Erbium Laser Resurfacing

Sun damage, environmental factors and aging all leave our complexions riddled with fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, hyperpigmentation and scarring. Erbium laser resurfacing can treat both superficial and deep wrinkles to reveal a more uniform, refreshed complexion and it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. This non-surgical treatment works by precise removal (ablation) of the epidermis and upper dermis layers of the skin. New skin cells from hair follicles and oil glands “resurface” the lasered area to give you less wrinkles and lines. At the same time, the laser stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin. Achieve natural-looking skin rejuvenation with erbium laser resurfacing.

Candidates

Erbium laser resurfacing is ideal for patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of fine lines and sun damage on their face and neck. While this treatment provides significant and lasting results as a standalone procedure, it can also be performed in combination with facelift or brow lift surgery to address visible signs of aging around the eyes, mouth and forehead. Candidates should be nonsmokers, in good overall health and have realistic expectations of their results. In as little as one treatment, the erbium laser can target and treat:

• Fine lines
• Deep wrinkles
• Acne scars
• Hyperpigmentation
• Sun damage

Procedure

Erbium laser resurfacing is performed at our outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with sedation is available for patients undergoing partial resurfacing that is limited to the eye area or mouth. This treatment delivers precise and intense beams of light to vaporize the epidermis and upper dermis layer-by-layer to reveal newer, healthier and younger-looking skin. It also triggers the production of collagen, which helps naturally restructure the skin. The erbium laser is safer than other lasers, such as CO2, because it utilizes less heat and ablates a thinner amount of tissue. This allows for more accurate and less damaging treatments with shorter recovery times.

Recovery

Some swelling and redness are expected immediately after the procedure, and you may experience irritation or an itching sensation. Patients usually return to work and their normal activities after seven to 10 days; however, the skin will appear bright pink or red for several months as the new, fresh skin blends into your normal tone. Makeup can be worn after two weeks to cover the redness. Once it fades, you will have a softer, smoother and refreshed, complexion.

Results

Your final results will begin to show as soon as the redness dissipates. These results will improve with time as additional collagen is produced. You will notice a significant improvement in the tone and texture of your skin that will last for years when paired with a healthy lifestyle and proper sun protection. Erbium laser resurfacing offers a significant reduction of wrinkles and sun damage with fewer side effects and a shorter recovery period than more invasive lasers or surgery. Enjoy your rejuvenated and even-toned complexion sooner with erbium laser resurfacing.

Risks

Although rare, complications are possible with erbium laser resurfacing. These risks and side effects include:

• Anesthesia risks
• Infection
• Persistent redness
• Changes in pigmentation
• Scarring