The laser works by
vaporizing the uppermost layers of skin around the wrinkles or scar. This controlled
injury causes some shortening of the collagen that is present and therefore patients often
experience some immediate improvement of wrinkles. It also stimulates the development of
new collagen and elastin over the following three to six months, resulting in a continual
improvement to the appearance of the skin. Depending on the type and depth of the wrinkle
and scar treated, one or more treatments may be required.
How
long will the results last?
The results of laser
resurfacing can last up to 10 years or even longer. This is, however, very dependent on
the lifestyle of the patient, i.e. sun exposure, smoking, poor diet.
What do I
need to do before treatment?
Prior to treatment, we
often recommend that chemical glycolic acid peels be performed. These glycolic acid peels
will remove the surface epithelial cells and enhance laser treatment. The clinic also
offers multivitamin and mineral bags to clients as pre- and post-laser treatments to aid
in the rejuvenation of the skin. Your physician will advise you of what pre-laser
treatments and products would best enhance the laser resurfacing of your specific skin
type.
What
if I have a history of herpes simplex?
All patients are
requested to take Zovirax for seven days post-treatment to prevent the risk of a herpes
eruption. Active herpes infection is a contraindication to laser therapy. All clients have
been exposed to herpes in their lifetime; therefore there are no exclusions to the
prophylactic use of Zovirax medication.
Will
I be able to go in the sun again?
Sun tanning
or going
into a tanning booth prior to or immediately after laser resurfacing should be avoided, as
it increases the chances of irregular pigmentation. Sun exposure on an extensive basis
will again wrinkle and damage the skin, so we strongly advise avoidance. Outdoor activity,
of course, is encouraged but recommended in the early morning or later afternoon. Once the
new skin has formed following laser resurfacing, all clients are to use a sun block of
minimum 15 SPE This is recommended as a lifetime habit but is particularly necessary
postoperatively.
What should I
expect after my laser treatment?
The treated area will
initially be very red with a superficial wound. Swelling around the treated area will
occur and is particularly evident around the eyes. Within 24 -48 hours, some soft crusting
and weeping may occur. Within seven to ten days the skin will have healed but will remain
red for approximately one to three months following treatment. Once new skin has formed
conventional moisturizers and facial makeup can be applied to the area to cover up any
pink skin that may be present.
What
kind of results can I expect?
Those patients that are
most sun damaged and scarred get the most improvement. Although results may vary, clients
with very heavy lines can expect to look 10 years younger or more in appearance. In
addition to the tightening of old collagen, one of the great advantages of laser skin
rejuvenation is that new collagen forms, which is more natural in appearance.
Is the
procedure painful?
All clientele will have
proper anesthesia for laser resurfacing. This anesthesia may include dental nerve blocks,
local anesthesia, and/or tumescent anesthesia. At times we will also recommend a mild
sedative as well as an analgesic prior to the resurfacing. Postoperatively the resurfaced
skin is to be kept moist with an ointment and dressings as needed. The moistness will keep
the area pain free as well as aid in the healing process. Postoperatively, there may be a
burning sensation of the lasered skin for the first 24-48 hours. Cool compresses can be
applied for relief.
What areas
can be treated?
The Luxar Laser is an
effective treatment for fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. It offers a short recovery time
with minimal post treatment care. Specifically this laser may be used to treat the
following:
Calgary Vein And Laser
