Laser Facial Rejuvenation
Laser facial rejuvenation is a fairly new technique in facial cosmetic surgery.  It has rapidly evolved into one of the more commonly performed cosmetic procedures due to its ability to make dramatic improvements in the appearance of the facial skin.  Laser facial rejuvenation uses a laser to carefully, precisely and rapidly remove the most superficial layer of the skin.  This layer, the epidermis, is often sun damaged and can give the face an aged appearance.  The laser also causes tightening of the collagen fibers in the deeper layer of the skin resulting in a smoother, more youthful texture.

Patient Selection & Preparation
Proper patient selection is paramount to achieving desirable results.  Not all patients are good candidates for laser facial rejuvenation.  Fair-complected individuals tend to achieve the best results with the least preparation, but all skin tones and textures can potentially be treated with the proper skin care.  Most patients are placed on a skin preparation regiment for 3 to 6 weeks.  This involves the use of a topical cream to help thin the outer layer of the skin and an agent to help stabilize the pigment layer of the skin.  Avoidance of smoking is essential, as cigarette smoke will adversely affect the skin’s ability to heal.  Other absolute contradictions to laser facial rejuvenation are the use of the prescription drug Accutane, poorly controlled diabetes, auto-immune skin disorders and infections systemic disease.  Your physician will review these and other issues with you during your consultation.  It is essential that you are truthful with your medical and social history.  Shortly before the procedure, a final consultation will be carried out where the specifics of the procedure are reviewed and prescriptions for the necessary medications are dispensed.

The Procedure
The laser rejuvenation procedure is usually performed in less than 1 hour using “twilight” sedation.  The medications used are very safe and rapidly wear off when discontinued by the anesthesia team.  They produce an “amnestic” effect so that most patients do not recall the actual procedure.  Local anesthetics are also used for additional patient comfort.  All patients are closely monitored throughout the procedure and in the recovery area.  The initial dressing is a clear synthetic mask, which allows the skin to breathe and repair itself with little maintenance.  You will be closely evaluated following the procedure until you are stable enough to be released with a friend or relative.

What to expect:  Immediately afterwards
A great deal of time is spent in the pre-treatment period to try and prepare the patient for their initial appearance following the procedure.  It can be quite shocking.  The face will have a slightly reddened appearance and the dressing that is applied is a clear mask that resembles cellophane.  A netting is placed over the facial dressing to help secure it.  The patient is placed on antibiotics to help prevent infection and an anti-viral medication to prevent fever blisters.  Pain medication may be used, but most patients report very little discomfort.  A positive attitude is important early on and the physician is always available for any questions.

What to expect:  The first 72 hours
Swelling and redness increase as the skin rapidly begins to heal.  The physician will see you during this early period to make sure the skin is healing normally and that there is no sign of infection.  Pain is minimal, but once again, the facial appearance is alarming.

What to expect:  4 days to 1 week
The swelling decreases, usually in a dramatic fashion.  The clear facial mask is removed and the physician evaluates the skin.  The patient is then placed on topical skin care tailored to the overall appearance of the skin.  Moisturizers are heavily employed to help the healing process.  The new skin appears tighter and has a sun burned appearance.  The face is washed 2-3 times per day with baby shampoo or a soap facial wash.  Most medications are now discontinued.

What to expect:  1 to 3 weeks
The impressive results now become evident.  The face takes on a more youthful, tighter appearance.  The redness fades and most patients are able to begin wearing cosmetics at 7-10 days.  Skin care is individualized, but usually involves a moisturizer and, when necessary, creams to eliminate redness or any mild pigment change.  Nearly all patients are back to their normal activities by 2 weeks.

Tips to Remember

• More than any other facial cosmetic procedure, laser facial rejuvenation requires cooperation between the patient and the treatment team to avoid risks and unwanted complications.  In the proper patient, this procedure is very safe and produces amazing results.
• Avoidance of excessive sun exposure and smoking will become a lifelong commitment.