Laser Rejuvenation
Do you have wrinkles on your face, especially around the mouth or eyes that can be seen in photographs? Do you have acne scars or skin damage from sun exposure? If so, then you most likely will benefit from facial resurfacing, also called laserbrasion, laser abrasion, or a laser peel.
Since their discovery in 1958, lasers have become a powerful industrial tool, but their applications in medicine have been truly revolutionary. One reason is that lasers used as surgical tools can cut through tissue without causing bleeding. In fact, lasers actually can coagulate tissue to stop bleeding. Also, the wavelengths of the laser light itself let surgeons use the device selectively on very specific types of tissues and skin types, without affecting nearby tissue.
Using lasers for facial skin resurfacing was discovered almost by accident. In the course of treating acne scars with a laser, surgeons noticed that after resurfacing the skin around the scar to make the scar less visible, small adjacent wrinkles were greatly diminished. Resurfacing can be very appealing because it is a way of refreshing the skin's surface and getting a new layer of non-sun damaged and more youthful skin. The SilkTouch laser actually vaporizes the surface removing lines, wrinkles, and damage while it shrinks and reorganizes the collagen, actually rejuvenating the tissue. Collagen is a key fibrous protein in the skin's connective tissue and it helps give the skin its texture. Natural aging and such factors as sun damage and smoking help break down the collagen layer so that the skin's once smooth surface develops wrinkles. After laser treatment, new, more youthful collagen actually forms.
Laser resurfacing can often make patients look 5 to 15 years younger, and the results can last for approximately 7 to 10 years. Patients can have a repeat treatment, but usually the first procedure is so successful a follow-up is not needed.
The SilkTouch Transformation
After extensive research and investigation, Dr. Kaplan recommends and provides laser rejuvenation utilizing the SilkTouch method of treatment. This a highly sophisticated laser that utilizes a unique, patent pending flash-scanning technology. SilkTouch gives Dr. Kaplan unprecedented control over the vaporization process, gently and precisely removing the damaged upper layers of skin cells. SilkTouch is used like an artist's brush, tailoring the skin rejuvenation procedure to your individual needs. Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth can be smoothed. Deep laugh and frown creases can be softened. Acne scars and some surgical scars can be minimized. The surface of the skin can be "freshened", revealing the new skin underneath and also stimulating skin renewal for a softer, silkier and smoother appearance. Even delicate areas on the lips and around the eyes can be rejuvenated safely. Depending upon the type and depth of the wrinkle or scar, one or more sessions may be scheduled. SilkTouch is also used after facelifts or eyelid surgery to smooth out fine lines that remain so that the outward signs of age and sun damage are reversed. Your skin is revitalized, fresh, and transformed.
Short Recovery Time
A period of ten days is required for healing, but one can be presentable at five days with a special healing gel make-up. Dr. Kaplan developed the use of a specialized dressing to promote faster healing and reduce the chance of infection. The initial redness fades in a few weeks to light pink, which is easily camouflaged with make-up and disappears completely in one to three months. Some swelling can occur, particularly around the eyes.
Is SilkTouch Right For You?
Dr. Kaplan will evaluate your medical history, age, skin type, pigmentation, and take your desired results into consideration when determining if you are a potential candidate for SilkTouch skin rejuvenation. Be sure to mention any viral infections, sun sensitivity, Accutane use, prior chemical peels, dermabrasion, or previous skin care treatment. It’s important that you discuss with Dr. Kaplan your expectations and the type of skin improvement you hope to achieve. Together you can decide if your expectations are realistic, and clearly define your goals.
What Are the Risks?
This is not an easy-in, easy-out procedure. While national infection rates approach 10%, Dr. Kaplan has maintained a 0% rate due to his dressing products and techniques. The final decision to proceed with laser rejuvenation requires thorough consideration. Since no physician can guarantee perfection, a well-informed patient with reasonable expectations may be one step closer to younger, healthier, and fresher-looking skin.
