Plastic surgery is in the media regularly with celebrities constantly fielding questions regarding the look of them and if the go underneath the scalpel to 'enhance' themselves. The trickle down effect is worldwide, cosmetic surgery has increased. What's often forgotten however is cosmetic laser skin treatment. Since laser light treatments began in 1958, using lasers for cosmetic reasons has slowly increased in popularity but avoids the spotlight that surgery dominates. - Sean Darcy MD
Laser treatments for cosmetic reasons are not a planned progression. Originally they were used to treat acne scars to smooth on the skin across the scar. It was then noticed the wrinkles across the scars were less prominent when the lasers had go beyond the skin in the process.
The lasers are highly concentrated beams of sunshine that may target certain some other part of our bodies and skin depending on the wavelength with the light. If the light hits the tissue, heat is generated which either destroys or deactivates cells. As research continue increasingly more details are being discovered about how exactly we lasers can be used cosmetically.
Cosmetic cosmetic laser treatments are commonly used on the face area. The lasers modify the collagen inside the skin. As we grow older the collagen inside our skin naturally breaks down. Laser treatment generates new youthful collagen which eliminates the wrinkles that people so often despise.
You can find more forms of cosmetic laser treatments currently available.
- Laser skin resurfacing
- Laser elimination of birthmarks/skin lesions
- Laser transplants
Though it would appear to become a science using beams of light, the risks associated with treatment (just like any cosmetic changes) needs to be done by highly qualified doctors. Even though the side effects are usually less harmful than surgery, the quantity of treatments might need to increase for that desired result to take effect.
Cosmetic laser treatments usually are not yet suitable for everybody. The changes a therapy sports one patient may be completely different than someone else that has had the same cosmetic laser facial treatment. Complexion and hair color are the two most common factors that are examined when looking for whether an individual is an appropriate candidate for laser skin treatment. Individuals with darker skin and/or red, grey and blonde hair will probably not see results that they want. Ideal candidates are those with whiter skin and darker hair.
Post treatment, doctors will normally recommend followup procedures plus they have to be closely followed to make sure that the treatment contributes to the greatest results possible.
Cost is are always nervous about any cosmetic treatment. Laser treatments are less costly than surgery equivalents, but do keep in mind any follow-up treatments required and whether you are planning to gain a long-term solution together with your treatment. - Sean Darcy MD