At Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat, we use the most current fractional laser technology, the Palomar StarluxTM for skin resurfacing. The resurfacing process stimulates the formation of collagen and new healthy tissue to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, decrease pore size and tighten the skin. Almost any area of the body can be treated, including the face, chest and hands.
Types of Skin Resurfacing
There are several different techniques used for skin resurfacing. One of the most popular involves the use of lasers. This procedure utilizes short, concentrated, pulsing beams of light targeted at areas of irregular skin. It preserves the outer layer of skin, while heating up the underlying skin to stimulate collagen growth.
A chemical peel involves application of a chemical solution to specific areas of the skin. Some formulas are mild, while others are more caustic and deeper penetrating. Hydroxyl acid, trichloracetic acid or phenol are most typically used.
The Procedure
A typical treatment plan usually consists of three to five treatments every thirty days. Whether anesthesia is required and what type depends on the procedure your surgeon decides on. Specific regions of the face can be resurfaced in 30 to 45 minutes; the entire face takes about one hour. The procedures are safe and commonplace, but there is always some risk involved. Infections, scarring, bleeding and changes in skin color are rare complications. Minor skin irritations may occur following the procedure, especially in people who are prone to cold sores. Redness, swelling and tightness are common and typically resolve quickly but may last three to five days. Care should be taken to avoid the sun as much as possible. Full results may take months to show up. Deeper treatments are long lasting, while superficial ones may need to be repeated periodically.
Contact Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat for more information or to schedule an appointment.