Laser Skin Resurfacing

Prior to laser skin resurfacing, you will be placed on a series of treatments to prepare your skin for the laser procedure. This usually starts six weeks before your procedure. The treatments are customized to your skin type, and are designed to help you get the best results form the procedure while minimizing any complications.

To help reduce discomfort, you may receive sedation and your skin may be numbed with local anesthetics. If extensive laser resurfacing is planned, or it is in combination with other procedures, you may have general anesthesia. Following your procedure, Dr. Jimerson will prescribe medication to manage your discomfort.

There are two types of lasers that are used in skin resurfacing: a CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser and erbium. Both lasers work by vaporizing damaged skin cells.

Newer CO2 lasers use short, pulsed light energy or continuous light beams to precisely remove thin layers of skin, causing minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

Erbium lasers remove both superficial and moderately deep wrinkles in your face, as well as your neck, chest or hands.

After your procedure you will have specialized dressings placed in order to protect the treated tissues. To promote healing, additional dressings or specialized treatments may be required.

Different patients react differently to laser skin resurfacing. Most often, you’ll feel like you have a mild sunburn. There will be redness and swelling, and you could feel itching and stinging for several days.

Some patients will appear o have a severe sunburn, with raw skin that may blister. A crust is formed on the skin – which should not be touched. After about five days to a week you skin dries out and peels.

As with most procedures, there are risks involved. These include:

• Infection • Cold sore reactivation • Hyperpigmentation • Small white bumps during healing • Prolonged redness • Scarring on rare occasions • Swelling

Be sure to follow Dr. Jimerson’s instruction following your injections to obtain optimal results.

There are some key steps to follow in order to have the best possible outcome from your laser skin resurfacing.

You will need to clean the skin areas that were treated two to five times each day with saline or diluted vinegar. Dr. Jimerson will advise which one to use.

To help your skin heal, you’ll need to apply protective skin care treatments.

After healing, you will need to use a sunscreen without exception! We’ll help you choose the right sunscreen to offer maximum protection. You may be directed to use a moisturizer every day on your new skin.

You will probably see an immediate difference in the treated skin, which will continue to show improvement for up to a year. During that time, your skin will be extremely sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to reduce your exposure to the sun as much as possible, and use sunscreen every day – preferably one with a high SPF rating.

There is a possibility that your skin could stay pink or red for several months after your procedure. The laser skin resurfacing procedure will last for many years, but be aware that wrinkles and lines will reoccur due to the normal aging process. You can repeat the procedure as required.

Prior to your laser skin resurfacing you will have a consultation with Dr. Jimerson. This is an important appointment, as it will give you an opportunity to ask questions about the procedure and what you can expect.

He will discuss you specific goals, take a medical history and review your current medications. Photos are usually taken, both before and after the procedure.

You will also be able to learn what options are available to you, along with the risks and possible complications of the procedure.

During your appointment, it’s good to ask Dr. Jimerson questions about your procedure.

Here are some questions to consider:

– Are any other procedures recommended?

– How long will the recovery period be for my surgery?

– What risks are associated with my procedure?

– What type of complications can happen?

– When will I be able to see the results?

– Do you think that I’m a good candidate for this procedure?

Bes sure to ask any other questions you have about Dr. Jimerson, the procedure or anything else that concerns you about your procedure.

Dr. Jimerson and his team have years of extensive training and experience in all areas of cosmetic surgery, liposuction and fat grafting. He has pioneered face and body sculpting techniques that bring patients exceptional, long-lasting results.

The team is committed to meet your unique needs, with a natural, long-lasting look. Because of his expertise, Dr. Jimerson offers patients reduced operative times, which means faster recovery times. In addition, he strives to use techniques that are safer than traditional procedures.

The best way to determine if laser skin resurfacing is right for you is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jimerson. The doctor will discuss the procedure, evaluate your concerns relating to your body and answer any questions you may have. To schedule your appointment click here.