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As one of the most exciting and innovative scientific achievements of the decade, Laser technology is being utilized throughout the health care community. Dr. Guyette has several Laser options to treat sun damaged skin, facial wrinkles and scars in a procedure called laser skin resurfacing.
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Before
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After
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What is laser?
The word "laser" is an acronym, which stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A surgical laser, such as the Carbon Dioxide Laser, is a single wavelength beam of light capable of removing unwanted tissue, such as scarred, wrinkled, and aging skin. The laser vaporizes skin cells by emitting bursts of radiation that are absorbed by water in these cells. Laser light penetrates to a very precise, controlled depth, making the procedure safe and predictable, while reducing the risk of scarring or pigmentation problems. Laser skin resurfacing is bloodless, and is performed in our office, under IV Sedation. As a benefit of this treatment, your skin appears more youthful, with fewer wrinkles and imperfections.
What areas can be treated through laser resurfacing?
The laser is used to reduce tiny wrinkles, acne scars and other minor skin imperfections, especially around the mouth and eyes. It can improve sun damaged and acne scarred skin, problems which often cause concern to both men and women.
Benefits of Treatment
Laser resurfacing can be used as an alternative to chemical peel and dermabrasion. The benefits of using this technique are that there is less pain and a faster recovery time. In most cases, it is also less costly.
Before Surgery – The Consultation
Prior to surgery, you and Dr. Guyette will discuss your goals for facial improvement. After determining the most appropriate procedure, we will fully describe the procedure, what results to expect and the costs.
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Preoperative Instructions for Patients Undergoing Intravenous (IV) Anesthesia
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- The paitent may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for six (6) hours prior to the appointment except to take your normal medication or medication prescribed by our office.
- A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and drive the patient home after the procedure.
- The patient should not drive a vehicle for 24 hours following anesthesia or for 4 hours after taking narcotic pain medication.
- Wear loose fitting clothing with short-sleeved shirts or sleeves, which can be rolled up past the elbow. Contact lenses, jewelry and dentures should be removed before the time of surgery.
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The Procedure
IV Sedation and a local anesthetic are given to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. The area is cleansed and draped. Dr. Guyette directs the laser beam toward your skin imperfections. The laser quickly and accurately vaporizes layers of skin just four or five cells in thickness.
What can be expected?
In most cases, only one treatment is needed. The initial redness fades in a few weeks to a light pink, which can be camouflaged with cosmetics. The discoloration usually disappears in 1-3 months but could be longer. The goal of laser resurfacing is to enhance facial skin texture and appearance. Expectations by the patient must be realistic, and results should be anticipated as improvements rather than total corrections. Results of the surgery depend on many factors such as the size, shape and location of the imperfection and the patient's heritage, age and general skin condition. Laser Resurfacing is frequently performed with other procedures like Face Lift and Eyelid Surgery.
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