Laser resurfacing, also known as a "laser peel," uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. Resurfacing is commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes, but it can also be effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing can be performed in specific regions or on the whole face.

Laser resurfacing is still a fairly new procedure, but in some cases, this procedure produces less bleeding, bruising, and post-operative discomfort than is usually seen with other resurfacing methods.

Finding the Best Surgeon

Choosing a laser surgeon is similar to choosing a qualified specialist for any medical procedure. "Auto mechanics are getting more questions from customers," adds Alster. "Surgery has its own set of dangers and problems, and this is a treatment." It may appear to be straightforward, but it is not. When it comes to skin, it is more difficult to treat than eyes."

Starting your search online is a splendid idea. Thousands of websites, including those for experts, laser and plastic surgery groups, and information pages, are available to consumers. However, customers should be wary of assuming the accuracy of any information obtained from the Internet, as the unscrupulous may readily create their own Web pages just as easily as the competent.

Alster recommends interviewing a number of doctors and examining their responses as well as their credentials. After all, she points out, it's the doctor's competence that matters and the laser is only a tool.

The following step is critical: asking the appropriate questions. Alster suggests inquiring about the doctor's training and whether he or she owns or leases the equipment—those who own have most certainly made a commitment to laser surgery and training. Inquire about the doctor's before and after photos, as well as how many various types of lasers he or she has and how often each piece of equipment is utilized. "There isn't one laser that can do everything," she says, advising patients to choose a physician for Laser scar resurfacing in Coimbatore who uses many laser systems. The right laser must be utilized for the right lesion. "As a result, the examiner must make the right diagnosis," she explains. In her office, Alster has at least ten different lasers.

Of course, no doctor can guarantee perfection or total safety, but well-informed patients with realistic expectations may be one step closer to younger, fresher-looking skin.