Laser Skin Resurfacing in San Francisco, CA
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Book NowAbout Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is a minimally-invasive skin-rejuvenating technique that uses laser technology to stimulate collagen and grow healthier, younger looking skin. At Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology, our team of skin care professionals uses laser resurfacing to treat wrinkles, crepiness, sun spots, and acne scars. Our team of medical professionals use the most advanced resurfacing lasers available - Fraxel Re:pair and Fraxel Dual - to help our patients achieve stunning results. In fact, Dr. Andrea Hui Austin is the #1 provider of Fraxel Re:pair treatments in the United States.
Laser Variations
Prior to treatment, a provider will consult with you to determine which laser and settings will address your needs and give you the best outcome. Fraxel re:pair typically recommended for skin showing severe signs of skin damage such as deep frown lines and wrinkles, crepiness, sun spots, and redness caused by sun damage. The Fraxel re:pair uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to vaporize microscopic columns of tissue deep within the skin. Recovery time is around three weeks.
Soon after treatment, the skin will be softer, brighter, and more even-toned. Then over the next four to six months, as the skin continues to heal, new collagen forms to creating healthier, younger looking skin.
For skin showing less severe signs of aging, a light or moderate Fraxel re:pair treatment may be recommended. Lighter settings are less invasive, penetrating more superficial layers of the skin and reducing the overall recovery time.
Light or moderate Fraxel re:pair treatments are appropriate for patients with less sun damage and more shallow lines and wrinkles. Lighter treatments may also be used preventatively, to keep wrinkles and other signs of aging at bay.
Fraxel Dual is a non-ablative laser that effectively treats older skin cells while leaving the skin’s protective barrier intact. Fraxel Dual is FDA approved to treat wrinkles around the eyes, acne scars, surgical scars, age spots/sun spots, melasma (irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and nose), and Actinic Keratoses (precancerous lesions).
The Fraxel Dual has less downtime than deep Fraxel re:pair treatments - about 3-5 days. However, more than one treatment may be necessary to see maximum results. Here at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology, we have a variety of laser skin resurfacing options to address your skin’s specific needs.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Reviews
The staff and Dr. Welsh are amazing. They care about the outcome, healthy preventative skin care routines and are the best in the business.
I flew from Boston to see Dr. Austin and it was absolutely worth it! Hands down, I get the best outcome and value every time I visit BACD and I’ll be back!
…new to the clinic and all of the procedures and products…I felt very vulnerable coming, after being told by another doctor that my skin was too far gone in the aging process to do anything other than a facelift…I went to see Dr. Austin for a second opinion and she was certain she could help…my skin, appearance and confidence were boosted by my first treatment, and now I’m committed to on-going maintenance with her expertise guiding me…I need a fair amount of reassurance because the whole anti-aging process can be a slippery slope …Dr. Austin’s patient care is as important to me as treatment…
First class cosmetic dermatology. A place that is pleasant to go to and makes the world a more attractive place. Dr. Welsh is always fun to be around and knows what she is doing. Rare in the world of skin care!
Professional from check in through numbing process and the clear and brilliant treatment.
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Total Reviews
4.9
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What to Expect
Even though laser skin resurfacing is nonsurgical and is considered noninvasive, there generally is some downtime associated with the procedure depending on the depth of the treatment. To ease any discomfort during treatment, provider may choose to numb the skin using either a topical numbing cream or injections a local anesthetic. A sedative may also be given to relax the patient. During laser skin resurfacing, the provider will deliver brief, pulsating beams of light to the treatment area.The laser will provide controlled wounding to the chosen depth of treatment, stimulating collagen growth.
Other Considerations
After the procedure, the treated skin will appear red, swollen, and raw. With deep Fraxel re:pair treatments, pinpoint bleeding, as well as oozing for up to 48 hours, are common post-procedure side effects. Other temporary side effects include mild itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking. Crusting can also occur, so the patient must refrain from picking since this can lead to permanent scarring.
Directly following treatment, a medical assistant will apply a thick, protective ointment and cover the area with gauze to protect the treated skin. During recovery, the treated area will need to be kept clean and protected. Detailed Post Care Instructions will be given to the patient prior to leaving the office.
New skin is usually generated in about one to two weeks. Following a Fraxel Dual treatment, swelling lasting about one to two days and redness lasting about three days, are the most common side effects. Skin may also appear temporarily bronzed. Itching, peeling, and flaking skin are also experienced.
Once this process is complete, new skin will appear in its place that is healthier, brighter, younger looking, and more even-toned.
Learn More About Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology
About UsRestore Damaged Skin
Our office offers numerous laser resurfacing options for sun-damaged and aging skin. Laser skin resurfacing can be a great option based on the patient’s individual condition, aesthetic goals, budget, as well as pain tolerance and allowance for recovery time. Call our office today to find out if laser resurfacing is for you!
