Erbium laser skin resurfacing is a procedure designed to remove superficial and moderately deep lines and wrinkles on the face. The Erbium laser results in a narrower area of heating of adjacent tissues than with other laser skin resurfacing methods. This results in a more focused removal of old skin cells layers. The Erbium laser’s ability to stimulate the production of collagen is key to creating a tightening and smoothing of the skin. The change in the collagen results in the removal of fine wrinkles and the diminished visibility of more prominent wrinkles.
In the Erbium Laser Resurfacing procedure a small area of the skin’s surface is heated with the cool Erbium laser which in turn vaporizes superficially damaged skin cells and resulting in the thickening of the skin’s collagen.
The length of the Erbium laser procedure varies from 15 minutes to slightly more than an hour depending on the individuals needs.
To minimize discomfort, a local anesthetic may be employed for some Erbium laser resurfacing procedures.
As this procedure is performed in an outpatient environment, patients can return home the same day.
Healing is more rapid because the Erbium laser results in decreased redness, swelling, and bruising associated with laser resurfacing.
In most procedures, patients are able to fully recuperate within 7-10 days. Make-up can be worn after the first week. At this point patients may return to regular activities with consideration kept in mind of the skin’s ongoing healing. The use of sun block on treated areas is recommended when in the sun. Over the next several weeks, the pinkness of the exposed skin will lighten to reveal the normal tone, yet with a softer, smoother and younger appearance.