Dr. Mark Blair

Dr. Blair Discusses Options for LASER

In the last decade, there has been a great deal of advancements in the field of non-invasive skin rejuvenation. In the 1990's all that was available was C02 Laser. This device resulted in dramatic improvements but at the cost of significant "down-time" and frequent side effects. Enter "Non-Ablative" LASER Resurfacing: A large number of devices hit the market that would initiate "collagen remodeling" without damaging the epidermis (the most superficial layer of the skin). Even though the treatments were extremely well tolerated and rarely had any side effects, the results were inconsistent, operator dependent and often disappointing.

Over the last few years, a hand-full of technologies have broken onto the scene with a side effect profile closer to non-ablative devices and an end-result closer to the CO2 Laser.

1. The Variable-Pulsed YAG:

   This device also known as the "Micro Laser Peel", can be dialed to predictable amounts of energy and subsequent varied depth of injury to the skin. The more energy used, the greater degree of "down-time" and the greater degree of improvement.

2. Fractional Resurfacing:

   This device creates microscopic areas of damage to the skin with areas of completely unaltered skin in between. Redness and swelling after each procedure lasts an average of 3-5 days and a series of 5-6 treatments is needed in order to achieve optimal results.

3. Fractional CO2 Resurfacing:

   This device builds on the technical advances of fractional resurfacing. Significant results are obtained in just 1-2 treatments but the healing phase is longer. Patients experience hemorrhage, crusting, swelling and redness that lasts an average of 1-2 weeks.

4. Plasma Skin Rejuvenation:

   This is the most recent advance and most flexible of treatments. This device can be used extremely gently so that there is no discomfort with minimal downtime and mild to moderate improvement. On the the other end of the spectrum with higher energy levels and or multiple passes over the skin, dramatic improvements can be accomplished but with the trade-off of more significant down-time; usually on average 10-14 days.

Each of these devices has the ability to improve sun induced skin discoloration, improve fine lines/wrinkles, skin texture, and improve scarring. However given our desire for safety combine with efficacy, most of our patients would prefer one of devices that helps to diminish side effects and avoid potential complications of CO2.