Laser Skin Resurfacing in Beverly Hills & Los Angeles, CA

Laser resurfacing can improve skin by minimizing the appearance of facial wrinkles and imperfections. The Icon laser is our preferred choice for lasering because it is suitable for all skin types and ethnicities. With the Icon laser, we offer skin revitalization, skin renewal, scar removal, stretch mark treatment, laser hair removal, skin resurfacing, leg vein clearance, and laser tattoo removal.

How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?

Laser skin resurfacing removes the current layer of damaged skin so that a new layer of perfect skin can flourish.

First, our plastic surgeon applies local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The specialist then moves the laser precisely over the treatment area. The specialist repeats this motion, removing the outer skin layers and uncovering the layer not affected by imperfections. Patients report that the process feels like a rubber band being gently snapped against the skin.

Treatment time ranges from a few minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the amount of resurfacing needed. The procedure may take two or more sessions to penetrate deeper areas, but 1 procedure is usually enough.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery

After laser skin resurfacing, common side effects include discomfort, redness, swelling, and moderate irritation similar to a sunburn. In very rare cases, side effects like scarring, burning, or changes in skin pigmentation have occurred.

Recovery takes approximately two weeks, during which time the skin heals and a new layer of healthy skin forms, leaving the treated area looking fresher, smoother, tauter, and healthier.

Who Is Not a Candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Not all patients are good candidates for laser skin resurfacing. The ideal candidate has elastic, non-oily skin that is not prone to scarring after minor injury. Patients with certain skin tones, skin types, and/or medical conditions may face an increased risk of side effects, and may, in fact, experience a worsening result to their facial appearance.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Benefits

Laser skin resurfacing noticeably improves the appearance of the skin, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation problems, textural problems and other imperfections. The treatment can be easily performed at our office without needles or anesthesia. Patients do not need to take a lot of time off work to recover, and can resume most of their normal activities promptly after treatment.

Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Ablative laser resurfacing vaporizes the outer layer of skin, revealing fresh, healthy skin cells. Non-ablative laser resurfacing heats up the deep layers of the tissue, stimulating the production of fresh collagen for smoother, firmer skin.

Ablative and non-ablative resurfacing can be administered with a fractional laser, which leaves patterns of untouched tissue throughout the target area. This approach reduces recovery time and decreases the risk of side effects.

Is laser skin resurfacing permanent?

Laser skin resurfacing turns back the clock but does not stop facial aging altogether. Though the skin looks noticeably smoother, softer and more youthful after treatment, it continues to age and is vulnerable to factors like smoking, sun damage and repeated facial expressions.

Is laser skin resurfacing painful?

Many patients describe the sensation felt during laser skin resurfacing as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Very few experience pain during treatment.

Generally, ablative laser resurfacing is considered slightly more uncomfortable than non-ablative laser resurfacing because it is more invasive.

Can laser skin resurfacing be combined with other procedures?

If needed, laser skin resurfacing can be combined with other treatments to address other signs of aging such as facial volume loss. For instance, laser skin resurfacing can smooth out wrinkles and dermal filler injections can plump up areas of the face that have lost volume. Dr. Lee and the team at Enhance^® Medical Center customize treatment to each patient’s individual goals.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments needed is based on the specific skin concerns being treated and the type of laser being used.

When will I be able to see the results?

Some people notice an improvement in their skin almost immediately after treatment, and others require a few treatments before they see any difference.

Does having darker skin preclude me from laser skin resurfacing?

Patients with darker skin tones can safely undergo laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Lee and our team work with every patient to identify the safest and most effective resurfacing option.

Does it matter what time of year laser skin resurfacing is performed?

Patients are often advised to undergo laser skin resurfacing during the fall or winter months. Laser-treated skin is very sensitive to sun exposure, so many people find it more convenient to have treatment during the cooler months, when they spend more time indoors.

Can suntanned skin be treated?

Yes, laser skin resurfacing can treat suntanned skin. Our team might need to adjust the settings of the laser for best results.

Can I apply makeup over the treated skin?

Proceed with caution when applying makeup to treated skin. Our team generally recommends waiting approximately five to seven days after laser skin resurfacing before applying makeup to the treated skin.