LASER FACIAL REJUVENATION
WHAT IS LASER?
The word LASER is formed by the initials of five English words: Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is a very disciplined form of energy - each type of laser has a specific target that can have precise and unique effects on organic tissues.
FACIAL REJUVENATION WITH LASER
Facial rejuvenation with CO2 Ultrapulse Laser or Ultrafine Erbium Laser provides improvement of fine and deep wrinkles caused by the natural aging of the skin and excessive sun exposure. The deeper wrinkles, resulting from muscular action on the skin (expression lines), are softened with laser, but require supplementation with botulinum toxin (Botox or Dysport) to keep the muscles at rest.
Other skin irregularities can be treated with laser: acne scars, blemishes, and skin lesions such as nevi, warts, keratoses, syringomas, xanthelasmas, etc. The laser vaporizes the tissues instantly, without affecting the surrounding tissues, as each type of laser has a specific "target".
The action of the laser consists of removing the most superficial layers of the skin, promoting a contraction of the deeper layers (dermis), which upon regeneration will present firmer and healthier-looking skin.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Scar
There is none, as this treatment is free of cuts. Only the laser beam comes into contact with the skin, promoting its peeling.
Anesthesia
Local with sedation, depending on the case.
Procedure Time
Variable, depending on the extent of the areas to be treated. Generally from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
PRE-PROCEDURE
1) Complementary exams to be specified.
2) Photography of the area, important for evaluation, planning, and documentation.
3) Attend the clinic on the agreed day and time, preferably accompanied.
4) Do not bring jewelry and other valuables to the clinic.
5) The skin is prepped for a period of 2 weeks to 2 months before the procedure, according to skin type.
Care:
1) Fasting for at least 6 hours before the start of the laser application.
2) Medication for hypertension and other diseases should be reported for further guidance. Inform if you are undergoing acne treatment (Accutane, Roacutan - oral Vit A).
3) Medication containing acetylsalicylic acid and anticoagulants do not prevent laser treatment.
4) Inform about previous chemical or abrasive skin treatments.
POST-OPERATIVE
Pain
With occlusive dressing, it is practically nonexistent. There may be a sensation of "tightness" and slight discomfort in the treated area. Mild fever is rare and subsides with usual medication.
Outpatient Care
The application is performed at the clinic, and the patient will be ready to return home a few hours after the procedure.
Dressings
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area is covered with a thin film that remains for 6 days. After the removal of this film, the skin should be moisturized.
Sun
The treated area will present a reddish coloration, which will last on average from one to two months. During this period, the use of sunscreen is essential, and any type of sun exposure is prohibited until the pink coloration has disappeared. Failure to follow medical guidelines will compromise the treatment results.
Makeup and Hair Dye
It will be necessary to use a special foundation containing sunscreen to disguise this pink coloration until it completely disappears. Both makeup and hair dye should only be done after the first week.
Dark Spots
Around the 2nd or 3rd week, a preventive treatment for dark spots begins. If they appear despite this, it should be immediately reported to your doctor. These spots result from healing and are usually temporary, disappearing with appropriate treatment and constant medical supervision. However, if inappropriate sun exposure occurs during this phase, they risk becoming permanent.
Rest
During the first week, stay at home away from windows, stoves, and other sources of heat radiation. Rest, avoiding intense physical activity, lifting weights, and exposure to wind. When lying down, keep the head elevated (two pillows).
"WILL THIS DISAPPEAR?"
Every procedure involves its own recovery period. Give it time, as your body will take care of dissipating small inconveniences that will inevitably attract someone's attention, leading to the question: "Will this disappear?" Do not hesitate to communicate any concerns. We will provide the necessary clarifications for your peace of mind.
RESULT
Initially, during the first four months after the procedure, the area appears to be recovering, but over time, the organic tissues will settle, and the appearance will become very natural.
From the fourth month, a new photographic session occurs to compare pre and post-operative (before and after). This re-evaluation may indicate the need for some touch-up, a procedure considered common in plastic surgery, and should be performed after the 6th month and within a maximum of one year after the procedure.