Laser skin resurfacing can is a nonsurgical treatment used to address issues brought about by aging, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. At the Centre for Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery, we offer a range of skin resurfacing options, enabling us to meet the varied needs of our patients.
If you are interested in learning more about non-surgical skin rejuvenation in East Greenwich or a surrounding area of New Hampshire, please call our office at 401.336.3770 to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andrea Doyle.
What Can Laser Skin Resurfacing Do?
Laser skin resurfacing can be used to address a wide variety of skin conditions, problems, and irregularities. Some of the most commonly treated issues are:
- Fine Lines and Deep Wrinkles
- Age Spots and Liver Spots
- Acne and Acne Scars
- Freckles and Sunspots
- Uneven Skin Tone or Texture
- Rough Spots and Dry Skin
- Pigmented Lesions
- Port Wine Stains
- Warts and Precancerous Growths
Fractional non-ablative laser skin resurfacing is the most popular type of treatment. This option delivers microbeams of energy to create columns of coagulation in the layers of the skin, but leaves surrounding tissues unaffected. This allows the body’s natural healing process to quickly and efficiently create new, healthy tissue.
Fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing offers patients superior aesthetic outcomes with minimal treatment time, minimal to no pain during the procedure, and minimal redness and swelling post-procedure, making it an ideal solution for many of our patients, but it is not the only type of laser treatment available. At the Centre for Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery, we are pleased to offer the Lumenis M22 device, which expands our laser treatment offerings to include:
- Vascular Lesion Removal
- Spider Vein Elimination
- Varicose Vein Removal
- Hair Removal
- Tattoo Removal
During your initial consultation, we will carefully assess your areas of concern, provide honest information about all of your treatment options, and help you choose the most effective ones for your needs.
Where on the Body Can Lasers be Used?
The most common area of the body to be treated with lasers is the face. Other treatment areas include the:
- Neck
- Chest and Décolletage
- Back
- Arms and Hands
- Legs
We utilize advanced technology to offer the most comprehensive treatment options. If you are curious to learn what laser treatment can do for your body, use the contact form on this page or give us a call to schedule a consultation and speak to us in person.
Am I a Good Laser Skin Resurfacing Candidate?
The best candidates for laser treatment are in generally good health and are willing to follow all of the pre and post-treatment instructions provided by our office. Preparation may require that you stop taking certain herbs and medications. If you use tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, it will be essential that you give up nicotine in the weeks before your treatment. It will also be necessary to avoid direct sun exposure for a brief period leading up to your procedure.
You may not be a good candidate if you are prone to scarring, have an autoimmune disorder, have HSV-1 or HSV-2, are pregnant or nursing, or have a skin tone that does not respond well to resurfacing. During your initial consultation, we will carefully review your medical history and thoroughly examine all potential treatment areas to make sure you are choosing the best treatment for your needs.
Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Safe?
Laser skin resurfacing is generally well-tolerated, but it may not be right for every individual. Common side-effects include redness, swelling, and itching during the healing process. These things are typically mild to moderate, but easily treatable through proper aftercare. In many cases, swelling and redness will subside within one to two days
Additional risks, such as changes in skin tone, infection, and permanent scarring are possible with laser skin resurfacing as well. These risks are lowered when you choose to work with a trained and experienced professional for your treatment. Choosing a practice like ours, which is overseen by a board-certified plastic surgeon, helps to reduce these and other serious risks.
How Many Laser Treatments Will I Need?
It may take two to six sessions to obtain optimal results from cosmetic laser treatments. The type of treatment you are having performed and the issue being corrected will both play a role in how many treatments you require. So too will things including the health of your skin, your age, and your skin tone impact how many laser treatments you may need.
If you are curious to learn how many sessions may be needed to reach your goals, call our East Greenwich office to schedule a one-on-one consultation today.
How Should I Prepare Before My First Treatment?
Not much is needed in preparation for a cosmetic laser treatment. Please come to your appointment with completely clean skin. Do not wear makeup or apply lotions, moisturizers, creams, serums, or anything else before your visit. If you have excessive hair in the treatment area, you may also need to shave before your appointment.
During your initial consultation, we will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure you are fully prepared for your procedure.
Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Painful?
Laser skin resurfacing may be slightly uncomfortable. Some people liken the sensation to that of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. Topical numbing agents can be used to eliminate any discomfort during your procedure.
What Is the Recovery Like After Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Some tenderness, similar to a sunburn, can be present for several days. Redness, swelling, and itching are all possible in the days following the procedure as well. These things should not cause significant discomfort and can typically be addressed through proper skin care and, when needed, mild OTC medications.
Most people can resume normal activities within a few days without complication. We will provide you with detailed instructions to help ensure your recovery experience is as comfortable and easy as possible.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Risks involved in laser treatments include:
- Redness and swelling
- Tenderness and pain
- Infection
- Pigmentation changes
- Scarring
Acne is also possible following laser treatment.
How your skin reacts to laser treatment depends on factors unique to your body. Dr. Doyle will carefully evaluate your candidacy for laser treatment to help ensure you are not at heightened risk for potential side effects.
Ready to schedule your skin resurfacing consultation?
Dr. Andrea Doyle would love to discuss your laser resurfacing options with you during a private one-on-one consultation. Contact our office online or give us a call at 401.336.3770 to get started on achieving your own aesthetic goals.
Dr. Doyle is a board certified Rhode Island plastic surgeon who performs aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries to help change the lives of her patients in positive and empowering ways.