Laser Skin Resurfacing in Las Vegas, NV

Laser skin resurfacing at Plastic Surgery Vegas is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that utilizes pulsating beams of light to exfoliate dead and damaged skin one layer at a time. We offer several different types of laser treatments, including IPL photofacials, ActiveFX™ CO2 laser, and Cutera's Excel® V. Laser skin resurfacing is performed to reduce facial wrinkles and lines and to minimize skin irregularities, including acne scars, pigmentation, and other issues. Sometimes called a laser peel, laser skin resurfacing is an ideal facial treatment for individuals desiring clearer, softer, and youthful-looking skin. Based on the condition of the patient's skin, the laser may be customized for the best results. There is little recovery time needed with most laser skin resurfacing procedures. Any questions or concerns can be reviewed with our skilled team during your initial consultation at our Las Vegas office.

Plastic Surgery Vegas has three types of laser skin resurfacing treatments that are chosen based on the condition of your skin. Some are performed for milder cases of skin damage while others are more aggressive:

• Ablative Laser Treatments
  Ablative lasers eliminate thin skin layers, like a deep chemical peel, with a high level of control that allows the laser technician to minimize skin damage. Ablative lasers are best for skin tightening, treating acne scars, and diminishing wrinkles.
• Non-Ablative Laser Treatments
  Non-ablative laser treatments don't remove the skin — the laser light creates micro-injuries to the skin to promote the body's natural healing response. Non-ablative treatments are great for addressing wrinkles and fine lines on those who are willing to wait several months for strong results.
• Fractional Laser Treatments
  Fractional laser treatments are a combination of ablative and non-ablative that make small holes in the lower layers of the skin. The body's automatic healing leads to tighter, healthier skin. Fractional laser treatments can also be used for deep wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and uneven pigmentation.

There are several factors to consider when choosing which laser procedure is best for your skin. Laser skin resurfacing is ideal for anyone who is unhappy with their general complexion. If you have skin damaged by the sun, age spots, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, redness, or pigmentation issues, a laser skin resurfacing procedure may be helpful to improve these cosmetic flaws. In addition, laser skin resurfacing is wonderful for those who have scaly patches, rough texture, or other skin surface problems. A laser peel is not suggested if you have very dark skin or active acne. Also, it's important to know that there is a recovery period needed after laser therapy. Some patients, based on the condition of their skin, may require up to 2 – 3 weeks to recover.

Before you are scheduled for a more intense or deeper laser treatment, you may be asked to use a topical retinoid for 2 – 3 weeks before your session. This helps prep the skin for more effective results. Medication may be prescribed prior to the procedure to help lessen any pain for greater relaxation throughout your session. If your skin needs mild improvement, local anesthesia will be used to numb certain areas where the laser will target. For the full face or deeper laser treatments, a kind of sedation may be necessary. During the procedure, you can relax in our treatment chair while the laser glides over the skin, directly targeting the specific sections for improvement. You will feel the warmth from the laser followed with cold air from the built-in cooling system. The laser works to destroy dead and damaged skin cells while also stimulating new collagen production.

After light laser treatments, a healing ointment will be smoothed over the skin and you can return home to recover. The skin may look red, and there may be some irritation and swelling. This should subside in a few days, and the skin peeling process will last over a 3 – 5-day timeframe. If you are getting a more intense laser treatment, your recovery time will take longer. The treated areas will most likely be covered by dressings, and the burning, irritation, and swelling symptoms will be more intense. Medication can be prescribed to help reduce these symptoms. The recovery time for a more intense session can last 2 – 3 weeks. All patients need to limit their sun exposure following their treatment and use sun protection regularly. Regardless of the intensity of the laser skin resurfacing, the dermis will naturally crust, flake, and peel off. It is vital to avoid interfering with the healing process to prevent scarring and to protect the treated area from sun exposure. After the peeling is completed, your skin should feel smoother while appearing clearer, younger, and rejuvenated.

What's the best type of resurfacing for me?
Our team can help you decide which laser skin resurfacing option will best meet your needs and goals in your initial consultation. The best treatment for you will depend on the health and condition of your skin, your unique dermal concerns, and how deep you want your treatment to go. The length of recovery time might also be a consideration when choosing your treatment type. If you are in doubt, it's better to try a lighter treatment to see how you like your outcomes and decide if you want something stronger for your next appointment.

How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?
We will give you tips on how you can help your skin heal after a laser resurfacing treatment. The most important rule is to not peel or pick off flaking skin. This can cause long-term damage, including scars. You should skip all hair removal methods on the treated skin, which means no waxing, shaving, or hair creams. We can recommend an ointment to help soothe treated areas.

Should I get laser skin resurfacing or a chemical peel?
Once our team has listened to your concerns, we will help you decide if laser skin resurfacing or a chemical peel will achieve your goals. Although both of these rejuvenate your skin, each has its own benefits and drawbacks. In your consultation, we can explain each choice and make a suggestion for your treatment.

How often should I get laser skin resurfacing treatments?
Depending on the laser resurfacing method you select for your treatment, you might need to wait weeks or even a few months between appointments. Deep treatments will give you results that last a long time but will require more time for recovery. You should talk to our team about how often you are willing to come back for appointments so we can take this into account when recommending a type of resurfacing during your initial consultation.

A laser skin resurfacing treatment provides amazing results if you are looking to get a younger-looking complexion. If you are considering a laser treatment and would like to hear more about their benefits, as well as other nonsurgical treatments Plastic Surgery Vegas offers, we invite you to call our office in Las Vegas, NV today to schedule your consultation with our skilled team.