Laser Skin Resurfacing in Ashburn, VA

ABOUT LASER SKIN RESURFACING

Skin resurfacing with Cutera Laser Genesis and Fraxel technology at The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery is a noninvasive aesthetic treatment that utilizes pulsating beams of energy to eliminate dead and damaged skin cell layers. The procedure is used for addressing facial wrinkles and lines and for minimizing skin flaws, including pigmentation, acne scars, and other issues. Sometimes known as a laser peel, fractional skin resurfacing is considered an ideal procedure for people who want clearer, softer, younger-looking skin. Based on the needs of the patient’s skin type, the treatment may be customized for the best results. There is little recovery time required for most laser skin resurfacing facials. Any questions or concerns may be reviewed with Ashburn, VA board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael J. Brown during your assessment and consultation.

TYPES OF LASER TREATMENTS

The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery offers Laser Genesis and Fraxel laser resurfacing skin procedures that are selected, depending on your skin goals. Some are performed for milder cases of skin damage while others are more aggressive:

  • Cutera Laser Genesis
    Laser Genesis is an ideal treatment for diminishing scars, large pores, excessively red skin, and uneven skin texture. It works by using modern laser technology and creates results through noninvasive techniques. Laser Genesis works by heating the lower level of the skin known as the dermis. The dermis has both collagen and elastin proteins that affect the strength and tone of the skin. The heat from the laser forces more collagen to be created, which then repairs the look of the skin and makes it more youthful and smooth from the inside.
  • Fraxel
    Fractional laser treatments are a combination of non-ablative and ablative that make small holes in the deeper skin layers. The body’s self-healing process leads to firmer, healthier skin. The Fraxel fractional laser treatments can also be performed to help fine lines, sun damage, acne scars, and pigmentation issues. Since the Fraxel laser works on the microscopic level and is computer controlled, it can target very specific areas. It can create microscopic injuries below the surface, and these injuries are what prompt the body to rejuvenate itself as it heals. In the end, this reverses some signs of aging and skin imperfections.

IDEAL CANDIDATES

You have multiple factors to think about when selecting which laser peel procedure is best for your needs. Laser skin resurfacing is ideal for people who are unsatisfied with their skin’s appearance. If you notice skin damaged by the sun, age spots, acne scars, wrinkles and fine lines, pigmentation, or redness troubles, a laser peel procedure may be helpful to improve these complexion imperfections. Also, a laser peel can be beneficial for those who have rough texture, actinic keratosis, scaly patches, or other skin surface problems. A laser peel is not suggested for anyone who has very dark skin tones or active acne outbreaks. Additionally, it is important to know that there is a recovery period needed after laser treatments. Certain patients, based on their skin condition, may require as much as 2 – 3 weeks for their skin to normalize.

PROCEDURE TECHNIQUE

Before you are scheduled for a more intense or deep laser peel treatment, you may be given a retinoid product for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser peel. The retinoid helps prep the skin for more effective results. Medication may be suggested prior to the procedure to help lessen any pain for increased comfort throughout your appointment. If your complexion only needs mild improvement, a local anesthesia may be applied to numb treated areas of the face. For the entire complexion or deeper laser procedures, a kind of local anesthetic may be required. Throughout the procedure, you can relax in our special treatment chair while the laser handpiece passes over your skin, directly targeting the needed surfaces for rejuvenation. You may feel the heat of the laser followed with cold air from the system’s built-in cooling device. The laser energy is designed to remove damaged and dead skin cells while also prompting new collagen production.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Following laser skin resurfacing, the treated skin may look pink, and there may be some swelling and irritation. These symptoms subside in a few days, and the skin peeling process will occur over a 3 – 5-day period. Pain medication can be prescribed to lessen any painful symptoms. The recovery period for a more intense laser treatment may last several weeks. Every patient needs to minimize their UV exposure following their laser peel and use sun protection throughout the day. For all laser peel treatments, the treated skin will naturally crust, flake, and peel off. It’s crucial to avoid accelerating the recovery process to prevent scarring and to shield your skin from environmental exposure. After the peeling is finished, the treated skin should feel smoother while also appearing rejuvenated, younger, and clearer.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?

Your laser resurfacing cost will depend on the type of treatment you receive. During your initial consultation, Dr. Brown will ask about your skin issues and desired results before reviewing the types of laser resurfacing available. After this, he will help you decide on your resurfacing method and talk to you about costs. The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery regularly offers skin treatment specials and packages so ask about current specials in your appointment.

What is the best type of resurfacing for me?

Dr. Brown can help you choose which resurfacing option will best meet your concerns and goals in your initial consultation. The treatment that is best for you will depend on the condition of your skin, any skin issues, and the skin depth you want your treatment to reach. The length of recovery time might also be an important consideration when you create a treatment plan. If you are unsure, it is better to select a milder treatment, then assess your outcomes and decide if you want something stronger for your second appointment.

How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?

Dr. Brown or someone on his staff will give you tips on ways to speed skin healing following your treatment. The top rule is to not peel or pick flaking skin. Doing this can create long-term damage, like scars. You need to forgo all hair removal methods on the treated skin, which includes waxing, shaving, or depilatory creams. We can also suggest creams to help soothe treated areas.

Should I receive laser skin resurfacing, a chemical peel, or dermabrasion?

Once he has listened to your problems and goals, Dr. Brown will help you choose whether laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion, or a chemical will achieve your optimal results. Although all three rejuvenate your skin, each has pros and cons. In your initial consultation, Dr. Brown will review each choice and make a suggestion for your treatment plan.

How often should I get laser resurfacing treatments?

Based on the laser resurfacing options you and Dr. Brown choose for your procedure, you might need to wait several weeks or even a few months between treatments. With Fraxel, most conditions require anywhere from 3 – 5 treatments spaced about 2 – 4 weeks apart to treat effectively. You should tell Dr. Brown about how frequently you want to return for appointments so he can consider this when choosing a treatment plan in your initial consultation.

“Im so fortunate to be able to visit the Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery & Dermatology at least once every year. It’s my self indulgent splurge. And the results are amazing. My face is spotless (I grew up completely freckle faced… so you can imagine, aging in the Florida sun didn’t keep that looking cute); […]

- B.G. /

Oct 13, 2015 /

A SOFTER, CLEARER COMPLEXION

Your treatment with laser skin resurfacing provides amazing results if you are looking to experience a more youthful appearance. If you are curious about laser treatments and want to hear more information about their benefits, as well as additional nonsurgical procedures The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery performs, we encourage you to contact our office in Ashburn, VA today to make your appointment with Dr. Brown.

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