Pros and Cons of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Would you like to improve your skin’s tone and texture — without surgical intervention? Perhaps you have noticeable acne scars, wrinkles or pigment problems that bother you, but you don’t have the time to dedicate to surgery and its recovery. You may be interested to learn that many of Dr. Jonathan Grant’s patients have achieved beautiful results with laser skin resurfacing. In this blog post, the facial plastic surgeon shares the pros and cons of this treatment option.

Understanding Laser Skin Resurfacing

First, it is important to have a baseline understanding of laser skin resurfacing. There are two types of laser skin resurfacing: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative laser skin resurfacing removes the top layer of damaged skin to reveal the underlying layer of fresh, healthy skin. Ablative lasers also stimulate collagen production, which improves fine lines and skin texture. Non-ablative laser skin resurfacing works on the deeper layers of the skin, to address pigment, redness and broken blood vessels.

Pros

The best reason to consider laser skin resurfacing is that it can tighten and smooth the skin without incisions! Patients can enjoy long-lasting results without worrying about surgery scars or long-term recovery times.

Depending on the specific laser technology used, laser skin resurfacing is a great way to achieve the following:

  • Even out skin tone
  • Tighten skin
  • Smooth wrinkles
  • Treat acne scars
  • Treat sun damage
  • Eliminate brown or age spots
  • Reduce oversized pores
  • Stimulate the production of collagen for long-term results
  • Give the skin a beautiful glow

Cons

There are a few drawbacks when considering laser skin resurfacing — most notably the risks of treatment, which increase if the person performing treatment is unqualified or inexperienced.

For example, the more powerful the laser used, the more potential there is for side effects like permanent lightening or darkening of the skin, scarring or cold sores (although Dr. Grant usually prescribes anti-viral medications to prevent cold sores).

Another potential drawback is that while laser skin resurfacing does not require the downtime of a surgical procedure, there is a recovery period. Patients can expect skin redness after treatment, which may appear to get worse before it improves.

Talk to Our Trusted Laser Skin Resurfacing Team

Dr. Grant and our team are experienced laser skin resurfacing providers and have helped many patients enjoy clear, smooth and radiant skin. We do everything we can to prevent complications and unfavorable side effects.

If you are interested in rejuvenating your skin with laser skin resurfacing at Cascade Facial Surgery & Aesthetics, please call (360) 336-1947 or email us today and request a consultation.