:: MicroLaserPeel™ - "The Weekend Peel"
What is the MicroLaserPeel?
It is a minimal to full epidermal laser peel that precisely removes the outermost layers of the skin. The procedure is individually tailored to the nature of the problem to be corrected: wrinkles, scars, keratoses, or pigmentation problems.
Who is a candidate?
The patient looking for better results than microdermabrasion or light chemical peels can offer, yet, still has little time for the healing process. This "weekend" skin peel treats skin conditions associated with aging and an active lifestyle. You can see real improvements in just a few days.
Patients who are pregnant, have a history of radiation therapy to the treatment area, or who have taken Accutane in the last 2 years should not undergo the MicroLaserPeel. Although this is a good treatment for shallow acne scars, it is not appropriate for active acne or deep acne pits. A history of cold sores will slightly raise your risk of a scar complication, but this is relatively low as all patients are started on antiviral medication for deeper MicroLaserPeels.
What is the MicroLaserPeel like?
The MicroLaserPeel is a minimal to full epidermal peel (20-50 microns). Because this procedure goes deeper into the epidermis, it is the perfect step between microdermabrasion and deeper peels.
A topical anesthetic such as Ela-max, EMLA or Betacaine Plus is applied 45 to 60 minutes before the procedure.
How does the MicroLaserPeel work?
Lasers work by emitting a specialized light that passes through the skin and is preferentially absorbed by water in the damaged collagen of your skin. This action allows the laser light to ablate (evaporate) very fine layers of skin, diminishing the look of the wrinkle and other unwanted textures. The older skin is remodeled into newer skin. As new cells form in the healing process, the skin becomes smoother and softer.
What type of equipment is used?
CFI uses a Sciton Contour TM 2940 nm Er:YAG Laser for this procedure.
What desired results can be expected?
You will obtain smoother, healthier and more vibrant skin. You will notice a significant and immediate change in skin texture and tightness when compared to microdermabrasion.
One procedure could be sufficient for at least 6 to12 months, but additional procedures can be performed as required. A package of three to four treatments is usually best, and this will be determined at your consultation.
Before and After pictures of MicroLaserPeel
Are there any negatives?
Erythema (redness) after any peeling procedure is expected and this should dissipate over the next two to four days. The incidence of infection is very low, yet your healing process will be checked on your post-treatment visits.
There is a slight risk of hyper- (too much) pigmentation in darker skin people. Those patients with a current suntan are additionally at risk for hyperpigmentation as the pigment cells are already hyperstimulated. Your CFI physician may pretreat your skin in an attempt to minimize your pigment reaction. Despite this pretreatment, temporary hyperpigmentation is anticipated when resurfacing skin of Hispanic or Asian descent.
Scarring is an extremely rare complication, especially with the Er:YAG laser and the fact that the MicroLaserPeel does not go very deep. Yet, patients who develop a wound infection or contact dermatitis are at risk of forming a scar, as are people with a history of keloid formation. .
What happens after the MicroLaserPeel?
Your skin will be occluded with either an ointment such as Aquafore or Vaseline. This is used as a barrier to keep the air away from your skin while it regenerates a new surface epithelium. You will probably use this for one to two days. After that, a moisturizer can be used.
The healing process varies from patient to patient but will generally take from two to four days. The procedure can be performed on Saturday and you can return to work the following Tuesday or Wednesday. Immediately following the procedure you will feel as if you have a sunburn. You will have minor sloughing and itchiness the following day. By day two, redness will begin to fade to pinkness, and by day three any redness can be easily covered by makeup.
Your new skin will be sensitive to ultra-violet light and you must avoid sun exposure until fully healed. You need to cover your skin, wear a hat, and use a good sun screen if your have to go outdoors.
Is there another way to get the same effect?
Alternatives to MicroLaserPeel include Dermabrasion, light Chemical peels, and Microdermabrasion.
How is this different than other procedures?
MicroLaserPeel allows the practitioner to have much greater control over the depth of the peel than dermabrasion and chemical peels. In addition, there is a favorable heating which tightens the skin's collagen.
Generally, microdermabrasion only removes the outer layer (stratum corneum, 10-15 microns) of the skin. Patients may become dissatisfied when the perceived results do not equal expense and the number of procedures required. The MicroLaserPeel is a minimal to full epidermal peel (20-50 microns). Because this procedure goes deeper into the epidermis, it is the perfect step between microdermabrasion and deeper peels.
Can this be combined with other treatments?
We combine this treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic , Injectable fillers such as RestylaneT and tissue tightening procedures such as Thermage T (LINKS TO ALL OF THESE). All of these procedures compliment and enhance each other.
What is the cost of the MicroLaserPeel?
The fees for the MicroLaserPeel are based on the areas being treated. A package of three to four treatments is usually best, and will be discussed. All potential candidates must first undergo an in-person consultation. Please call our office to schedule a consultation.
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