Laser Skin Resurfacing in Corona, CA

The Plastics Doc is happy to offer our Corona and Beverly Hills, CA patients CO2 laser skin resurfacing with the Lumenis UltraPulse® platform. This noninvasive aesthetic treatment uses pulsating beams of light to eliminate damaged skin cells one layer at a time, which is great for reducing facial wrinkles and lines and improving skin blemishes, like acne scars, pigmentation, and more. Also referred to as a laser peel, laser skin resurfacing is considered an ideal procedure if you're looking for softer, clearer, youthful-looking skin. Based on your particular aesthetic goals and complexion, plastic surgeon Dr. Samuel Salcedo or a member of his experienced team can adjust the treatment to give you your ideal results. There is some recovery time needed for the skin to heal from laser skin resurfacing procedures, so that is something to keep in mind when deciding if you'd like laser skin resurfacing or one of our other nonsurgical treatments. Call our Corona or Beverly Hills, CA office to schedule a consultation today.

Laser skin resurfacing treatments with the Lumenis UltraPulse CO2 ablative laser platform at The Plastics Doc in Corona or Beverly Hills, CA can revitalize and rejuvenate your skin for a more youthful look with great benefits that include:

• Smoothing lines and wrinkles
• Eliminating dead, damaged skin cells
• Reducing skin discoloration (spots, redness, etc.)
• Softening rough, scaly skin
• Balancing skin tone and texture
• Diminishing acne scars
• Results can be long-lasting

There are multiple factors to think about when deciding if laser skin resurfacing with Lumenis UltraPulse is right for you. Geared toward those who are unhappy with their general complexion, if you see wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, acne scars, and fine lines, pigmentation, or redness concerns, this procedure may be for you. In addition, it works well if you have scaly patches, rough texture, or other irregularities. This treatment isn't recommended if you have very dark skin tones or active acne. In addition, it's important to know that there is a recovery period associated with these laser therapies. Depending on the condition of your skin, you may need as much as 2 – 3 weeks for your skin to normalize.

Your procedure will vary, depending on the intensity of the laser skin resurfacing treatment you'll be receiving. If you are scheduled for a deeper or more intense laser resurfacing session with UltraPulse, including wrinkle reduction, you may be given a retinoid cream for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser procedure to help prep your skin for more effective results. Medication will be prescribed prior to the treatment to help minimize any sensation so you can relax during your appointment. If your skin needs mild improvement, a local anesthetic will be applied to numb certain areas that the ablative CO2 laser will treat. During the procedure, you can relax in our special treatment chair while the CO2 laser passes over the skin, precisely targeting the designated sections for rejuvenation. Using our state-of-the-art C02 system, we will pass the handheld device over your skin to deliver either short pulses of light energy or continuous light beams in a scanning pattern to remove thin layers of skin. While the Lumenis CO2 system uses minimal heat, you may feel heat from the laser followed with cold air from the built-in cooling system. The laser works to destroy damaged and dead skin cells while stimulating new collagen growth for a more youthful look.

If you had a less aggressive CO2 laser resurfacing session with Lumenis UltraPulse, a healing ointment will be smoothed over your skin and you will be sent home to recover. The treated areas of your skin may appear pink, and you will likely experience some irritation and swelling. This should subside within a couple of days, and the skin peeling process will last over a 3 – 5-day period. If you are undergoing a more intense laser procedure, your skin's recovery period will likely last closer to 2 – 3 weeks. The treated sections of your skin will most likely be protected with topical ointments or creams, and the irritation, burning, and swelling sensation may be more intense. Pain medication can be prescribed to minimize these side effects, if necessary. It's important to limit your UV exposure following your laser skin resurfacing treatment and use sun protection frequently. No matter what intensity of your treatment, your skin will naturally crust, flake, and peel off. It's crucial to avoid picking at your skin during the recovery process. While it may be tempting, this will prevent scarring, shield your skin from sun exposure, and ensure your best possible results, including reducing wrinkles, lines, and impurities. Once the peeling is finished, your skin should feel softer while also appearing rejuvenated, younger, and clearer.

What's the best type of resurfacing for me?
Dr. Salcedo or a member of his experienced team will help you decide which laser resurfacing option is best for your needs and goals in your consultation. The best treatment for you will depend on the health and condition of your skin, your skin issues, and how deep you want your treatment to go. The length of recovery time might also be an important factor when choosing your treatment type. If you are unsure, it's best to select a milder treatment then assess your results and adjust as needed for your second treatment.

How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?
Dr. Salcedo or a member of his staff will talk to you about how you can speed skin healing following your laser resurfacing treatment. The number one rule is don't peel or pick flaking skin. This could lead to long-term damage like scars. You should forgo all hair removal methods in the treatment area, which means no waxing, shaving, or depilatory creams. We will suggest an ointment to help soothe and heal your skin.

Should I get laser skin resurfacing, a chemical peel, or dermabrasion?
Once he has listened to your skin issues, Dr. Salcedo will help you choose whether laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion, or a chemical peel best fits your needs and goals. While they all improve the surface of the skin, each has its own pros and cons. In your consultation, Dr. Salcedo will review each option and make a recommendation for your treatment plan.

How often should I get laser resurfacing treatments?
Depending on the laser resurfacing method you and Dr. Salcedo select for your treatment, you might need to wait weeks or even months between appointments. Deeper laser treatments will provide results that last a long time, but do require a longer recovery period. You should talk to Dr. Salcedo about how often you are willing to return for treatments so he can take this into account when recommending a treatment plan during your consultation.

How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
Your laser skin resurfacing cost will depend on the treatment you choose. During your initial consultation, Dr. Salcedo will ask about your skin problems and goals before explaining the types of laser resurfacing available. After this, he can help you choose your resurfacing method and discuss costs. The Plastics Doc often runs skin treatment specials and packages, so ask about current specials during your consultation.

Is laser skin resurfacing painful?
Generally, laser skin resurfacing is considered to be a relatively comfortable procedure. We will apply an topical anesthetic in order to ensure the treatment remains as painless as possible, but for the most part, our patients do not experience any discomfort or pain during their sessions.

Is laser skin resurfacing painful?

Usually, yes. About 5 – 7 days after your laser skin resurfacing session, you will likely begin to notice your skin becoming progressively more dry. Eventually, the skin will peel and reveal newer, healthier skin underneath.

Laser skin resurfacing at The Plastics Doc provides excellent results if you want a younger and refreshed appearance with fewer wrinkles, lines, and blemishes. We invite you to learn more about CO2 laser skin resurfacing with Lumenis UltraPulse and other nonsurgical treatments we offer at our Corona or Beverly Hills, CA offices. Contact us today to make your consultation with Dr. Salcedo and have all your laser skin resurfacing questions answered.