|
Luxor Superpulsed CO2 Laser Resurfacing
What is the Luxor CO2 laser and what can it do?
The Luxor carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a type of laser which emits an invisible infrared beam of light. Water in the skin absorbs this laser energy producing thermal damage and causing tissue destruction. The laser beam can be delivered in two ways. When the laser beam is delivered in short bursts, only the upper layers of the skin are destroyed. This causes the skin to be resurfaced, improving facial lines, sun damage, wrinkles and scarring. When the laser beam is continuous, it may be used to treat warts, keloids and other skin growths.
What results can I expect from the procedure?
Although laser surgery can be very effective, it has its limitations. The best results are seen in fair-skinned individuals. Patient variability makes it difficult to predict exact results with accuracy. Most patients are pleased with the results, but we cannot guarantee complete success in the treatment of a specific lesion or condition.
How does the skin look following laser resurfacing?
After treatment, the skin is usually pink to red in color and covered with a fine white crust which is left on to protect the healing skin. There may also be some oozing. Over the next couple of weeks, as the skin regenerates it will feel smooth. The reddish discoloration will remain for weeks or months before your skin returns to its normal color. Makeup can be applied as soon as the crust disappears.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anesthesia will be administered to minimize pain and in more extensive cases, premedication with pain and/or sedatives may be necessary.
Where is the laser procedure performed?
Co2 laser surgery is performed in the Livingston Office.
What should I do before laser resurfacing?
Avoid taking aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for a period of one week before laser treatment. If you are taking anticoagulants such as Coumadin or have blood clotting problems, please let your physician know. In addition, avoid sun exposure during the four weeks before treatment because increased pigment may interfere with the efficacy of the treatment.
How should I care for the treated area after the procedure?
After the laser procedure, your physician will apply an antibiotic ointment and sterile dressing. Wash the area with a mild cleanser and then liberally apply Aquaphor ointment. While the area is healing, it is essential that you avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
What are the risks of laser resurfacing?
Carbon dioxide laser surgery has been performed for many years and no long-term side effects have been noted. In addition, there is no evidence that the proper amount of CO2 infrared energy has any harmful effects on the body. However, all laser surgery has some degree of risk. Possible side-effects of using the CO2 laser include increased or decreased pigmentation at the site of the treatment, pain, bleeding, scarring and infection. These can be minimized by proper post-operative care.
What does laser resurfacing cost?
The cost of laser surgery will be quoted to you prior to treatment.
Will my insurance company reimburse me for these procedures?
Laser resurfacing is considered a cosmetic procedure and will not be covered by insurance.
|
