Laser skin resurfacing, also referred to as fractional resurfacing, is an advanced cosmetic technique designed to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of skin affected by sun damage, aging, and environmental factors. This procedure targets areas including the face, neck, chest, and hands to improve skin texture, coloration, and overall quality.

Purpose and Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Common skin concerns such as wrinkles, sun spots, uneven pigmentation, scars, and rough texture can be effectively addressed using laser skin resurfacing. Typical indications for this treatment include:

• Sun-damaged, leathery skin texture
• Fine lines and skin laxity around the eyes
• Vertical lip wrinkles
• Uneven skin tone from sunspots, blotchiness, or hyperpigmentation
• Surface irregularities from acne or other scars
• Precancerous skin lesions suitable for laser treatment

Key advantages of undergoing laser skin resurfacing include:

• Firming and smoothing of skin surface
• Improved skin texture and complexion lasting over time
• Reduction in visible scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation irregularities
• Boosted self-esteem through enhanced skin appearance

Considerations Prior to Treatment

Before selecting laser skin resurfacing, it is important to consult with a qualified aesthetic professional to ensure suitability. Potential risks such as abnormal healing, pigment changes, or exacerbation of skin conditions like cold sores should be carefully evaluated. Additionally, treatment results are long-term but not permanent, with wrinkles possibly reemerging over time, necessitating repeat sessions for maintenance.

Choosing the right surgeon for laser skin resurfacing is critical for achieving safe and pleasing results. When evaluating potential surgeons, consider:

• Appropriate education, board certification, and ongoing training in aesthetic procedures
• Extensive hands-on experience specifically in laser skin resurfacing treatments
• Your personal comfort level and confidence in the surgeon’s expertise
• Membership in recognized professional bodies such as The Aesthetic Society

Learn more about selecting an aesthetic plastic surgeon.

Many surgeons affiliated with The Aesthetic Society have advanced qualifications in laser treatments and prioritize patient safety and satisfaction. You can locate a qualified surgeon near you.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Your cosmetic surgeon will discuss your goals and evaluate your skin to determine candidacy for laser resurfacing. A detailed review of your medical history—including previous surgeries, current medications, allergies, and skin treatment history—will be gathered to customize the treatment plan.

Important Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

• Am I an ideal candidate for this procedure?
• What realistic results can I expect?
• Can I see before and after photos of similar cases?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• What type of anesthesia will be used?
• What are the risks of scarring or discoloration?
• What is the expected recovery time?
• What costs will be involved?
• What follow-up care is required?
• How will you handle unsatisfactory outcomes?

For a comprehensive list of recommended questions, visit Questions to Ask Your Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon.

Next Steps After Consultation

Following your consultation, your surgeon will provide a detailed treatment plan specifying devices to be used, number of sessions, expected outcomes, and financial aspects. You will also receive pre- and post-treatment instructions to prepare for your procedure and facilitate optimal healing. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if needed or use our Ask a Surgeon feature for further guidance.

Your surgeon will provide detailed preparation instructions tailored to your individual needs. Key preparatory actions typically include:

• Ceasing smoking to enhance healing capabilities
• Avoiding aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain herbal supplements that may increase bleeding risk
• Maintaining good hydration around the time of treatment
• Following a regimen involving topical creams or gels to condition the skin pre-treatment
• Taking prescribed oral medications or antiviral agents if you have a history of herpes simplex infections
• Protecting skin from sun exposure for several weeks before treatment to reduce pigmentation issues
• Discontinuing specific skincare products as advised to minimize complications

Laser skin resurfacing is generally performed on an outpatient basis, so arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home and assist you during the initial recovery period is essential.

Expectations on Treatment Day

• The procedure may take place in a certified hospital, ambulatory surgical facility, or office-based suite.
• Attend your appointment with freshly cleansed skin, free of makeup or lotions.
• Typical procedure duration ranges about an hour but varies with treatment extent.
• Comfort medications or anesthesia will be provided as appropriate based on treatment scope.
• Vital signs will be monitored continuously to ensure safety.
• Your surgeon will adhere to the agreed treatment plan and provide post-procedure care guidelines.

Following the procedure, you will be observed briefly prior to discharge unless alternative arrangements have been made.

Recovery time after laser skin resurfacing varies depending on the treatment depth and method. Less intensive procedures heal more quickly, whereas deeper resurfacing requires extended care. Your surgeon will provide guidance on when you can resume routine activities and work.

Immediate Post-Treatment Phase

• The treated skin may be covered with protective ointments such as petroleum jelly, sometimes accompanied by bandages or tape.
• Once anesthesia effects diminish, expect some discomfort, redness, and swelling. Severe or prolonged pain should prompt immediate contact with your surgeon.

First Few Weeks of Recovery

• Healing may involve crusting or scab formation; your surgeon will instruct you on wound care and ointment application.
• Men are advised to refrain from shaving until cleared by their surgeon.
• Avoid waxing or depilatories on treated areas during healing.
• Gradual skin color changes from red to pink indicate regenerating skin.

Extended Recovery Period

• Residual pinkness and sensitivity may persist for weeks to months.
• Makeup camouflage may be approved to cover temporary discoloration.
• Sun exposure should be minimized, and high SPF sunscreen used consistently to protect fragile new skin and prolong results.
• Persistent swelling, redness, or unusual symptoms require timely medical evaluation.

Longevity of Outcomes

Following laser skin resurfacing, patients typically observe gradual improvements becoming most evident several months post-treatment, especially after deeper procedures where skin may initially appear pink. These treatments can offer long-lasting skin rejuvenation, yet natural aging will continue, and wrinkles or pigmentation irregularities may reoccur over time.

Maintaining Results

Periodic maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain the rejuvenated appearance, particularly for more superficial resurfacing sessions. Continuous sun protection and appropriate skincare help extend benefits. Regular follow-up with your surgeon facilitates monitoring progress and addressing changes promptly.

Reviewing before and after photos can provide insight into typical treatment outcomes and help set realistic expectations.

Unlike surgical procedures, laser skin resurfacing does not require incisions. The treatment relies on laser energy to precisely remove or stimulate skin layers, so visible scars from incisions are not expected. Depending on the intensity and depth of treatment, temporary redness or pigmentation changes may occur but usually resolve with proper care.

In rare cases, abnormal wound healing could lead to scarring or discoloration, emphasizing the importance of skilled surgeon selection and adherence to aftercare instructions.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Laser skin resurfacing is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced, board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon. Nevertheless, as with all medical procedures, there are potential risks, including:

• Impaired or abnormal healing leading to raised or thickened scars
• Unexpected changes in skin color, either hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation
• Reactivation of herpes simplex virus causing cold sores

Risks tend to increase with more aggressive treatment depths. Your surgeon will assess your individual risk profile and implement preventive measures to minimize complications.

Enhancing Safety

Following pre- and post-treatment instructions precisely and selecting a qualified surgeon greatly reduces risks. Discuss all health conditions and medications with your provider to ensure laser skin resurfacing is safe for you.

Laser skin resurfacing pricing can vary based on factors such as surgeon expertise, technology used, geographic location, and treatment area size. It is essential to discuss the anticipated financial investment with your surgeon prior to your procedure.

Insurance and Financing

Since laser skin resurfacing is typically an elective cosmetic procedure, it is not usually covered by health insurance. Exceptions exist if the treatment addresses precancerous lesions or certain medical skin conditions, which might qualify for partial coverage. Confirm coverage details with your insurance provider.

Many clinics offer flexible payment plans or financing options to assist patients in managing costs.

Value Considerations

While cost is important, prioritizing surgeon qualifications, safety, and result quality is paramount. Board-certified aesthetic surgeons adhere to rigorous standards to provide optimal treatment outcomes and patient care. For further information about member qualifications, visit The Aesthetic Society membership benefits.