Laser Skin Resurfacing

Technological advances in medicine have afforded great improvements in the methods used to treat patients heading into the 21st Century. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in the field of plastic surgery. One of the newest and most revolutionary technical advances in plastic surgery is the advent of laser skin resurfacing. We are all painfully aware of the ravages of ultraviolet radiation and gravity on the exposed skin of the body, most prominently the face and hands. Historically these problems were addressed with deep chemical peels or dermabrasion procedures. The laser has afforded a less painful, bloodless method with a generally faster recovery time compared to these other procedures. Your expectations regarding your laser resurfacing should be realistic. There will generally be improvement in all aspects of your skin appearance. Deeper wrinkles and scars, however, will not be completely erased. These problems should be pointed out and discussed with Dr. Miller or Mary Lee Cudd before embarking on surgery that may not meet your expectations. The overall result is dependent on many factors, including the size, shape and location of the skin imperfection, your age, heredity and general skin conditions, i.e., extent of sun damage.

The actual laser surgery is safely performed in our offices. Generally, a local anesthetic is used. The laser beam is passed over the treatment area, accurately removing skin layer by layer. The overall procedure results in less wrinkles visible immediately on completion of the surgery. The eventual result is usually that of a more natural, even-colored, rejuvenated skin. Fees for the procedure vary widely depending on the extent of the procedure. They should be discussed prior to your procedure. As with any procedure, regardless of how minor, certain risks exist. These again should be discussed carefully and thoroughly during your consultation with Dr. Miller or Mary Lee Cudd.

Overall, the results of laser skin resurfacing are predictable, relatively risk free and to date, long lasting. The aging process, however, is never completely halted and you may require further rejuvenating procedures, either as a maintenance program or several years down the road.

Consult Dr. Miller or Mary Lee Cudd at Fayetteville Plastic Surgery for a complete consultation regarding laser skin resurfacing and how it may improve your self confidence and restore a more youthful appearance to your skin.