Laser Treatements

Today you have a variety of options when it comes to rejuvenating your appearance. One of the newest is laser resurfacing, which can reduce facial wrinkles, scars and blemishes. Newer laser technologies give your plastic surgeon a new level of control in laser surfacing, permitting extreme precision, especially in delicate areas.

It’s all about using beams of light. Laser skin resurfacing is also known as a laser peel, laser vaporization or lasabrasion. Your surgeon uses the laser to send short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin. This removes unwanted, damaged skin in a very precise manner one layer at a time. This targeted approach means there are fewer problems with hypopigmentation, or a lightening of skin for procedures such as laser acne scar removal.

The laser beam used in laser resurfacing will remove your outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. It simultaneously heats the underlying skin, called the dermis. This action works to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers. As the treated area heals, the new skin that forms is smoother and firmer.

Laser resurfacing can improve minor facial flaws, such as:

• Fine lines or wrinkles around or under your eyes, forehead or mouth
• Scars from acne or chickenpox
• Non-responsive skin after a facelift
• Aged or sun-damaged skin
• Liver spots
• Improve your complexion if you have yellowish or grayish skin tones
• Warts
• Birthmarks such as linear epidermal nevi
• Enlarged oil glands on the nose

Dr. Hisaka uses CO2 Lasers for skin resurfacing. The fractionated CO2 laser reduces the down time to a few days. CO2 lasers are most commonly used to treat the fine lines around the eyes and mouth.

He will often use a non-laser dermabrader for more superficial skin problems like wide pores. He uses Intense Pulse Light treatments for aging spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation. Dr. Hisaka has access to almost every type of laser used in the cosmetic field.

What To Expect

For best results, your plastic surgeon may first start you on a series of skin treatments to prepare your skin for your laser procedure. Often these treatments begin 6 weeks or more before your scheduled procedure. These skin treatments are customized for your particular skin type to minimize complications and obtain the best result from your laser resurfacing.

Cosmetic laser resurfacing is usually done on an outpatient basis and typically takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

Managing your discomfort: Laser skin resurfacing can be painful. This is why your doctor may numb the skin with local anesthetics. You may also receive a sedative to help you relax. If you are opting for extensive resurfacing, or if you’re having other cosmetic procedures simultaneously, your surgeon may use a general anesthetic. Afterwards, the doctor will provide painkillers to keep you comfortable. In preparation, your face will be thoroughly cleaned and you might be given eye protection.