Laser skin resurfacing procedures are performed to improve the skin through dual functions. The advanced skin care treatment corrects existing issues of the skin, while simultaneously creating long term changes that lead to a healthier epidermis and improved future aesthetics.
The Benefit of Laser Treatments
Most often, patients will request laser treatments for their face to address aging from sun exposure or just regular movement of facial muscles. Anti-aging efforts are just one way laser skin resurfacing treatments can benefit patients, but there are a number of other benefits available.
Patients who suffer from acne scarring, those who wish to improve the texture or tone of the skin, and those seeking other cosmetic adjustments such as decreased pore size are also candidates for laser skin resurfacing. Aside from smoothing and creating a uniform texture of the facial skin, laser treatments can also be tailored to improve the skin of the neck, chest, hands, or other areas that may appear irregular.
Repeat sessions are almost always suggested for optimal results.
Prevent Unwanted Scarring
Patients should be knowledgeable about the skin’s healing process so as to not adversely impact it following a laser treatment. Unnecessary scarring is easily preventable when patients follow the directions of Dr. Bustillo and his staff.
Following a laser procedure, the skin will look inflamed and feel warm to the touch. It may be a deep-to-light pink color, and it is possible for blisters to form, though these are all normal side effects. While it may be tempting to peel loose skin or excise blisters, permanent discoloration and scarring can result. Patients are instructed to allow the natural shedding process of the skin to complete on its own.
Cleansing the Skin
Dr. Bustillo may prescribe different actions for varying circumstances, though there are a number of general tips suggested for aftercare. To ward off infection and maintain hygiene of the skin, a natural cleansing solution can be applied to the skin morning, midday, and at night, once or twice during each time. A saline or vinegar solution diluted with distilled water can serve as the post-treatment skin cleanser.
For patients that have undergone CO2 laser treatments, Dr. Bustillo recommends the use of gauze to cleanse the skin as it gently sloughs off any dry or crusting skin without interfering with the healing process. The staff may also suggest measures to maintain hydration of the skin, including a soak tailored to the patient’s needs. Dry skin negatively impacts the cell repair process, prolonging healing.
Aiding the Skin Repair Process
Laser skin resurfacing treatments create injuries to the skin that will eventually heal and produce visibly healthier tissue. During the recovery process, the skin must be cared for similarly to other wounds and injuries of the skin. Ointments aimed at repair may be smoothed over the face following cleansing to aid in healing and conditioning the skin.
It can take two weeks or sometimes longer for treated skin to appear corrected. It is often the case that patients with lighter skin may notice pink undertones in their skin longer than people with medium or dark skin.
Post-Procedure Hydration of the Skin
Skin refinishing treatments can temporarily offset the natural moisture balance of the skin, but Dr. Bustillo and his staff can assist patients by choosing products to correct this issue. Immediately following the procedure, it may be ideal to use gentle moisturizers that contain no artificial ingredients. Often, these products are labeled “Sensitive Skin” or “Hypoallergenic.”
Two weeks after a CO2 laser procedure, when the skin has healed sufficiently, patients may be able to moisturize with more potent products for the skin.
Apply SPF Sun Protection Daily
While part of the skin treatment occurs within Dr. Bustillo’s office, there are a number of patient care routines that should be followed at home. While cleansing and moisturizing the skin have already been discussed, a third recommendation follows. The daily use of SPF or Sun Protection Factor is an invisible shield for the skin’s protection against harmful UV rays produced by the sun.
Many moisturizers now contain an SPF, but a standalone sunscreen can also be applied over one’s daily skincare products. The doctor recommends using at least an SPF 15 that specifies blockage against both UVA and UVB rays. When used as directed, sun protection prevents negative short term consequences like sunburn, and long term overexposure issues such as lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and cancerous growths.
Contact Dr. Bustillo Today
Dr. Andres Bustillo, M.D., F.A.C.S. is one of a select few double board certified facial plastic surgeons. He is board certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery.
Because he is a facial specialist, he does not perform surgery on any area of the body other than the face. This specialization and experience has allowed him to get results for patients with a range of facial shapes, features, and skin types. By continuing to build his experience and keep up on the latest advancements Dr. Bustillo has built his reputation as someone who produces natural, long-lasting results.
Over 50 percent of his practice is dedicated to rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty. The rest is devoted to other types of facial rejuvenation surgery. He performs over 300 nasal surgeries a year. Twenty-five percent of his patients come from outside the United States. Twenty percent of his patients are other doctors and their families.
He and his team can be contacted by phone at 305-663-3380 or by email through the contact form. The office of Dr. Bustillo is here to answer your questions, and help you to plan your initial consultation. You can also directly contact our patient care coordinator, Jessica, by email. Dr. Bustillo is committed to total patient care and support through his practice based just south of Miami, in beautiful and historic Coral Gables, Florida.