Lasers are now widely available to treat many conditions.
Recent advancements in technology have produced refinements in the carbon dioxide laser, creating an alternative to chemical peels and dermabrasion for resurfacing the skin. Bursts of laser light energy can be delivered so rapidly that no secondary heat is generated which can cause unwanted tissue damage. These lasers may provide the best tool for treatment of wrinkles around the mouth and on the eyelids, though they will not correct deep furrows due to sagging jowls, for which facelift remains the best option. Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure which may be used to treat all or only a portion of the face. When partial-face treatments are performed, local anesthetics are used.