| Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers were among the earliest lasers developed for the treatment of wrinkles and other cosmetic skin problems. Because of their effectiveness, they remain in widespread use today. These devices have been greatly improved over the years. The newest generation of CO2 lasers deliver short bursts of very targeted high-energy laser light. Erbium Lasers: For Mild to Moderate WrinklesErbium lasers are designed to treat superficial and moderately deep lines and wrinkles — on the hands and chest as well as on the face. Side effects are often less than with CO2 lasers, and recovery time also tends to be slightly shorter. What to Expect Ablative laser skin resurfacing is not a procedure to undertake lightly. It requires a local anesthesia, and most patients are given a sedative as well. The treated area receives a burn, which causes the skin to weep for several days and then, possibly, crust (much like a moderate-to-severe sunburn). You'll need to cover the treated area with a special ointment and dressing continuously for several weeks. You may also need pain medication. Most people stay out of public view for 7 to 10 days after the treatment, although for some the healing process is even longer. Some people remain pink for up to three months, and others, for reasons yet unknown, develop permanent whitening of the skin months after the treatment. Greater Risks for People with Darker Skin For people with darker shades of skin, ablative laser skin resurfacing can be very risky. They may not only experience decreased pigmentation (patches of whitening) as a result of the treatment, but also increased pigmentation (patches of darkening). If you have darker skin, be sure to ask if your physician has experience treating people with your skin type. Some treatments and some devices may not be appropriate for you. Risks vs. Benefits As with all things, the greater the risks, the greater the rewards. Many people certainly feel that way about ablative laser skin resurfacing. But it's very important that you understand all the risks involved with this procedure — and that you're ready to take on the substantial after-care responsibilities during the recovery process. You may decide that one of the non-ablative skin rejuvenation procedures would be a better treatment choice for you. The Importance of an Experienced Physician Your physician will discuss all these issues with you. If you decide to undergo ablative laser skin resurfacing, be sure your physician is very experienced using lasers to resurface and rejuvenate the skin. The skill of your physician can have a big impact on the outcome of the procedure. Last modified: November 17, 2009 |