depending on the depth of laser treatment). Cooling compresses and moisturizing creams are applied to soothe the skin. It is essential to protect the treated area from the sun with sunscreen and avoid harsh skincare products.

Recovery & Results

At home. Downtime will depend on the intensity and exact type of laser treatment. Recovery can range from 2-3 days for a lighter treatment to more than 10-14 days for a deeper treatment.

Depending on the exact laser, you can notice an initial improvement in a few days or weeks after the procedure.

The most significant improvement happens over time as your skin continues to produce new collagen. It can take up to 3-6 months to see the full results after laser skin resurfacing.

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Laser Resurfacing.

Laser skin resurfacing is a minimally invasive procedure that can help you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and age spots.

Get customized treatment from a board-certified plastic surgeon.