Am I A Candidate For Laser Skin Resurfacing?
At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we focus on being at the forefront of innovative techniques, and our laser treatments are no exception. Utilizing the newest technology allows our doctors to reach the most consistent and natural results. Laser treatments are safe, effective, and minimally invasive, while allowing for extreme precision in delicate areas of the body.
Laser skin resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, is the process of using concentrated, pulsating beams of light directed at irregular skin to reduce wrinkles, scars and blemishes.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR LASER SKIN RESURFACING?
Unwanted blemishes, wrinkles, or visible scars can have a negative impact on our self-image. Laser skin resurfacing can improve the appearance of:
- Fine lines around the eyes, mouth, or forehead
- Acne scars
- Sun-damaged skin
- Age spots
- Birthmarks
- Skin discoloration
Those with very dark skin tones may not be an ideal candidate for laser skin resurfacing, as they have a greater risk of healing with darker and/or lighter pigmentation. Based on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type scale, if your pigmentation is considered Type IV or higher, laser skin resurfacing may not be the best course of treatment for you. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine your skin type and the best treatment options.
Laser skin resurfacing is not a treatment for excessive or sagging skin, though it is sometimes used as an adjunct procedure to a facelift. Always make sure that your procedure is being performed by a plastic surgeon that is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and thoroughly trained in laser treatments.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION
If you believe that you are a candidate for laser skin resurfacing, contact the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago to schedule a consultation. You will meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon and discuss your aesthetic goals and review your medical history. Your plastic surgeon will perform an evaluation to see if laser skin resurfacing is the best option for you. At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we never perform a procedure unless we are certain it is the right course of treatment for each individual patient. If you have any questions about the procedure, the potential risks, or the associated cost, the consultation is the ideal time to ask.
HOW LASER SKIN RESURFACING IS PERFORMED
Before laser skin resurfacing is performed, your plastic surgeon may start you on skin treatments up to six weeks before the procedure to prepare the treatment areas.
To begin, a local anesthetic is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. Laser skin resurfacing typically takes between thirty minutes and two hours, depending on the extent of the treatment. The laser vaporizes damaged skin cells, removing the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) while simultaneously heating the underlying layer (the dermis) to stimulate the growth of collagen fibers. The result is firmer and smoother skin.
RECOVERY AFTER LASER SKIN RESURFACING
Laser skin resurfacing is an outpatient procedure, so patients can typically return home the same day. Some redness and swelling is normal; most patients report the sensation of a mild sunburn after laser treatment.
The treated areas of the skin may appear raw, and in some cases, may blister. It is important not to scratch or pick at the skin because it can cause unfavorable scarring. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe a topical treatment to help the skin heal. You may also be directed to use sunscreen and/or moisturizer to keep the sensitive skin safe and healthy while it heals.
Within a week of the procedure, the treated skin will become dry and peel, giving way to smoother skin with visibly reduced blemishes or wrinkles.
POTENTIAL RISKS OF LASER SKIN RESURFACING
The potential risks of laser skin resurfacing are infrequent and fairly minor, but there are associated complications with any procedure. The potential risks of laser skin resurfacing may include:
- Infection
- Acne breakout
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Prolonged redness
- Unfavorable scarring
At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we take every precaution possible to mitigate potential risks by using the safest and most innovative techniques. You can further reduce the chance of complications by adhering strictly to all instructions issued by your plastic surgeon, both before and after the procedure.
WHAT DOES LASER SKIN RESURFACING COST?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports a national average of around $2,400 for a laser skin resurfacing treatment, though this cost will vary according to your geographic location, the plastic surgeon performing the procedure, and the extent of your aesthetic goals.
Laser skin resurfacing is considered a cosmetic procedure, and as such is usually not covered by medical insurance. You can speak with your plastic surgeon during your consultation about the cost and payment options.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you suffer from unwanted wrinkles, scars, or blemishes and believe you might be a candidate for laser skin resurfacing, give us a call at the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago. You will meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your aesthetic goals and review all aspects of the procedure. Your consultation is the first step towards both looking and feeling like a better version of yourself.
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Happy National Botox Day! 💉
Botox isn’t just about smoothing fine lines and wrinkles; it has many additional medical benefits too!
Benefits of Botox include:
✨ Migraines: Botox can help reduce the frequency of migraines, especially for people who experience headaches 15 or more days per month.Â
✨ Excessive sweating: Botox can help with excessive sweating, also known as Hyperhidrosis, by paralyzing the muscles around sweat glands.Â
✨ Eye problems: Botox can correct physical eye problems like lazy eye, crossed eyes, and rapid eye blinking.Â
✨ Neck spasms: Botox can help with neck spasms, also known as Cervical Dystonia, which can cause the neck muscles to contract uncontrollably.Â
✨ Jaw tension: Botox can help with jaw tension and TMJ by reducing muscle activity in the masseter muscle.
📆 Book your consultation and let’s talk Botox!Â
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✨ Post-surgery care is key to achieving your best results! ✨
Here are a few tips to help minimize scar visibility:
1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions Carefully!
This typically includes keeping incisions clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and wearing recommended tissue-healing support garments if needed.
2. Use Silicone-Based Products!
Applying silicone sheets or gels can reduce scar thickness and discoloration. These products create a protective barrier to maintain moisture levels and promote smoother skin regeneration.
3. Massage Gently!
Once cleared by your plastic surgeon, gently massaging the scar tissue can improve circulation and flexibility to soften or fade scars.
4. Protect from Sun Exposure!
Exposing healing scars to sunlight can cause darkening and prolong the healing process. Use SPF, a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and cover the area appropriately when spending time outdoors.
5. Consider Advanced Treatments!
Treatments like laser therapy or microdermabrasion may benefit persistent or prominent scars more. These treatments can enhance skin texture and color, making scars less noticeable. Always consult with your plastic surgeon before pursuing additional treatments.
Remember, patience is part of the process! ❤️
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Ever wonder how plastic surgeons create custom facial implants? 🤔
Plastic surgeons will use a CT scan of your face and work with engineers to surgically design and plan the custom implants. The models and implants are created with a 3D printer, which are then used in the operating room. The implants can be made with a number of different materials, for example titanium or PEEK (Polyetheretherketone). The main advantage of Virtual Surgical Planning is being able to customize the surgical plan to the patient’s anatomy and goals. ✨
Posted with permission. This is an educational post.
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Liposuction VS. Tummy Tuck, what’s the difference? 👀
Although they can target similar areas, they target different needs. Let’s talk about it! ✨
✍️ Liposuction is ideal for removing stubborn fat deposits, offering targeted sculpting without major surgery. This procedure removes unwanted and excess fat from the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck through tiny incisions. This is a less invasive procedure and has a quicker recovery time as compared to a tummy tuck. A liposuction is usually performed on people who are close to their ideal weight and have firm skin.
✍️ A Tummy Tuck goes deeper, targeting abdominal muscles and removing excess skin for a firmer, smoother appearance. A Tummy Tuck is the common term given to Abdominoplasty, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen through a larger incision. The goal of this procedure is a smoother, flatter, well-defined abdomen and, in some cases, to restore weakened muscles of the abdomen. It’s typically performed on people who have lost a significant amount of weight or have gone through pregnancy.
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Can you spot the difference between the before and after? 🔍
This patient wanted and underwent a subtle, natural-looking lip lift to improve the height and proportions of her upper lip and the amount of tooth show. Post-op, the surgical site scar is nearly invisible, lying flat and soft against the skin. The difference might be subtle, but the results speak for themselves! đź‘„
Posted with permission.
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Can you believe we removed nearly 5 pounds of breast tissue? 🌸
Breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess fat and glandular tissue from the breasts to reach a size that is proportionate to other parts of the body. This transformative procedure can equally be useful in alleviating discomfort from overly large breasts. The weight of excess breast tissue can lead to physical issues, such as back problems and neck pain. From reducing back pain to enhancing everyday mobility and confidence, breast reduction can be a life-changing step toward feeling more comfortable in your body. ✨
Posted with permission.
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Check out this incredible transformation! 💪 This patient wanted to improve the contour and aesthetics of his lower face, jawline, and neck—especially on his profile view. His primary concerns were a poorly defined jawline and excess skin around the neck.
After undergoing neck liposuction and a sliding genioplasty, the results speak for themselves! The neck muscles were tightened, excess fat removed, and the overall balance of his face was greatly enhanced. Now, in the post-operative photos, his jawline and neck contour are more defined, and his overall appearance has a more youthful, refreshed look. Posted with permission. ✨
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Fall and Winter 🤝 The Best Seasons for Plastic Surgery
Why are Fall and Winter the best times to get plastic surgery?
1. Less Sun Exposure
— Reduced sunlight is favorable for minimizing hyperpigmentation and promoting scar healing.
2. Loose-Fitting Clothes
— Wearing layers of loose clothing in the colder months allows for more protection of surgical areas and easier concealment of bandages and compression garments, making the recovery process less noticeable.
3. Reduced Swelling
— Cooler temperatures help to minimize swelling after surgery and speed up the recovery process.
4. Holiday Time Off
— The holiday season usually provides extended time off from work or school, which is beneficial for post-operative recovery
At our clinic, patient care is our top priority, and choosing the right time for your procedure is part of that commitment. Thus, we optimally recommend the fall and winter time to plan, undergo, and recover from plastic surgery. 🍂❄️
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