Laser skin resurfacing has arrived on the scene and it promises to take the wrinkles out of growing older for thousands of Americans. But instead of a scalpel, they're using a light pen or computerized handpiece that has been programmed to emit highly targeted bursts of intense light which are as short as a millionth of a second each. Because the physician preprograms the laser, it's possible to avoid overlapping or missing any spots, as well as avoiding damage to surrounding skin.
Physicians say the procedure works best on people with fair complexions and fine wrinkles.
Patients having their entire face resurfaced usually receive a general anesthetic, while only Novacain is required to correct specific areas such as lip lines or crow's feet. While resurfacing may cause little discomfort, there's a considerable amount of postoperative healing involved. The patient must take antiviral and antibiotic medications for several days following the procedure, while keeping the skin moist and meticulously clean. This includes an elaborate schedule of washes, soaks, ointments and dressings. The purpose of this regimen is to reduce the risk of infection and to encourage healing .