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Laser Skin Resurfacing near Fort Lauderdale, FL

Laser energy is one of the newer technologies in the field of plastic surgery, and Dr. David J. Levens, a board-certified plastic surgeon, offers laser skin resurfacing to his patients in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.  The treatments address many common skin conditions, such as wrinkles, scars, uneven skin color, and blemishes.

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat facial skin wrinkling, unevenness, and discoloration which can result from a wide range of factors including aging, sun exposure, acne scarring, heredity, pregnancy, use of birth control pills, poor nutrition, alcohol consumption, and smoking.

A laser beam is used to remove layers of facial skin. As the skin heals, a new, smoother and more attractive layer of skin emerges.

It can be used to treat the entire face or specific areas and can produce results from a mild tightening to a total resurfacing.

Dr. Levens performs SharpLight™ Laser Skin Treatments.

 

How Much Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost?

The cost of laser skin resurfacing treatments is based upon an individual treatment plan that Dr. Levens develops during your consultation.  After the appointment, we provide you with a total cost and explain our payment options, including cash, personal check, Visa®, MasterCard® and American Express®.  If you are interested in financing your treatment with laser skin resurfacing, our patient coordinators will explain how to apply for CareCredit®, Alphaeon Credit, or Prosper® Healthcare Lending.

Good Candidates for Laser Skin Resurfacing

Generally, healthy men and women of any age who have any of the following conditions are good candidates for this treatment: Wrinkled or sun-damaged facial skin, vertical wrinkles around the mouth (which cause lipstick “bleed”), “crow’s feet” beside the eyes, fine wrinkling of upper eyelids, moderate skin laxity in lower eyelids, brown spots or blotchy skin coloring, certain types of precancerous skin growths, acne or chicken pox scars, or superficial facial scars.

Individuals with a variety complexions, including some darker-skinned individuals, can be successfully treated with laser. However, some skin characteristics, such as thickness and texture, can impact the effectiveness of this treatment. During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Levens will carefully evaluate your face to determine whether or not laser skin resurfacing can achieve your particular goals and explain the level of improvement you might expect.

What Happens During Laser Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure. Prior to your treatment, Dr. Levens will prescribe a pre-treatment program of special creams, lotions or gels which should be applied for several weeks or longer before your laser resurfacing. You may also be given oral medications.

During the treatment, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is used to remove layers of skin through vaporization. Dr. Levens tailors the energy level and depth of penetration to your skin characteristics and the degree of resurfacing desired. A local anesthesia and/or intravenous sedation may be used, or occasionally general anesthesia if desired.

When the treatment is completed, Dr. Levens may cover your resurfaced skin with petroleum jelly or another protective ointment. Sometimes, a tape or bandage is applied.

Special Considerations for Laser Treatment Patients

Laser skin resurfacing is a popular and generally very safe procedure when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. However, every surgical procedure carries some risk. Complications for laser skin resurfacing can include infection, abnormal healing, eruptions of prior skin problems such as allergies and herpes, skin irritation, and scarring.

After your resurfacing, you must avoid direct or indirect exposure to the sun until all the redness or pinkness of your skin has subsided. After that, Dr. Levens will recommend that you continue to protect your skin with regular use of sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat.

Recovery after Your Laser Treatment

Your post-procedure recovery schedule will depend upon the extent of laser skin resurfacing you have done. Dr. Levens will advise you in advance what to expect. In most cases, you should arrange for someone to drive you home after your laser skin resurfacing and perhaps assist you for one to two days. You will have redness and swelling for 7 to 10 days while your new layer of facial skin begins to form. Dr. Levens will prescribe a post-procedure regimen which may include special cleansing instructions and application of ointment. Men must delay shaving for a time. After the initial redness fades, the skin may be pink for several weeks or even months, but can be camouflaged with make-up after the first few weeks.

A typical recovery schedule for laser resurfacing of the face is:

  • Redness and swelling for 7 to 10 days.
  • Pinkness for several weeks or months.
  • Return to work within 7 to 10 days or sooner if comfortable with appearance.
  • Partake in aerobic or strenuous activities within 14 to 21 days.

Learn More about Laser Skin Resurfacing

Dr. Levens will review every aspect of laser skin resurfacing with you during your complimentary consultation. Patient Coordinators Diana and Chris will discuss fees, financing plans, and scheduling, and answer any additional questions. There is absolutely no obligation to schedule a procedure. To arrange your consultation, please contact us today.

Dr. Levens has been providing laser skin resurfacing for patients in Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Broward County since 1989.