Micro Laser Peel can frequently be provided as a non-invasive alternative to the The Sciton MicroLaserPeel™ is ideal for patients with little downtime to spare. This peel removes fine lines and wrinkles plus leaves fresh youthful skin in its wake. Known as the weekend procedure with immediate, lasting results, this Erbium Yag laser is one of the foremost precision lasers available today. The precision inherent in this Sciton head reduces any discomfort for perfect coverage and uniform ablation that was not possible with other laser systems.
This refined erbium laser allows for an almost infinite choice in how gentle or aggressive you laser peel will be. Each level provides a different end result, adjustable to fit the lifestyle needs and end desires of the patient. The Sciton Erbium Laser System allows for treatment depths as minimal as 4 microns (similar to a glycolic acid peel) up to 120 microns (full resurfacing effect.)
What is the MicroLaserPeel™?
It is a minimal to full epidermal laser peel that precisely removes the outermost layers of the skin. The procedure is individually tailored to your needs. MLP is effective:
- wrinkles
- scars
- keratoses (pre-cancerous lesions)
- pigmentation problems
- overall sun damage
How does it work?
When the skin is treated with the Sciton Erbium laser, a clean, layer-by-layer vaporization of the skin occurs. The undesired skin literally evaporates due to the high water content of the epidermis. The laser is, therefore, best-suited for those skin conditions which are superficial in nature, such as fine lines and wrinkles, blotchiness (or dark and light patches), keratoses (pre-cancers), scaling, acne scarring, etc. The skin in these conditions is resurfaced or “rejuvenated” by the vaporizing action of the laser.
The procedure is quick and virtually pain-free. The initial healing process takes place over 2-7 days depending on the depth of the peel. The result is younger looking “new” skin. Because the Sciton Erbium laser is so precise, the risk of scarring or other complications (such as infection) is minimized. Also, it is typical for a patient to return to his or her regular work or social activities quickly.
Who should consider a MicroLaserPeel™?
The patient looking for better results than microdermabrasion or light chemical peels can offer, yet, still has little time for the healing process.
How often does a MicroLaserPeel™ need to be done?
Typically, the procedure is repeated 2-4 times, spaced 6-8 weeks apart, but many peels may be done to achieve the desired result.
One procedure could be sufficient for at least 6 to12 months, but additional procedures can be performed as required. A package of three to four treatments may be best for you. This will be discussed during your consultation.
What can I expect from the treatment?
Smoother, healthier more vibrant skin. You will notice a significant and immediate change in skin texture and tightness.
What type anesthesia is used?
A topical anesthetic, if necessary, is applied thirty to 45 minutes before the procedure.
Do I have to wear any type of dressing or bandage after the procedure?
No. Dressings and bandages are not needed. A Micro Laser Peel requires nothing more than a protective ointment such as Aquaphor or Vaseline. This is used as a barrier to keep the air away from your skin while you grow new skin. You will probably use it for one to two days. After that, a moisturizer can be used.
How long is the healing process?
The healing process normally takes two to four days.
What will my treatment consist of?
Getting Started
Our physicians in a consultation determine an microlaser peel treatment plan for each new patient, accounting for the desired outcome and time available for healing. We will discuss pre op precautions, such as stopping retinoids and acid treatments 3 days prior and taking Valtrex if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores.
What to Expect
The procedure is gentle, non-invasive, and safe. There should be minimal or no discomfort, however this varies from patient to patient and depends on the depth of the treatment. An anesthetic cream applied 45 minutes prior to your treatment, may be used if so desired to minimize any treatment associated discomfort. Your physician will recommend the best options during consultation.
The treatment involves precise removal of the epidermis at a depth predetermined by your physician. Pinpoint bleeding may occur with deeper depths. Patients often describe a slight stinging sensation, like the snapping of a rubber band, in the treated areas. Most individuals find this to be very tolerable. Your procedure may take a few minutes to half an hour depending on the size of the area to be treated and the type of the procedure performed.
What will I look like immediately after MicroLaserPeel™ treatment?
Erythema, edema, and a sunburn sensation may be noticed in the treatment area for up to twelve hours after treatment. This is a purely ablative procedure. Swelling should be present only as a short-term response. Patients undergoing 40-50 micron ablation may choose to sleep sitting upright the first night after the procedure to avoid swelling of facial tissues. Often tissue will peel or flake as a result of the ablation. Peeling or flaking usually occurs after 24 -48 hours.
How do I care for my skin after the treatment?
It is important to follow your physician’s instructions. We will recommend skin care products and provide instructions on how to use them. These will minimize your risk of inflammation or redness and ensure the shortest healing time.
Within weeks, your treated skin will feel smoother, fine wrinkles and pores will be less noticeable, and sun spots or uneven pigmentation will fade. Results depend on your condition, the number of treatments, and the area treated. Your physician will provide you with complete information about the post treatment care and results.
You will be sensitive to ultra-violet light and you must avoid direct sun exposure until fully healed. Sun tanning and tanning beds should be avoided for 1 month before and after each BBL session. A broad spectrum sunblock with zinc oxide and/ or titanium dioxide as the primary ingredients should be used on a daily basis.
How many treatments will I need?
Most require multiple treatments. This depends on the desired results and depth of treatment. This peel can be adjusted for a few deep treatments with some downtime or multiple lighter treatments with less downtime.
Schedule Your Micro Laser Peel Consultation Today
If you have areas of lax skin that you would like to improve, consider Micro Laser Peel at Chicago Aesthetic Surgery Institute contact us today for a consultation.