Laser Skin Resurfacing
The OptiSkin Approach
At OptiSkin, we can diminish discoloration and scarring, as well as refresh, smooth and plump aging skin using Fraxel Dual 1550/1927, fractionated lasers that emits short bursts of light to heat the skin and create tiny channels in a fraction of the skin (hence the term “fractionated”). Why treat only part of the skin? This approach garners significant rejuvenation, yet requires far less recovery time than a laser treatment that targeted an entire plane of skin.
How Fractionated Laser Resurfacing Works
The Fraxel laser promotes collagen formation, creating more youthful skin.
Illustration by C. Wheeler Studios
The heat from the laser, combined with the creation of those tiny channels in the skin, triggers the body’s own natural healing process: The top layers of skin slough off and reveal the fresh, smooth skin beneath—and the lower layers are stimulated to produce more collagen and elastin, improving skin’s plumpness, firmness and elasticity.
Skin Conditions Laser Resurfacing Helps to Treat
In addition to refreshing dull, aging skin, fractionated laser resurfacing is used on the face, chest and hands to diminish sun damage, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve the appearance of acne or surgical scarring.
What to Expect During Treatment
At the start of your appointment, the skin will be thoroughly cleansed, then, if the patient chooses, numbed with a topical anesthetic. Once the skin is numb (this can take up to forty-five minutes), Dr. Markowitz will use the fractionated laser to target the area(s) of concern. Most patients report feeling some tingling and bursts of heat during a laser resurfacing session, though discomfort is usually mitigated by the local anesthetic and a cooling fan. A typical treatment lasts between twenty minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area (or number of areas) being treated.
What to Expect Post-Treatment
The downtime after laser skin resurfacing will vary from patient to patient, depending on the size and depth of the area treated. Most patients, however, experience moderate redness, flaking, and swelling for at least two to three days after a laser resurfacing session, with some pinkness lingering for about a week. Most patients are able to wear makeup to hide red tones by day four post-treatment.
Typical Laser Resurfacing Results
Within two weeks, you will notice smoother skin, increased radiance and more even tone. Improved firmness and elasticity is typically evident after about six weeks, with continued improvement as more collagen and elastin is produced. Most patients report results from laser resurfacing last about a year.
How Much Does Laser Resurfacing Cost?
An average laser resurfacing treatment targeting one area costs between $1000–$3000. When multiple areas are addressed, the cost increases.
Call OptiSkin Today
To find out if laser skin resurfacing is right for you, direct message or call the office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Markowitz.