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Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a procedure where a laser tool emits a beam of light on the skin and burns off the surface cells of the skin which smoothes scar tissue. With new Laser Skin Resurfacing technology it is now possible to reduce, and in some cases remove, facial wrinkles, acne scars and other facial scars, and a variety of skin growths and blemishes.

Laser resurfacing is also know as laser peel, laser rejuvenation, laser surgery. In most cases the results are a moderate to marked reduction in facial lines and wrinkles, a more even skin tone and texture, reshape scar tissue and reduce redness, and fresher healthier looking skin.

All wrinkles are reduced, but those caused by the sun, especially those around the eyes and lips respond best. Acne scars and facial scars from surgery or trauma may be reduced but very deep scars cannot be completely removed. An entire face can be treated in 40 minutes. You will be comfortable under twilight anaesthesia (sedation), local anaesthesia, or general anaesthesia. Usually it takes one to four weeks to heal completely. Repeat procedures are sometimes required.

Photos From: 21st Century Laser Skin Care
Before & After Laser Resurfacing Photos:

Before & After Laser Resurfacing Photos:

The opinion of Dr. Marcus Melvin, MD:
Laser Resurfacing: The energy of a laser beam is used to burn off the surface cells of the skin, which gives a smoother and rejuvenated skin. This helps remove wrinkles and flatten creases. While the procedure works well to resurface, I just do not like the end result. The problems with laser resurfacing are mostly to do with the fact that the laser wound is still a burn wound, and the skin can too often look like a burn wound after it has healed. That is, if the laser has been deep enough to effectively remove wrinkles, it may leave the skin shiny as well as smooth; there is too often residual redness, or redness for too long; there may be more pigmentation, which can be permanent. For me, these risks are not worth the benefit of the resurfacing.
Dr. Marcus Melvin MD
9200 SW Barnes Road, Portland, OR 97225-6624
Consultations are by appointment, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7:30am - 3pm
Tel: (503) 297-1414 Fax: (503) 297-1576, Email: info@drmelvin.com