When it comes to treatments of the skin, laser is thought to be the new dermabrasion. It is fast, precise, the error rate is extremely low, and the results can be ascertained within minutes. The methodology of procedures affecting the skin is simple: the top layer of the skin is blistered and thus may be removed while the layers underneath will revel smoother, younger looking skin that is devoid of the blemishes the patient does not wish to see any longer.
Yet there are some questions to ask before undergoing treatment of your skin – laser like – or you might be in for some unwelcome surprises.
- When the upper most layer of skin is removed, the layer that lies beneath it will be markedly pink. This is normal, but if you have a social engagement coming up, you need to know for how long? After all, the pink skin – which is due in part because you are looking at the soft, underlying layer of skin – is very sensitive and may not respond well to being covered with makeup. Although patients are advised that they can be up and about within just a few hours, the pink appearance of your skin may last up to four or more weeks. Add to this that the skin will be highly sensitive to sun exposure, and you know that it might be a few months before you can vacation in sunny Southern California or endure the winds of the Alaskan wilderness.
- Every surgery has side effects and skin laser treatments are no exception. Even though the risk of scarring and infection is greatly minimized when compared to dermabrasion and chemical peels, there is the possibility of having the new layer of skin darkening faster than the surrounding skin. It is interesting to note that this is a side effect that may be avoided by judicious application of sunscreen, but it requires a thorough explanation.
- Does the laser surgeon have extensive experience and proper credentials? In a day and age when the evening news frequently showcases stories of those practicing cosmetic surgery without a license or the proper experience, it is vital to know whom you are dealing with. Background, education, and also time in practice are all deciding factors to know of prior to undergoing the treatment.
- Know what to expect from skin laser centers. Miracles will not happen, but a marked improvement of the condition that sent you to the surgeon’s office should be part and parcel of the experience. Even more important, know what to expect on the road to healing. You want to know if a certain pinkness you are seeing, some blotchiness, or maybe even some light discoloration is normal and just part of the process or grounds for concern requiring an immediate call to the doctor, even if it is the middle of the night.
Sure, none of the answers to these questions guarantee that your treatment will be successful, but they will most certainly set your mind at ease and set you up for the maximum amount of success!
