Sher New Technologies

Laser skin resurfacing - Marvel or Menace?

Laser skin resurfacing is fast becoming one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures. Proponents claim that, unlike dermabrasion and chemical peels, this high-tech method of erasing the signs of damaged skin, offers a safer and more predictable outcome reducing the risk of scarring, pigmentation problems, discomfort and long recovery periods, but with the heady promises come sobering truths...

Be prepared

Clearly, when it comes to laser resurfacing, as with any cosmetic procedure, time does not ideally restore the skin. If the prescribed waiting period which can be as short as two weeks - has not produced satisfactory results. The patient is well within his or her rights to protest. Often, the surgeon will be unhappy with the effects as well and fix things without charge. However, if the surgeon and patient aren't seeing eye to eye, the patient may choose to seek better results elsewhere. Ultimately, the best defence against blunders is good preparation. Here are some prevention tips:

Checklist:

Check the credentials of the plastic surgeon or dermatologist you're considering. Ask the doctor how many times he or she has performed the procedure you're requesting. You don't want to be the first patient, or even the twenty-first. Review "before" and "after" pictures of the surgeon's patients - ideally, speak to one or two of them. Shop around for a surgeon with whom you're comfortable - this makes for better communication.

Prepare fully:

Have detailed conversations with the surgeon about the goals and limitations of the operation, as well as the possible risks, side effects, recovery time and durability of results. Jot down your questions beforehand and take a friend or family member to the consultation. You may be nervous and inclined to forget questions or hear only what you want to.

Skin Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing - What can go wrong?

The complications of laser resurfacing are essentially the same as those of chemical peels and dermabrasion, says Patrick Hudson, a New York based plastic surgeon. Here's a brief review of some of the problems that may arise.

Sensation of heat:
during the first week, many patients complain of intense heat. This is less common when occlusive dressings are used.

Scarring:
severe burns resulting in scarring are always a risk.

Infection:
(bacteria) and yeast infection may be more common when occlusive dressings are used. Serious infection can increase the depth of the burn and lead to scarring.

Hyperpigmentation:
increased pigmentation (darkening) may occur in about one in four patients. In many cases, it is temporary, but can be permanent. To minimise the risk of pigmentation, surgeons recommend a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 16, and avoiding sun exposure.

Hypopigmentation:
a decrease in pigment in the skin is seen in about one in 20 patients and may be permanent.

Herpes:
it is possible to develop herpes infections in the treated area during the early recovery phase. Some surgeons recommend the use of prophylactic anti-herptic medicine.

Breakouts:
some patients experience a mild eruption of small pimples in the early recovery period. Others may develop whitehead or milia which are easily treated.

Tooth injury:
teeth must be protected or the laser can damage the enamel.

Eye injury:
the eyes must be protected with a shield to prevent damage such as corneal ulcers.

Ectropion:
when the eyelid is treated with laser, an excess tightening of the skin may occur. This may result in a pulling down of the lower lid, called an ectropion. This is more common in patients who have laxity of the eyelid before surgery

Lagophthalmos:
although it's rarely permanent, tightening of upper eyelid skin may prevent complete closure of the eyes.