How Laser Resurfacing Works
With laser surgery, there is no cutting of the skin using a scalpel. Instead, the laser produces brief flashes of high-energy light that vaporize the uppermost layer of the skin. These skin cells literally disappear in a puff of steam. And because the laser cauterizes (seals) the blood vessels and nerve endings, there is virtually no bleeding.
Accuracy
The laser gives Dr. Michalak unparalleled control and pinpoint precision. That's because the laser beam can be narrowed down to the width of a toothpick. This allows Dr. Michalak to carefully target the area to be treated, without affecting the surrounding area of skin. One of the biggest advantages of Laser Resurfacing is that its accuracy allows for the removal of tiny, fine lines, such as "crow's feet" around the eyes, "lip lines" above the mouth, and other facial wrinkles and scars.
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Before Laser
Resurfacing |
After Laser
Resurfacing |
Minimal Pain
The procedure is performed with either local anesthetic or sedation, depending on the extent of the area(s) treated. In some cases general anesthetic may be recommended. Because this procedure does not produce bleeding, crusting or significant swelling, post-operative complications are further minimized. In addition, since the laser is self-sterilizing, the risk of infection is greatly reduced.
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Before Laser
Resurfacing |
After Laser
Resurfacing |
Shorter Recovery
Both procedures may be performed at Dr. Michalak's office surgery center or at Overlake Outpatient Surgery Center, and you will go home within an hour after your procedure. Most of our patients do not require any post-operative pain medication. Healing occurs in 7-10 days, leaving a pink, smoother, "new" skin.
Pinkness of the skin may last for several weeks but can be covered with make-up as desired.
Improved Results
Laser Resurfacing actually rejuvenates the skin, giving you a new, soft complexion. That's because the laser renews the epidermis (the top skin cells), revealing the dermis (the skin layer underneath). In the process, the dermis regenerates collagen and the new overlying epidermis. The result? Younger appearing skin. (Which is exactly what it is!) Now that you know the advantages of Laser Resurfacing, you can understand why we are excited to offer this procedure to you. However, a word of caution: The effectiveness and safety of this procedure are dependant on the skill and experience of the physician. Laser Resurfacing is a highly specialized procedure which requires specific training and experience with lasers. Dr. Michalak has been trained in Laser Resurfacing and has been performing laser surgery for 16 years.
Until recently, the three most effective ways of removing facial wrinkles and scars have been the Chemical Peel (chemical applied to the face), Dermabrasion (sanding of the skin with a rotating brush) and Facelift. These methods, while effective, have disadvantages such as crusting, bleeding and prolonged healing. Finally, we have a new technology that removes wrinkles and scars with more precision and quicker recovery: Laser Resurfacing. Using the state-of-the-art UltraPulse CO2 Laser, we are able to obtain the best possible results for you, with minimal discomfort. Never before has the removal of facial wrinkles and scars been so safe, accurate, and effective.
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