Laser Treatment Procedure performed by the New Me Institute™ include Laser Hair Removal, Laser Tattoo Removal, Laser Facial Resurfacing and other General Laser Surgery Procedures. Endermology, Micro-dermabrasion and other cosmetic procedures are also available at our practice.
Laser Resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. Often, the procedure is done in conjunction with another cosmetic operation, such as a Facelift or Eyelid Surgery. All resurfacing treatments work essentially the same way. First, the outer layers of damaged skin are stripped away. Then, as new cells form during the healing process, a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface appears.
The Consultation
During the initial consultation, the Surgeon will explain the factors that could influence the procedure and the results, such as any abnormal skin condition which has been diagnosed or previously treated, medications you are taking or have taken in the past, previous skin injuries or previous operations. The Surgeon will discuss your medical history, perform a routine examination and photograph the area(s) to be treated.
Cosmetic Laser Treatments are usually not covered by medical insurance. On rare occasions, however, the procedure can be used for modification of scars or the removal of pre-cancerous skin growths. These conditions could meet the criteria for "medical necessity," usually required by insurance companies before coverage will be provided. You should contact your insurance carrier to determine whether benefits will be allowed in such instances.
The Surgery
Laser Resurfacing is a relatively quick procedure. It usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to 1 1/2 hours, depending on how large of an area is involved. When the imperfections are especially deep, the Surgeon may recommend performing the Resurfacing in two or more stages.
During the procedure, the activated laser is carefully passed back and forth over the skin until the surgeon reaches the level that will make the wrinkle or scar less visible. When the procedure is over, your surgeon may choose to treat the resurfaced skin with applications of protective creams or ointments until healing is complete.
After the Surgery
You are likely to experience some mild swelling and discomfort after laser resurfacing. However, this can be controlled with ice packs and medications prescribed by the Surgeon. If a bandage was applied after your procedure, it may be replaced with a fresh one after a day or two. After about a week, the bandage will be removed and a thin layer of ointment may be applied to the skin. Once this stage is reached, the Surgeon will provide instructions on how to gently wash and care for your healing skin.
The New Me
Your new skin will usually remain bright pink to red in the weeks following the procedure. The surgeon may prescribe medications to make this color subside more rapidly. After about two weeks, most patients can safely apply makeup to conceal this temporary color change.
Once the pinkness fades, you will notice a significant improvement in the quality of your skin and a fresher, smoother appearance. The results will be long lasting, but not permanent, since your new skin is not immune to the effects of aging. However, if you follow the Surgeon's recommendations and apply adequate skin protection when in the sun, you will be able to enjoy your New Image for years to come. |
