Laser Surgery Probably no advance in medicine has had more of an impact than the development of laser surgery. Laser resurfacing procedures have added a new dimension to cosmetic surgery. Recent advances in carbon dioxide laser technology have made skin rejuvenation with the CO 2 laser a practical reality.
Lasers work by emitting a powerful beam of light, which causes a superficial burn of the skin.
As layers of dead skin cells are replaced by new living cells, the skin tightens, and grows back smoother and wrinkle-free. Lasers are effective for treating sun-damaged skin, acne scarring, age spots and skin discoloration, and many facial scars and wrinkles. Laser treatment may be performed on the whole face or designated facial areas such as around the eyes or the mouth. It can be carried out under local or general anesthesia, depending on the specific needs of each individual and the type of laser to be used. It heals more quickly and with less discomfort than the stronger CO 2 lasers, and is more suitable for darker skin types.