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Laser Resurfacing FAQs

What is laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, is a procedure which utilizes a laser device to treat layers of damaged skin. The procedure is able to smooth the face and fine wrinkles, softening lines around the eyes and mouth. It can also be used to minimize facial scars and areas of uneven pigmentation. A carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is commonly used and is able to treat deeper lines and acne scarring. An Erbium laser may also be used for less aggressive treatment of the skin, treating shallower lines and irregular and pitted scars.

Who is the best candidate for laser resurfacing?
The best candidate for laser resurfacing is a physically healthy, psychologically stable individual with realistic expectations who is interested in improving the appearance of their skin. Patients with olive, brown or black skin may have an increased risk of pigmentation changes. In addition, individuals with an active skin infection on the area to be treated and those who have taken accutane in the past twelve to eighteen months may not be the best candidates for this procedure.

Are there any limitations to laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing can enhance the appearance of the skin. Nevertheless, it is not for everyone and it cannot completely eradicate all facial flaws or stop the aging process.

What can I expect during a consultation before laser resurfacing?
During a consultation, your surgeon should discuss your medical history and explain the procedure in detail, including the potential risks and benefits, the costs, and the recovery. He or she should conduct a routine examination and will likely photograph the areas being treated. It's important that you be frank in discussing your medical history.

Where is the laser resurfacing procedure performed?
Laser resurfacing may be performed in an office, surgery center or hospital. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 62% of cosmetic surgery procedures performed by their member doctors in 2004 took place in an office, 21% in a hospital, and 17% in a free-standing ambulatory surgical facility.

What type of anesthesia is used for laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is most often performed using a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. Some cases, particularly those involving more extensive resurfacing, may require general anesthesia.

How is the actual laser resurfacing procedure performed?
After anesthesia is administered, the activated laser is passed back and forth over the skin until the level of skin that makes the wrinkle or scar less visible is reached. After the procedure, the resurfaced skin is sometimes treated with a protective cream or ointment, and bandages may be used for the first five to ten days to cover and protect the treated area.

How long does the actual laser resurfacing procedure last?
Depending on the size of the area being treated, laser resurfacing procedures can take anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour to complete. Some patients may require more than one session.

Is laser resurfacing a painful procedure?
The procedure itself should not be painful as some form of anesthesia will be used. After the procedure, it's normal to experience some discomfort, which can be controlled with medication prescribed by your doctor.

Will I be able to drive myself home after the laser resurfacing procedure?
If you are receiving tranquilizers or sedation for your treatment, you should arrange to have someone drive you home afterward.

What is the recovery after laser resurfacing like?
Some mild swelling and discomfort after the procedure is common, and this can be controlled using ice packs and medication prescribed by your doctor. A bandage may be worn over the treated area for about a week, and after its removal a thin layer of ointment may be applied to the skin. Your doctor should give you specific instructions on washing and caring for your skin. Crusts will form over the treated areas and it's important that you not pick these off or scarring may result. The crusts typically fade within ten days after the procedure. The face can be bright pink to red for several weeks, and some pinkness may remain for up to six months. Makeup can typically be work after two weeks. The skin will be sensitive to sun and should not be exposed to the sun for six to twelve months.

How much time will I need to take off from work after my laser resurfacing procedure?
Most patients are able to return to work within about two weeks after the procedure. Light sun exposure can resume after six to twelve months.

When can I run or lift weights after laser resurfacing?
More strenuous activities like running may be resumed within four to six weeks after the procedure. Light sun exposure may be resumed within six to twelve months after the procedure.

What are the risks or complications of laser resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing can involve the following potential risks: abnormal color changes, burns or injuries from the laser heat, cold sores, infection, and scarring.

How much does laser resurfacing cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average surgeon/physician fee charged by their member doctors for laser resurfacing in 2004 was $2117. In Canada the cost of full face laser is $6000.00 and for both cheeks is $4500.00.  Being a surgeon/physician fee only, this does not include other related expenses, such as those for the anesthesiologist and the facility.

Does insurance cover laser resurfacing?
OHIP does not cover laser skin resurfacing.

Is it possible to get financing for laser resurfacing?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a surgeon for my laser resurfacing procedure?
It's important that you do your homework and carefully choose the surgeon to perform your laser resurfacing procedure. Not all practitioners will have the same degree of skill and experience with laser use. First, make sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• Does the surgeon have privileges to perform in an accredited hospital and, if so, which hospitals?
• How many laser resurfacing procedures has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• Is the surgical facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

Is there anything that needs to be done to prepare for laser resurfacing?
Your surgeon should advise you during your consultation of any special preparations. Some individuals may need to undergo a pre-treatment plan to prepare the skin for resurfacing.

How long do the results of laser resurfacing last?
Laser resurfacing results are typically long lasting, though the procedure cannot stop the aging process. As the skin ages, new wrinkles and expression lines may form.