Laser Skin Resurfacing in Toronto

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Laser Resurfacing, Toronto

This is a technique in which the laser vaporizes
the outer layers of skin improving wrinkles and
scarring of the face. The Erbium laser is less
aggressive to the skin and treats shallower lines
and scars that are irregular and pitted. The CO2
laser treats the deeper lines and acne scarring. It is excellent for resurfacing lower eyelid and upper lip wrinkling. By 2 weeks patients are socially acceptable with make up or camouflage. The pinkness usually disappears by 6 weeks with the Erbium laser and by 3 months with the CO2 laser.

Additional Information About Laser Resurfacing

The best candidate for laser resurfacing is a man or woman who is physically healthy, realistic in their expectations, and looking to improve the appearance of fine wrinkles, facial scars and/or areas of uneven pigmentation. This procedure may not be appropriate for some patients with olive skin, brown skin or black skin as they may be at an increased risk for pigmentation changes.

View patient photos Read the laser resurfacing FAQs Contact us about skin resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and can take place in a hospital, an outpatient surgical center, or a surgeon's office-based facility. Local anesthesia combined with sedation is most often used, though general anesthesia may be used in some cases. Depending upon the size of the area being treated, the procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to one and a half hours to complete. In some cases, more than one session may be required.

Patients typically experience some mild swelling and discomfort after the procedure which can be controlled with pain medication prescribed by your doctor and by applying ice packs. Redness can last for several weeks to several months, though makeup can be worn after about two weeks to help conceal this. Most patients are able to return to work within about two weeks after surgery. More strenuous activities will need to be avoided for four to six weeks, and sun exposure should be avoided for several months.

The potential complications that can occur with laser resurfacing include abnormal changes in skin color, burns or other heat-related injuries, infection, and scarring. Other laser surgery includes Laser Hair Removal.