The new CO2 pulse lasers are effective for treating fine wrinkles that occur with aging and exposure to the elements. Some surgeons are using them for blepharoplasty and facial resurfacing either with or without facelift surgery.

The laser also treats the vertical wrinkles that occur in the upper lip area. This new method for Laser Skin Resurfacing takes advantage of the ability of the laser to penetrate the skin to a precise depth. The consistency and degree of penetration affords an even effect over the entire treated area. The superficial skin is shed and new skin regenerates, providing a fresher, smoother appearance.

After the treatment the skin resembles a deep sunburn for about ten days. The redness fades and turns pink within a few weeks. Makeup can easily camouflage the pink color which disappears in one to three months.

During the healing process, we advise that patients avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Potential postoperative complications of pigmentary changes of the skin are managed through the preoperative and postoperative use of hydraquinone and retinoid creams. Hypertrophic scars and keloids are other problems for which the laser has application. The laser also removes small blood vessels, birthmarks, and tatoos from the skin.

Surgery Time: Approximately one hour.

Anesthesia: General Anesthesia, the patient is totally alseep.

Post Operative Care: Skin care treatment and avoidance of sun exposure are discussed.

IPL Rejuvenation was designed to combat the effects of aging and damaged skin in a softer, gentler way. The redness and flushing of rosacea can be reduced 80 to 90 percent. It can be used to treat the full face, neck, chest and even the hands.

The light energy stimulates the production of collagen. As the new collagen forms, it softens the appearance of aging skin. Fine lines and wrinkles are decreased.

What results can I expect?

After the first treatment, your skin will have a more even tone with a smoother look and feel. Sunspots will fade. Pore sizes will shrink. Fine lines and wrinkles will gradually decrease in size. These improvements will steadily increase with each treatment. Patients with rosacea will see a progressive decrease in redness with every treatment.

Is there a recovery period?

Post-operative discomfort is almost nonexistent. After treatment with most light systems, the treated skin may appear a little flushed and capillaries may seem to be more visible. The flushed look soon fades away, and the capillaries appear to vanish, leaving the skin looking younger.

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on the area treated, there will be a series of five to eight treatments. Treatments usually take from 15 to 30 minutes and are administered in the doctor's office.

BlueWaterArticles.com: - Laser Skin Resurfacing Information

About the Author

Dave Stringham is the President of LookingYourBest.com an online resource for plastic surgery procedures. Learn more about skin resurfacing and other plastic surgery procedures.