Today, there are a variety of options when it comes to rejuvenating your appearance. And, one of the most recent is laser treatment, which can reduce facial wrinkles, scars and blemishes. The latest laser technologies give the plastic surgeon a new level of control in laser treatments, allowing for extreme precision, especially in sensitive areas. The surgeon uses the laser to send short, concentrated beams of light to uneven skin. This procedure removes damaged skin in a very precise manner, one layer at a time. This approach allows there to be fewer problems with hypopigmentation, or skin lightening for procedures such as laser acne scar removal.
The laser beam used in laser treatment removes the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis, and simultaneously heats the underlying skin, called the dermis. This action stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. As the treated area heals, the new skin that forms will be smoother and firmer.

• Fine lines and wrinkles around or under the eyes, forehead and mouth;
• Scars from acne or chickenpox;
• Skin that did not show good results after the facelift;
• Aging or sun-damaged skin;
• Yellowish or grayish skin;
• Warts;
• Birthmarks.

It may not be a good option if you have:
• Acne;
• Very dark skin;
• Deep wrinkles;
• Excess or sagging skin.

Patients with darker skin are at greater risk of scarring occurring with dark pigmentation (hyperpigmentation).

Important: Perform the procedure with a qualified plastic surgeon. In the wrong or inexperienced hands, laser resurfacing can be dangerous.

For the best results to be obtained, additional skin treatments must be performed to prepare the skin for the laser procedure. Often, these treatments begin six weeks or more before the scheduled procedure. These skin treatments are customized for your skin type and to minimize complications. The procedure takes 30 minutes to two hours.

Laser skin resurfacing can be painful. Therefore, the doctor can numb the skin with local anesthetics. You can also take a sedative to help you relax. If you undergo comprehensive resurfacing, or if other cosmetic procedures are performed simultaneously, the surgeon may choose to use general anesthetic. Then, the surgeon will give you pain medication to keep you comfortable. In preparation for the procedure, your face will be thoroughly cleaned and you will be provided with eye protection.
Two types of lasers are commonly used in laser resurfacing: carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium.

Doctors have been using CO2 lasers to treat various skin conditions for years. A new generation of CO2 lasers emits continuous beams of light, precisely removing thin layers of skin causing minimal damage to surrounding tissue.

This type of wrinkle removal is typically used to remove superficial and moderately deep wrinkles and lines on the face, and can also be used on the neck, chest and hands.

After the procedure is complete, the plastic surgeon will apply specific dressings to protect the treated skin. Dressing changes or topical treatments may be necessary to improve healing.

Skin that is treated with a laser can react in different ways. But most of the time, the sensation will be a mild burn. There will be some redness and swelling. You may also feel itchy or burning for a few days after the procedure.
Depending on the treatment, some people may have what looks like a severe burn. The skin will be swollen and blisters may form. A yellow liquid may ooze from the treated areas to form a crust. Typically, within five days to a week after laser resurfacing, the skin will become dry and peel.

• Acne;
• Bacterial infection;
• Hyperpigmentation;
• Prolonged redness;
• Scar;
• Swelling.

• Elevate your head with an extra pillow at night;
• Apply ice (with appropriate protection) during the first day to relieve swelling and discomfort;
• Quit smoking. Smoking makes the healing process difficult.

CO2 laser resurfacing: Usually up to two weeks.
Erbium laser resurfacing: One week.

It is possible that your skin will be red or pink for several months after the procedure. The skin may also become more sensitive to sunlight for up to a year. You need to use sunscreen daily and reduce sun exposure.
Some people who undergo laser treatment can see an immediate difference in the treated skin. The improvement process continues for up to a year. Although the effects of laser treatment last for many years, the normal aging process causes wrinkles and fine lines to reappear. The treatment can be repeated if necessary.

Cost is always a consideration in elective surgery. A surgeon's fees may vary depending on their experience and the type of procedure performed.

When choosing a plastic surgeon to perform the procedure, remember that the surgeon's experience and your good relationship with him or her are as important as the final cost of the surgery.

Use this list as a guide during your consultation:
• Are you a specialist by the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery?
• Have you been trained specifically in the field of plastic surgery?
• Is the installation of the surgical center in your office authorized by the Health Surveillance?
• How many procedures of this type have you performed?
• Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
• What is expected of me so that the best results are obtained?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• What is the recovery time and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
• What are the risks and complications associated with this procedure?
• How are complications treated?