For patients who want to improve their appearance, laser surgery can be a quick, minimally invasive option to achieve cosmetic goals. Laser therapy uses beams of light of different wavelengths to perform specific operations with utmost precision. Cosmetic procedures requiring tissue removal or regeneration can benefit from laser therapy ranging from resurfacing skin to improving the appearance of scars.
If you are new to laser treatments or considering getting laser cosmetic surgery, this article is for you. Read on to learn more about how laser therapy improves cosmetic surgery and examples of common cosmetic laser treatments.
Benefits of Laser Surgery
The popularity of laser technology in cosmetic surgery continues to increase thanks to its many benefits. Laser technology has made cosmetic surgery faster, more accurate, and more efficient. Besides increasing accuracy, laser therapy results in less damage to surrounding tissues which results in less scarring. It also minimizes bleeding and swelling during and after treatment while shortening recovery times.
Common Laser Cosmetic Treatments
Laser therapy is helpful in a wide range of cosmetic procedures. Below are common laser cosmetic treatments you can get:
1. Laser Skin Resurfacing
You might choose laser resurfacing if you are looking for smoother, more youthful skin. The procedure uses laser light to improve the appearance of your facial skin by removing fine lines, enhancing skin complexion, and treating skin tone loss. You can also minimize or eliminate acne scars and age spots.
During treatment, your doctor will numb your skin before directing the laser beams on the affected areas. The laser removes the epidermis and stimulates collagen production to enhance skin appearance.
2. Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a long-lasting solution for removing unwanted hair anywhere on your body. It can also minimize the occurrence of ingrown hairs. For the best results, you must undergo several treatments to target hair follicles in different stages of growth. It can take up to 3 weeks to start seeing results, and full results may require 8 to 12 treatments.
3. Laser Tattoo Removal
You can always opt for laser tattoo removal when you no longer want a tattoo and need to remove it instead of covering it. The treatment uses laser light to break down pigment on your skin, reducing the appearance of unwanted tattoos or completely removing them. You will require several treatments to eliminate the tattoo, with your tattoo becoming lighter after every treatment.
4. Laser Spider Vein Treatment
Spider veins usually occur on the legs due to weak valves that allow blood to accumulate in the veins and exert pressure. This causes the veins to bulge, resulting in spider veins. Hormonal changes, injury, and sunlight can also cause the condition. Besides being an aesthetic issue, spider veins can be irritating and uncomfortable.
The laser beams are directed at the affected veins to destroy them without harming the surrounding skin and tissues. Your body will reabsorb the veins 4 to 6 weeks after treatment, causing them to disappear.
Final Thoughts
If you are contemplating laser cosmetic treatment, it is always wise to consult your doctor first. This is because not everyone is the right candidate for cosmetic treatments. For example, some skin conditions may be suitable for laser therapy. By speaking to your doctor, you will know whether it is the appropriate treatment for you, depending on your specific situation.