Using Laser Resurfacing Treatment For Acne Scars
Laser resurfacing, or to give it its other name a laser peel, is a technique which is often carried out to improve the appearance of the fine lines which can often be found around the mouth and eyes. It may also be used to treat acne scarring as well as other scars or uneven coloration of the skin. The resurfacing by laser can be confined to a small area of the skin or can even be used as a full-face treatment. It may be performed on its own, but is frequently combined with other procedures for example surgery on the eyelids or facelifts.
The benefits of the laser resurfacing procedure are usually greater than those of other skin rejuvenation treatments. It is frequently the best procedure to give an overall improvement of skin which has been chronically photo-damaged. Scarring which occurs as a result of severe acne is a cosmetic disfigurement which can give rise to psychological issues for the sufferer. Many of these scars can be effectively treated using laser scar resurfacing.
The resurfacing procedure utilises a beam of light from a carbon dioxide laser. The intention is to vaporize the layers of scarred and damaged skin at specific and controllable levels of penetration. A major benefit of laser resurfacing is the fact that it causes less bruising, bleeding, and also less post-operative discomfort than is the case with other methods of skin resurfacing.
Prior to having laser resurfacing treatment, you should consult your doctor for an assessment. This will determine if the treatment is suitable for you, and will include assessment of the areas of scarring. Your skin type will affect your suitability, e.g. dark skin is more often affected by pigmentation problems after the procedure. Full-face resurfacing will probably give excellent improvements in older skin which has been sun-damaged and in which seborrheic keratosis, lentigines and telangiectasias are more prevalent. CO2 lasers usually give good improvements in appearance whatever the scar type. For saucer-shaped distensible areas, it is usually the best option, however dermabrasion is usually the best treatment for pitted scars. Atrophic scars, hypertrophic scars and traumatic scars also respond well to laser resurfacing. Laser resurfacing may also help to blend in the scar with the skin.
Undergoing laser resurfacing with a properly qualified and experienced surgeon will reduce the likelihood of having complications. However, it must be said that the results of the surgery are not completely guaranteed. Some risks associated with the surgery are: burns caused by the heat generated by the laser, scarring, and excessive darkening or lightening of the treated areas of skin. Healing may also appear abnormal or can be slow. These risks can be greatly reduced by choosing a surgeon who specializes in laser surgery.