Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin. It can be used to treat wrinkles, acne scars or remove various lesions from the face. Skin resurfacing can be ablative or nonablative. Ablative resurfacing involves removal of the damaged or irregular outer layers of skin while allowing new skin to grow on the surface. Nonablative resurfacing uses various energies in the skin to stimulate the development of new collagen and elastin.
Nonablative resurfacing can be accomplished by many different means. The procedure is further discussed in laser services. Ablative resurfacing is a more aggressive, yet more complete form of resurfacing and can remove or reduce significant wrinkles or acne scarring. There is a healing period for several days after the treatment.
Ablative skin resurfacing can be accomplished with three procedures: dermabrasion, laser resurfacing (CO2 and Erbium) and chemical peeling. Each of these procedures can be performed with a variable of injury to the skin, with more extensive scars or sun damage requiring a more extensive treatment to the skin.
Skin Resurfacing FAQs
- Who would benefit from ablative skin resurfacing?
- Who is an ideal candidate for skin resurfacing?
- What qualifications should my surgeon have?
- What are new techniques in skin resurfacing?
- What can I expect during my consultation for skin resurfacing?
- What are some of the surgical facts I need to know?
- What are some of the postoperative concerns I might have?
- What are the risks of ablative skin resurfacing?
- Does insurance cover the cost of skin resurfacing?
Who would benefit from ablative skin resurfacing?
An individual who is looking to improve the appearance of their skin may benefit. Premature skin changes due to the sun and wrinkles may be treated. Acne scars may also be improved as well as scars from an accident or surgery.
Who is an ideal candidate for skin resurfacing?
A woman or man who desires rejuvenation of their skin or improvement in the appearance of facial scars. Patients should be of good overall health and have realistic expectations.
What qualifications should my surgeon have?
A surgeon should be experienced in performing the various options for facial resurfacing such as medium and deep chemical peels, erbium and/or CO2 laser resurfacing and dermabrasion. Treatments may include one or more of the above therapies to reach the patient’s goals. The extent of resurfacing required and the proper technique used are determined by an experienced surgeon. Dr. Andryk has extensive training and experience in the various forms of skin resurfacing.
What are new techniques in skin resurfacing?
Many new treatments have evolved which allow the skin to be stimulated through various forms of energies. These nonablative options resurface the skin with little or no downtime. However, less “extensive” treatments typically result in only mild to moderate improvement and are good for early skin sun changes or mild scarring. Ablative treatments, such as medium and deep chemical peeling, erbium or CO2 laser resurfacing and dermabrasion have been around for many years, even decades.
What can I expect during my consultation for skin resurfacing?
Dr. Andryk will discuss your goals and expectations for skin improvement. The various options for treatment in addition to the down time of the procedure as well as longevity of the results will be reviewed.
What are some of the surgical facts I need to know?
A majority of ablative laser resurfacing treatments:
- are performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia
- are performed as an outpatient procedure
- may involve local anesthesia for small select treatments
What are some of the postoperative concerns I might have?
A majority of ablative laser resurfacing treatments:
- require the skin to heal over a period of 5-10 days
- cream will be worn for several days on the treated site while the skin
is healing - will leave the skin pink for several weeks to months which can be covered
with makeup - result in a “sunburn” discomfort for several hours after the procedure
What are the risks of ablative skin resurfacing?
The risks include excessive swelling, prolonged pinkness, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, scarring, infection and redevelopment of oral herpes.
Does insurance cover the cost of skin resurfacing?
Typically ablative skin resurfacing for the purpose of skin rejuvenation or improvement in acne scarring is not covered by insurance. Ablative resurfacing created by a trauma or as un undesirable surgical result may be covered by insurance.
