What Is Cosmetic Laser Surgery?

by Isobel Washington

Overview

Cosmetic laser surgery is actually a nonsurgical, noninvasive skin treatment popularly used as an anti-aging solution, as well as a solution for other problematic skin conditions, such as acne.
Features

Laser treatment involves the use of an overhead or handheld device that emits special laser beams onto the targeted skin area. Procedures require no anesthesia, have little to no downtime and are performed in the office of a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

Uses

Lasers are used to correct skin irregularities of both texture and color. Fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, redness, spider veins, acne scarring, birthmarks and melasma can also be corrected. Treatments are now commonly used to tighten and firm the skin.
How It Works

Laser technology uses heat, energy and/or light to target and purge old, abnormal skin cells and trigger the regeneration of new, healthy cells in their place. Laser types vary in energy source, approach, wavelength and function.
Types

Technological advances have brought forth many laser types, which target different layers and fractions of the skin. Ablative laser resurfacing (CO2 and Erbium YAG lasers) involves burning off the surface skin tissue, while non-ablative lasers (pulsed dye, Fraxel, Profractional, infrared lasers) penetrate the surface without damaging surrounding skin.
Side Effects

Side effects vary by laser type, but may include redness, blistering, bruising, swelling and burning of the treated skin. Some laser treatments present hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light or white spots) risks, especially for patients with dark skin. Most laser types are FDA approved for safety.
Benefits

Patients seeking cosmetic skin rejuvenation can benefit from this quick, noninvasive procedure. With little to no pain, minimal recovery time (ablative resurfacing may require healing) and few possible complications, dramatic results can be revealed without plastic surgery.

Overview