Laser Skin Resurfacing Memphis
In the past, many doctors believed CO2 lasers were a one-stop solution to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and other skin flaws. However, more physicians and their patients choose Erbium Yag technology over CO2 lasers because of its impressive benefits, including safe and comfortable treatments.
The Science of Skin
Skin consists of several different layers. The epidermis is the outermost layer which is responsible for the skin’s look and health. It protects the body by continually working to renew itself, shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with new ones. This process slows down with age, causing skin to develop lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture and discoloration. Skin becomes dull, dry, and losses radiance. The dermis is the inner layer of the skin that contains collagen and elastin which help support the skin’s structure. Over time, degenerative changes in the dermal layer can reduce the amount of collagen and elastin. Due to this process, skin becomes thin and loose. Daily exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution, UV exposure, and smoke cause the skin to age rapidly. The laser system provides tissue tightening, wrinkle reduction, and skin texture improvement.
How Does Our Fractionated CO2 and Erbium Yag Laser System Work?
The laser system combines two of the most popular wavelengths, the fractionated Co2 and Erbium Yag, to provide superior skin resurfacing. The fractionated Co2 laser is ideal for deep skin resurfacing, while the Erbium Yag laser is excellent at superficial rejuvenation. The fractionated Co2 technology directs a grid pattern of tiny light pulses to the skin. Each pulse delivers a column of energy that can reach the dermal layer, where it stimulates a natural collagen renewal process. Also, a fractionated laser beam leaves small areas of untreated skin between treated spots. Strategically performing the procedure accelerates the healing process. Dr. Langsdon tailors each session to a specific need and allotted downtime. Treatment sensations vary from person to person. As the device delivers tiny pulses of light into the skin, most patients experience a warm feeling and an immediate tightening effect. Skin can have a mild sunburn sensation for a few days following the treatment.
The Erbium Yag technology produces a beam of laser light that precisely and gently removes the outer layers of aged and sun- damaged tissue. This effective treatment stimulates skin cell turnover and promotes the formation of collagen and elastin fibers that will strengthen the skin. The overall result is a naturally healthy, rejuvenated, and smooth appearance on the skin. A complete facial treatment takes about 20 to -30 minutes. Depending upon your skin condition, you may need a series of appointments.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery
Erbium Yag lasers require a quicker recovery compared to CO2 lasers because of the minor wounds they create. Furthermore, this advanced laser technology delivers reduced thermal damage to the adjacent skin tissues, allowing for faster healing compared to the deeper injuries and more significant thermal damage CO2 lasers produce.
Though Erbium Yag lasers don’t penetrate as deeply as CO2 lasers, they can produce similar benefits by increasing pulse duration and limiting risk. However, a CO2 system will not replicate an Erbium Yag system’s success without increasing the risk of potential complications. The Erbium Yag laser’s pulse formats and energy capabilities are flexible and make it a desirable alternative to the time-tested CO2 laser for ablative and fractional treatments
Request a Consultation
If you have any questions or wish to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Langsdon, please contact our office.
*** Please contact our laser specialist before scheduling a consultation as the laser treatments are not recommended for individuals with darker pigmented skin.***
Memphis Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs
Yes. Acne scarring needs a tailored and comprehensive approach to help improve your complexion. Everyone has a unique acne scarring pattern, so individualized treatment is necessary for optimal results. We can adjust our laser devices to meet your scar removing needs, but it is best to have an acne scarring consultation before deciding on the treatment protocols.
We are happy to show you pictures of previous patients’ results during your confidential, in-person consultation.
As laser treatments are highly customizable, we tailor all treatment plans to our patients’ specific skin rejuvenation needs. During your private consultation, we will provide a more accurate quote for your Co2 laser resurfacing cost in Memphis.
Scars may take up to one year to completely heal. But our Erbium Yag lasers can resolve redness and improve texture faster. To learn how lasers can address your skin issue, it’s best to consult with a skin expert like a plastic surgeon or licensed esthetician.
Laser skin resurfacing recovery depends greatly on the initial condition of your skin and the depth of the laser treatment. Typically, patients who require medium-depth laser skin resurfacing treatments can expect approximately 5 to 7 days of social downtime. For those who require more aggressive laser skin resurfacing treatments to achieve their ideal results, social downtime usually lasts 8 to 12 days before resuming most normal activities.
During your recovery from laser skin resurfacing in Memphis, it’s important to expect redness, swelling, and flaking or peeling. These effects typically peak 2 to 3 days after treatment and resolve gradually, revealing your fresh, healthy skin. Recovery depends on the depth of the laser resurfacing treatment and your body’s healing abilities.
Most patients will see an immediate difference in the treated skin and see continued improvements for up to a year as the skin rebuilds collagen. Memphis laser skin resurfacing results can last several years by thoroughly following aftercare instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure, following an appropriate skincare routine, and having regular maintenance treatments.
To achieve the best results from your Memphis laser skin resurfacing procedure, it’s important to prepare your skin well in advance of your treatment. While we will provide thorough pre-procedure instructions based on your treatment and your skin’s condition, here are a few general tips to prepare your skin before any Co2 laser treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks before treatment.
- Discuss your medications with your laser skin resurfacing provider. Avoid medications that may cause photosensitivity for at least 72 hours before treatment. Stop taking blood-thinning medications or supplements for 1 to 2 weeks before treatment.
- Be gentle with your skin at least a week before treatment. Avoid exfoliation treatments and products with retinol, glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acids. Before your laser resurfacing treatment is not a good time to add new products to your skincare routine. Your Memphis laser skin resurfacing provider will let you know when you can resume using these products.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least a week as both habits can cause inflammation, impacting your overall recovery.
- Discuss your medical history and let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores, herpes, or shingles as you may need to pre-treat with an antiviral medication.