LASER SKIN RESURFACING HOUSTON

WHAT IS LASER SKIN RESURFACING?

Lumenis® ResurFX™ fractional resurfacing produces great results with minimal recovery. This is in contrast to CO2 laser resurfacing where the top layer of the skin is ablated, creating several days of fairly involved recovery. Lumenis® ResurFX™ delivers firmer, tighter skin with even texture and tone.

Lumenis® ResurFX™ is fractional skin resurfacing, meaning only a fraction of the skin surface is treated. Laser energy is used to create hundreds of microchannels through the epidermis down into the dermis, the skin’s second layer. When the laser’s light energy enters the dermis, it converts to heat. The body perceives this heat as a “wound” and a wound-healing response is triggered. This involves remodeling of collagen in the area and production of new collagen and elastin. This improves skin texture and firmness. New skin cells are also created to aid in the “wound” healing.

The minute punctures on the skin surface also heal, improving texture. This happens very quickly because the skin surrounding the microchannels is untouched by the laser energy, and the healthy skin goes about helping heal the adjacent perforations. They heal within a few hours, improving skin texture on stretch marks and scars.

RESURFX PROCEDURE

When you come in for your ResurFX® treatment, about one hour prior to your laser session we apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment areas.

Next, the ResufFX® laser scanner is set to a random pattern. It then delivers laser pulses automatically over the treatment area while the handpiece is placed over the skin. The laser delivers heat to a certain depth of the skin and the sensation is warm and prickly (hence the local anesthetic).

The topical numbing cream keeps you comfortable during the Lumenis® ResurFX™ procedure. A session usually takes just 15-30 minutes.

WHAT DOES THE ACNE SCAR TREATMENT FEEL LIKE?

Patients tell us the experience of the laser energy on their skin creates a warm or prickling sensation as the bursts of laser energy are delivered. The procedure is not painful thanks to the topical anesthetic.

WHAT DOES LASER SKIN RESURFACING HELP TREAT?

The ResurFX system is tailored to address various signs of skin aging. We use it to treat these skin issues:

• Uneven pigmentation
• Sun and age spots
• Stretch marks
• Uneven skin tone
• Acne scars
• Fine wrinkles and lines
• Loose skin

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY?

You will have some swelling and redness for a few days after your treatment. You will also have to avoid sun exposure, as your skin will be vulnerable for a couple of weeks. These issues will pass quickly, and you’ll soon notice your skin appears firmer and younger-looking. This will continue to improve as the body produces more and more collagen. The Lumenis® ResurFX™ is a good procedure to have on a Thursday or Friday, as by Monday most redness and swelling has calmed down.

HOW MANY LASER SKIN TREATMENTS DO I NEED?

We find that patients typically opt for 3-5 ResurFX™ treatments, as the new collagen and elastin continues to build. Treatments are spaced one month apart.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?

Results are not immediate, as the body needs to produce new collagen. You’ll see results beginning in a week or two and they will continue to build as your skin firms.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

The Lumenis® ResurFX™ has been cleared for use by the FDA. Since this procedure is non-ablative, it is extremely well tolerated by our patients. As with any procedure, there are some rare risks that we will discuss with you prior to treatment. ResurFX is safe and comfortable.

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR RESURFX LASER SKIN RESURFACING?

Typically, the best candidates for a ResurFX treatment are those who are looking for subtle brightening and evening of skin tone and texture. Acne scars, pigment problems, age spots, lax skin, fine lines, and wrinkles can all be improved.