Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser Resurfacing

Ralph A. Massey, MD — Santa Monica & Encino, CA

The effects of time and sun exposure can often be seen in the skin of the face, but laser resurfacing in Santa Monica can help reverse that. CO2 laser resurfacing is without question the most effective way to rejuvenate the skin, while at the same time achieving a significant level of skin tightening. The results can take over ten years off your appearance.

What Is Laser Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that is performed to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and scarring, even out pigmentation, and tighten the skin. Laser resurfacing is also used to eliminate the presence of both benign and malignant lesions.

By adjusting various parameters on the laser settings Dr Massey has perfected a technique that allows him to blend the treated areas into the surrounding skin of the neck, the earlobes and into the hairline so avoiding any “cut off” lines that may otherwise make the treated area stand out.

Laser resurfacing can also be used to erase old acne scars on the face and even improve the appearance of old surgical scars.

While teaching at Columbia University, Dr Massey published one of the first studies showing the potential benefit of laser resurfacing in lowering the risk of skin cancer in selected patients. Separate from its cosmetic benefits, resurfacing is now becoming better recognized as a potential method for skin cancer prophylaxis.

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Resurfacing?

Ideal candidates for laser resurfacing must have elastic skin, do not have excessive sagging, and are not susceptible to scars from minor cuts. Laser resurfacing will benefit people who have fine wrinkles, age spots, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, chickenpox scars, photodamaged skin, liver spots, lesions, and post-facelift non-responsive skin.

Laser resurfacing helps reduce the appearance of acne scars; however, it is not for clients who still have active acne. Patients who have very dark skin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take specific medications like Accutane may not be viable candidates for laser resurfacing.

Your Laser Resurfacing Consultation

Your consultation for laser resurfacing involves a physical evaluation of your skin type and concerns. A review of your medical history will be conducted to assess your suitability for the procedure.

Dr. Massey will provide you with detailed information about the treatment plan. A patch test is also performed sometimes with the client’s consent, depending on the laser resurfacing method recommended.

What Is a Laser Resurfacing Procedure Like?

There are two common types of laser resurfacing: carbon dioxide, or CO2, laser treatment and erbium laser treatment.

CO2 laser resurfacing is typically an outpatient procedure and usually makes use of local anesthesia. Dr. Massey does not use general anesthesia for procedures; this facilitates quicker healing, improved safety, and less required downtime.

A partial laser resurfacing treatment can take 30 to 45 minutes, while full-face laser resurfacing can take from an hour and 30 minutes up to two hours.

Using a computerized CO2 laser Dr. Massey is able to individualize the treatment to the needs of each patient and each area of the face. As soon as one week after the procedure a new, tighter, healthier and rejuvenated skin will emerge!”

Dr. Massey completed his fellowship in cosmetic surgery at Columbia University in New York.

Laser Resurfacing Recovery

CO2 laser resurfacing treatments are non-surgical procedures, but they also require some downtime for recovery. Recovery time for this treatment can take seven to fourteen days.

Your skin will feel red and raw after a laser resurfacing procedure. You will be advised to avoid activities like gym workouts, hot showers, saunas, and swimming for proper healing.

Redness and itching are also commonly experienced, as well as crusting, but these should disappear after a few days. You may also go through some post-treatment swelling for the first few days. It’s recommended that you moisturize regularly and avoid products with salicylic acid and glycolic acid.

How Much Does Laser Resurfacing Cost?

The cost of a laser resurfacing treatment will depend on the number of sessions required for the treatment to achieve the desired results, along with the size of the target area. The overall price varies from patient to patient due to our patient-focused approach.

Arrange Your Consultation

If you want to wake up to improved skin, laser resurfacing in Santa Monica is a solution that can help treat your skin issues. Contact us for a consultation and learn more about the benefits of this skin-rejuvenating treatment.