Procedure name:
Laser Skin Resurfacing

Anticipated result of the procedure:
If you've ever wished that you could "renew" your complexion to make it smoother and more even-toned, laser resurfacing may be a good option for you. Cosmetic laser resurfacing, also called "laser peel", is a procedure that smoothes the facial skin by using a laser to refinish damaged areas and shrink fine wrinkles. The result is a fresher, smoother complexion.

Procedure Description:
A beam of laser energy is used to vaporize the upper layers of damaged skin with accurate precision. As new cells form during the healing process, a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface appears.

Length:
A few minutes to one hour

Anesthesia:
Local with sedation or general

In/Outpatient:
Outpatient procedure

Temporary Side Effects:
Temporary swelling, discomfort. Lightening of treated skin. Acute sun sensitivity. Increased sensitivity to makeup. Pinkness or redness in skin that may persist for up to 6 months.

Recovery:
Back to work: 2 weeks. More strenuous activities: 4-6 weeks. Complete fading of redness: 6 months or less. Return of pigmentation/light sun exposure: 6-12 months.

Duration of Results:
Long-lasting

Risks:
Hypo-hyper pigmentation: change of skin color in treated area, including loss of color or excessive color.

• Facial Peels

Top Duke specialists:
Gregory Georgiade, MD
Julie Ann Woodward, MD

FAQS

When is the "right" time to have laser skin resurfacing?
The correct time is as soon as unwanted changes or wrinkles are noticed. However, it is never too late to consider laser resurfacing. Many individuals in their senior years have enjoyed great benefit from this procedure.

Does it matter what time of the year laser skin resurfacing is done?
No. We perform the procedure year round. In the summertime though, many people are reluctant to stay out of the sun completely for the recommended two months.

Can suntanned skin be treated?
Yes, this is not a problem.