The beam can remove the upper layer of skin, the epidermis, leaving the next layer, the dermis, exposed and pink.

Then the laser power is lowered and the laser used to heat the dermis gently. This stimulates it to produce collagen fibers. (Collagen is a protein that’s common in the body, and is produced any time the skin’s integrity is damaged.) As the collagen heals the treated area, new skin grows which is softer and less wrinkled.

Laser resurfacing is done with a local anesthetic and if needed, also a sedative. Depending on what other procedures you’re having done at the same time, a general anesthetic may be used.

The procedure takes anything from several minutes to an hour or more, according to how large an area is being treated.

Recovering from laser resurfacing
Afterwards, there’ll be swelling and discomfort for perhaps a week or so, and there could be some oozing for a couple of weeks. The skin may be pink or red for several months as it regrows and recovers.

You’ll need to avoid direct sunlight, and if you have to be outdoors, use a sunblock with an SPF of 25 or more. Also avoid moving your facial muscles as much as possible and use a moisturizer at least twice a day to keep your skin hydrated and supple.

Finding a good cosmetic surgeon
Since cosmetic surgery has become so popular in the last 10 years or so, some doctors have taken short cut training to take advantage of this at a disservice to the general public. You want a properly trained and experienced surgeon, not one who might gain his basic experience on you! Choose a plastic surgeon who’s certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), and one who’s a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

While you should by all means listen to your friends and acquaintances who may have had cosmetic surgery and want to recommend their doctor to you you should do your homework too, and check the doctor’s credentials.

Some questions to ask when interviewing plastic surgeons
· Do you have hospital privileges, and if so, which hospitals?
· Can you do the procedure in the hospital if I want to?
· If you do surgery in other facilities, are they accredited?
· How many breast reductions have you done?
· Can I speak to some of your previous patients about their experience with it?