Cosmetic Laser Surgery: Skin-Resurfacing Treatments

Cosmetic laser surgery is a hot option in skin care. Who knew that small but intense lasers could make such a difference in skin appearance? If you are considering laser surgery, here’s what to expect.

First of all you will have a consultation with a dermatologist. You will discuss what you want done, along with your budget and your medical history. Some people are not good candidates for cosmetic laser surgery because they have a skin disorder or are on certain medications. Likewise, people who are prone to scarring or who have darker skin tones are not preferred candidates because it may take several months for their skin tone to return to normal.

If you and the dermatologist decide to go through with the procedure and make the appointment, you may be given creams or medications to take to prepare your skin and to protect against viruses. It is important to take these products as directed so that you will heal properly.

Once you arrive for your appointment (which could be a doctor’s office, a hospital or an outpatient surgical center), you will be given an anesthetic. It may be a topical or local anesthetic, which simply numbs the area around the site. Or you may receive general anesthesia, in which you are rendered partially or fully unconscious. The anesthesia depends on the complexity of the procedure.

During cosmetic laser surgery, the doctor removes outer skin layers to reveal skin that is not wrinkled or discolored. The new skin layer will be allowed to heal and rebuild. Multiple treatments may be needed, depending on how much skin needs to be resurfaced. Those who have had the procedure while fully conscious describe the sensation of the lasers as being similar to having a rubber band snapped against the skin.

After the procedure, your skin will be protected by cold packs and protective creams and bandages. You will be given pain medications to help with swelling and minor pain. The area will likely be red and crusty for about a week. Later it will be bright pink for several weeks until the skin has healed. The dermatologist will give you instructions as to how to care for your skin while it heals. For example, some doctors offer camouflage makeup.

Laser surgery is generally considered to be safe. However it is surgery and carries all the usual risks of infection.

So, how much does it cost? The usual doctor’s fee is runs between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on the procedure and the type and number of lasers, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This fee does not include anesthesia and other expenses. Insurance does not generally cover cosmetic laser surgery (although it may cover the procedure for accident victims).

Cosmetic laser surgery is an excellent way to improve skin appearance, but it is not for the faint of heart. It is essential to consult a highly-qualified dermatologist and understand the process fully. But with these precautions, you will soon have younger, more beautiful skin.