The appearance of your facial skin reflects your health and vitality. Your skin is affected by a variety of factors, including aging, exposure to the sun and smoking. Skin resurfacing can improve your skin's appearance, reducing wrinkles and acne scarring, by removing the top layer of your skin.

There are many considerations to make when deciding on the best approach for facial skin resurfacing. Skin type, age, color, medical history and environmental exposure are all factors to consider when making the decision to have resurfacing. After carefully evaluating your skin, Dr. Schaler will suggest a treatment plan.

Laser skin resurfacing is done with a carbon dioxide laser. This laser sweeps across your face and removes the top layer of skin. This procedure may be done in combination with other procedures, such as face lifts or eyelid lifts. It may also be performed along with nose and chin and cheek refinement and shaping. The procedure is performed in our surgical suite with a variety of anesthesia options.

Following the procedure, the patient wears a facial mask to protect the skin for the first two days. Patients will experience some crusting and redness. The crusting usually lasts three to four days after removal of the mask. Redness can last up to six weeks as your skin goes through different stages of healing. It is very important to be well protected from the sun for three to six months after laser skin resurfacing.

There are alternative ways to encourage the outer layer of the skin to peel, revealing a newer, smoother skin beneath. Peels, increasing in depth, include glycolic, TCA and Baker's peels. Dr. Schaler's evaluation will help you to make an informed decision as to the best treatment for you.

Another option for skin rejuvenation is microdermabrasion. This procedure, performed in a series of treatments by our nurse/estheticians, uses microcrystals and is less invasive than a pharmaceutical peel. Most patients experience little or no down time and may return to work after the procedure. A microdermabrasion can be effective on some types of scars and wrinkles.

Whatever your skin resurfacing needs, Dr. Schaler can help you learn more about your options. You may select a treatment plan that helps you achieve healthier, smoother skin.