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Schedule a laser resurfacing consultation! Contact our Baltimore, Maryland area practice today.
Greenspring Professional Building
10807 Falls Road
Suite 101
Lutherville, MD 21093
Phone: 866-899-9813
Fax: 410-902-9803
Laser Resurfacing Information From Our Baltimore, Maryland Area Center
Laser resurfacing treats a number of different conditions including wrinkles, lines, scars (acne and other types as well), facial discoloration, and severe sun damage. Technically, laser resurfacing works by using light energy to produce a controlled burn of the skin. The energy effectively strips away, layer by layer, the surface of the skin. As the skin heals, the previous photoaged cells are replaced with younger, healthier ones. Depending on the condition and severity of your needs, different lasers might be chosen. During your laser resurfacing consultation at our Baltimore, Maryland area practice, Dr. Ronald Schuster can determine the best treatment option for you. The two main lasers used today are the CO2 and Erbium lasers. There is also a laser which combines the use of both types. There is simply no better treatment to achieve the smooth, clear appearance of the skin that lasers can provide.
Laser Resurfacing Recovery Information
While laser resurfacing works exceptionally well, there is a significant recovery period ranging from 5-10 days, again depending on the severity of the problem and the type of laser used. One of the biggest issues with laser resurfacing has to do with the potential lightening of the treated skin such that without make-up, one can see the difference between the treated and non-treated skin. In most cases this "trade-off" is well worth it. Laser resurfacing should only be performed by a Board Certified and properly trained physician, as there are significant risks if it is not performed properly. Laser resurfacing candidates at our Baltimore, Maryland area center also undergo an extensive pre-operative consultation to determine if this treatment is appropriate for them.
Laser Resurfacing Alternatives
In addition to laser resurfacing, there are other non-laser treatments which achieve some similar results. This includes Intense Pulsed Light (IPL™) treatments, or Photofacial therapy. This involves receiving a series of less intense light treatments which have a significantly reduced down time. These treatments are very successful at removing the signs of sun damage such as visible blood vessels and discoloration. It also is reported to stimulate collagen formation within the skin, thus making your skin feel and look healthier. However, IPL™ does not work well for wrinkles or scars.
Patients interested in facial rejuvenation options like IPL™ and laser resurfacing can visit our Baltimore, Maryland area center to discuss their concerns and determine which options are appropriate for them. Other alternatives may include BOTOX® Cosmetic, Restylane®, chemical peels, face lift, eyelid surgery, necklift, brow lift, and more.
Laser Resurfacing Tools and Techniques:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser
Purpose
- To treat surface wrinkles - laugh lines, crows feet, lip lines
- To tighten skin a bit but not like a facelift - laser resurfacing treatment “tightens the bed sheets but doesn't change the mattress”
- Excellent for sun damaged or weathered skin. Architecture is actually improved, more orderly and rejuvenated
- Can compliment other facial procedures to achieve optimal results
- Very good for scars from acne, chicken pox and injuries
Recuperation
- Moderate pain - limited to one to two days
- Skin heals in about 10 days. After healing is complete, the skin is a deep red color for two to three weeks and then turns a pink color for two to three months. Makeup can typically be used 7-10 days after laser resurfacing treatment with the CO2 laser
- Recommend 7-10 days off from school/work
- Back to full activity in two weeks
- Effects continue to improve for three months
Erbium: YAG Laser
Purpose
- Treats fine lines and wrinkles
- Often for use on younger patients
- Not as much "tightening" effect as CO2 laser resurfacing
Recuperation
- Overall recuperation slightly faster than CO2 laser in all phases of healing/redness
- Skin heals in about seven days, redness is more mild than Carbon Dioxide laser resurfacing treatment and gradually fades over four to six weeks (make-up can be used to cover pink color)
- Recommend three to seven days off from school/work, depending on type of employment
- Back to full activity in two weeks
Contact plastic surgeon Ronald Schuster, MD to schedule a laser resurfacing consultation at our Baltimore, Maryland area center.
Ronald H. Schuster, MD is a member of these organizations:
