Laser Skin Resurfacing in Frisco, TX

Laser skin resurfacing at Najera Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses pulsating beams of light to eliminate dead and damaged skin layers. The treatment is used for addressing facial lines and wrinkles and for minimizing skin flaws, including acne scars, pigmentation, fine lines, texture, tone, and other issues. Also known as a laser peel, laser skin resurfacing is an ideal procedure for patients desiring softer, clearer, youthful-looking skin. Depending on the condition of the skin type, the laser may be adjusted accordingly. There is some downtime required with most laser skin resurfacing facials, but this is discussed in the consultation, depending on your specific skin needs. At the Frisco, TX plastic surgery center of Dr. Robert Najera, we are proud to offer ResurFX, a fractional, non-ablative laser manufactured by Lumenis, which helps to create a beautiful facial glow. 

To understand the cosmetic world of lasers, it helps to know the types and how they treat your skin. Some are performed for milder cases of skin damage while others are more aggressive:

• Ablative Laser Treatments
  Ablative lasers treat thin layers of skin, like a deep chemical peel or dermabrasion, with a precision that allows the technician to reduce skin damage. Ablative lasers are best for firming the skin and treating wrinkles and acne scars.
• Non-Ablative Laser Treatments
  Non-ablative lasers do not remove any skin — the light from the laser simply makes micro-damage to the skin to encourage natural skin healing. Non-ablative facials are great for addressing fine lines and wrinkles on patients who are able to wait 2 – 3 months for strong results.
• Fractional Laser Treatments
  Fractional lasers are both ablative and non-ablative that create small holes in the deeper layers of the skin. The skin's self-healing process creates tighter, firmer, and healthier skin. Fractional lasers may also be performed to treat fine lines, acne scarring, sun damage, and pigmentation issues.

At Najera Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, ResurFX is of the fractional and non-ablative type. It can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including skin discoloration, mild acne and surgical scars, fine to moderate wrinkles, and can diminish and lighten stretch marks. ResurFX takes laser skin resurfacing one step further by penetrating the lower layers of skin to stimulate collagen production without damaging the skin’s surface.

ResurFX by Lumenis offers a number of advantages. It works faster than some lasers in one pass over the skin without damaging the skin's surface. It is less painful, requires minimal downtime, and it can be combined with other nonsurgical treatments, such as BOTOX or fillers, for an overall rejuvenated appearance.

There are multiple factors to think about when selecting which laser peel procedure is right for your needs. Laser skin resurfacing is ideal for people who are unhappy with their skin's appearance. If you have skin damaged by the sun, acne scars, age spots, wrinkles and fine lines, redness, or pigmentation troubles, a laser peel treatment can be helpful to improve these complexion blemishes. In addition, a laser peel works well for those who have scaly patches, rough texture, or other irregularities. This treatment is not recommended if you have very dark skin or active acne. Additionally, it is important to know that there is downtime associated with these laser treatments. Some patients, depending on the condition of their skin, may need up to 2 – 3 weeks for their skin to normalize.

Before you have a deeper or more intense laser peel treatment, you may be asked to use a retinoid product for a few weeks before your laser peel. This helps prepare the skin for more effective results. Medication will be suggested prior to the treatment to help lessen any pain for increased comfort during your session. If your skin needs mild correction, a topical anesthetic will be used to numb certain areas where the laser will target. For the full face or more intense laser treatments, some kind of sedation may be required. During the procedure, you will relax in our treatment chair while the laser glides over the skin, precisely targeting the needed surfaces for rejuvenation. You will feel the heat of the laser followed by cold air from the built-in cooling system. The laser works to remove damaged and dead skin cells while also stimulating new collagen production.

Following lighter peels, a healing ointment will be applied to the skin and you can return home to recover. The skin will appear red and there will be some irritation and swelling. This should subside within a couple of days and the peeling process will last over a 3 – 5-day timeframe. If you are getting a more intense laser treatment, your recovery time will last longer. The treated areas will most likely be covered by dressings and the burning, irritation, and swelling symptoms will be stronger. Medication can be prescribed to lessen these side effects. The recovery period associated with a deeper laser treatment can last 2 – 3 weeks. All patients should minimize their sun exposure after their laser peel and apply sun protection throughout the day. For all laser peel treatments, the skin will naturally flake, crust, and peel away. It is crucial to avoid interfering with the healing process to evade scarring and to protect your skin from environmental exposure. Once the peeling process has been completed, your skin will feel softer while looking rejuvenated, clearer, and younger.

How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
Laser skin resurfacing costs vary based on the treatment you get. In your consultation, Dr. Najera will ask about your skin problems and goals before reviewing the different types of resurfacing treatments. Then, he can help you decide on your resurfacing method and discuss costs. Najera Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery often has treatment specials and discounted packages so ask about current specials during your consultation.

What's the best type of resurfacing for me?
Dr. Najera will help you decide which laser resurfacing treatment will best meet your needs and goals during your consultation. The best treatment for you will depend on the condition of your skin, your skin issues, and how deep you want your treatment to go. How long you are willing to give your recovery may also be a deciding factor when choosing your treatment type. When in doubt, it's best to select a lighter treatment to see how you like your results and adjust as needed for your next treatment.

How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?
Dr. Najera or a member of his team will give you recommendations on how you can help your skin heal after a laser resurfacing treatment. The top rule is don't pick or peel your skin. This could create lasting damage, including scars. You should skip all hair removal methods in the treatment area, which means no shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams. We will recommend an ointment to help soothe and heal your skin.

Should I get laser skin resurfacing, a chemical peel, or dermabrasion?
After listening to your skin problems, Dr. Najera will help you decide if laser skin resurfacing, a chemical peel, or a dermabrasion treatment will achieve your goals. While they all improve the surface of the skin, each has its own benefits and drawbacks. During your consultation, Dr. Najera can review each option and make a recommendation for your treatment.

How often should I get laser resurfacing treatments?
Depending on the resurfacing options you and Dr. Najera select for your treatment, you may need to wait several weeks or even months between appointments. Deeper treatments will provide longer-lasting results but will require a lengthy recovery period. You should talk to Dr. Najera about how often you are willing to come back for treatments so he can take this into account when choosing a type of resurfacing during your consultation.

A laser skin resurfacing peel offers amazing results if you want a younger-looking complexion. If you are curious about a laser treatment and would like to learn more about them, as well as other nonsurgical procedures Najera Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery offers, we invite you to call our office in Frisco, TX today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Najera.