Imperfections on the skin cause discomfort, especially if it is the skin of a woman’s face or hands. However, thanks to developing technologies in the world of beauty and medicine, it has become possible to get rid of imperfections using both aesthetic cosmetology using chemicals and mechanical effects on the epidermis.
Among the safest and most effective methods of getting rid of skin imperfections (scars and cicatrices) is laser skin resurfacing. Laser scar resurfacing gives excellent results, as can be seen from the photos before and after the procedure .
Features of the laser scar resurfacing method
It is impossible to completely remove imperfections on the skin , but thanks to laser resurfacing, and then the use of special medicinal products that restore the skin, they become almost invisible.
Human skin is formed from 3 layers: subcutaneous fat, dermis, epidermis. In case of damage to the dermis, the human body quickly responds to the impact and covers the wound with a lump of blood. The body's cells then produce collagen, which forms scar tissue.
The procedure for resurfacing scars with a laser allows you to quickly remove the defect and even out the surface and color of the affected area. The results before and after surgery are amazing!
To understand how laser resurfacing works, you need to know the characteristics and types of scars.
There are these types of scars:
- Normotrophic;
- Atrophic;
- Keloids;
- Tightened;
- Hypertrophic;
- Stretch marks (striae).
The result of laser scar resurfacing before and after the procedure depends on the type, area and depth of skin damage.
Laser removal of scars and scars is done using 2 methods - erbium and neodymium lasers:
- Erbium laser produces classic grinding. Helps improve skin and remove blemishes. It destroys the top layer of the skin using a beam of light. The laser beam evaporates moisture from the tissue layer, due to which a new layer of skin is formed, cell regeneration starts, and blood circulation improves.
- Neodymium laser is one of the safest means for getting rid of scars. It is almost impossible to get a burn from it. The laser penetrates the skin 2 mm, and grinding is done pointwise. The main feature is that it affects diseased cells, but does not affect healthy ones. Removes scars of various origins.
Fractional photothermolysis
If you decide to take a safe course to restore the youth of your face and body, and most importantly, you want to see the result after the first procedure, then we can recommend you fractional photothermolysis. According to reviews from clients who have already used this technique, the skin looks fresher and tighter, crow's feet around the eyes practically disappear, and the procedure is painless.
In addition to rejuvenation, this technique is widely used for:
- eliminating spider veins
- stretch mark removal
- getting rid of scars, both superficial and deep. After all, photothermolysis involves influencing not only the epidermis, but also the deeper subcutaneous layer.
The course of fractional laser rejuvenation is prescribed individually; often patients only need to undergo 1-2 sessions to achieve the desired, lasting result.
Indications and contraindications for the procedure
Indications and contraindications are determined by a specialist individually for each patient.
Indications:
- Uneven skin texture;
- Enlarged pores;
- Acne scars;
- Shallow wrinkles;
- Freckles;
- Dark spots;
- Loose skin;
- Post-operative spots.
Laser resurfacing of age spots - before and after the procedure.
Contraindications:
- Skin inflammation;
- Psoriasis;
- Severe form of diabetes mellitus;
- Allergy;
- Eczema;
- Oncological skin diseases;
- Pregnancy.
Types of scars
Scars are a violation of the normal structure of the skin that appears as a result of healing of injuries or after surgical operations. Scar tissue lacks sweat glands and hair follicles. Due to changes in the amount of collagen, they acquire a shade that makes them stand out from the rest of the skin. Scars are not exposed to the sun and do not tan.
Types of scars are divided into 4 main groups:
- Atrophic ones appear as a result of minor damage to the skin, for example, after acne. They look like small pits in the skin that are lighter in color.
- Normotrophic scars are formed during the healing of minor superficial injuries. They do not stand out too much in color and structure from the rest of the skin, and over time they become almost invisible.
- Hypertrophic scars occur after serious injury or surgery. They are a compacted structure that rises above the surface of the skin and differs in color.
- Keloid scars occur when there is excess collagen production, causing connective tissue to grow around the scar. These formations are dense and lumpy, colored pink or red.
When choosing a laser skin treatment method, the cosmetologist takes into account the type of scar tissue.
Possible side effects and negative consequences
Side effects of this procedure are few, but they do exist.
Here is their list:
- Erythema . Erythema may occur 2 weeks after the procedure. It goes away in 3-4 months. This response of the body is explained by the individual inflammatory reaction of the skin or the immaturity of the new epithelium.
- Pigmentation disorders. Pigmentation disorders can be of 2 types: hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation often occurs in people with dark skin tones. Hypopigmentation is considered a sign of local death of melanocytes.
- Scarring . The most serious complications are scars. The risk of occurrence depends on the power of the radiation energy, the number of passes and the positivity of the pulse.
- Infectious complications. Infectious complications are unlikely, but possible. When sanding the skin, the tool does not touch the skin, and the thermal effect cleanses the skin. However, an infection that was previously sitting deep in the pores may appear.
Comparison of scars that can and cannot be treated with laser correction.
It is important to know! Sometimes, when resurfacing scars with a laser, other side effects are observed: milia or acne. To minimize the risk of their occurrence, you need to follow the recommendations of specialists both before and after surgery.
Effectiveness of fractional laser on scars
Using laser correction, scars of any kind can be completely eliminated or smoothed out (made invisible). The laser beam selectively removes connective (scar) tissue from the suture. At the same time, regeneration processes are activated in the treatment area under the influence of the laser, as a result of which the synthesis of collagen and elastin is enhanced, and a new layer of young and healthy skin is formed.
Important! Specialists at the ALODERM clinic in Moscow remind you that fresh scars are removed faster and more efficiently than old, dense ones.
How does the laser scar resurfacing procedure work step by step?
Laser scar resurfacing is carried out using various methods, but any procedure is divided into a number of stages. First, the skin area is anesthetized with a special agent , which is planned to be treated with a laser. If the procedure will be performed on the patient's face, anesthesia is administered and protective glasses are placed over the eyes.
Laser scar resurfacing lasts no more than 1 hour.
In the photographs before and after the procedure, you can see how much the skin changes due to the influence of the device. During this process, a slight burning sensation may be felt, which persists for some period of time even after the procedure is completed.
Laser scar resurfacing procedure.
Redness and swelling may appear, and a crust appears at the site of the scar, which lasts for about 7 days. The recovery process lasts about a week. This is the time to apply gauze bandages with antibacterial ointments. Before going outside, you need to apply sunscreen to your face.
Important! If the scars are deep, then an additional course of procedures is performed.
Ways to get rid of scars
Not everyone wants to use laser therapy right away. Getting rid of minor scars (especially acne scars) can be effectively helped with acid treatments, which are aimed at exfoliating dead skin. Additionally, if the scars are superficial, laser is not required. On the other hand, microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling are used for cosmetic scar relief. But if we solve laser, it's not easy either. In this case, we are faced with the choice of laser. The IPL laser is the gentlest, it is also the cheapest, but therefore the least effective. This allows you to get rid of flat, not too deep scars. The effect is visible only after several procedures. IPL is more recommended to remove facial joints and erythema than scars. To level the latter, there are special modern fractional lasers.
Is laser skin resurfacing painful?
To protect the patient from pain, the patient is given general anesthesia before performing the procedure. If the procedure is performed on a specific part of the face, local anesthesia is used.
If the scar area is small, then there may not be any particular pain even in the absence of anesthesia.
When the entire face is exposed, painkillers are used. For a long time after the end of the operation, warmth is felt under the skin. It can be either weak or strong. If the pain is unbearable, the patient is prescribed painkillers.
A bandage containing anesthetic gel or ointment is usually applied.
How to get rid of
There are various options to reduce scarring. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages.
Using ointments
Various ointments, creams and gels are very popular in the fight against scars. Sold in pharmacies without a prescription.
The main advantage of using them is that they can be used at home without special skills.
The quality of scar removal using cosmetic preparations depends on the size of the damage, its elevation above the surface of the skin, and whether the scar is fresh or old.
Using ointments, you can remove traces of chickenpox in children. A child's dermis is less susceptible to scarring than an adult's. Recently formed defects are easier to remove, but deep old scars require long-term treatment using additional correction methods.
To achieve the desired effect, consult your doctor before using medications. A qualified specialist will help you figure it out and choose the right ointment.
Hardware techniques
Laser resurfacing is a hardware cosmetic procedure that accelerates skin restoration and allows you to remove various defects by removing dead epidermal cells. A popular method for correcting facial scars, including acne scars. The procedure is painful, so it is performed under local anesthesia. Recovery occurs within 2 weeks. A lasting result can be expected after a course of procedures, the number of which depends on the type of device, size and age of the scar. Resurfacing is suitable for scars of any age.
The next type of hardware technique is microperforation.
Unlike a conventional laser, the skin is exposed to a beam of many micro-rays. Microperforation copes with old scars, acne marks, age spots. The course of treatment is 2-5 procedures, depending on the scale of the problem. Rehabilitation takes 3-4 days.
Dermabrasion is a mechanical method of influencing damaged areas. The brushes of the device gradually, layer by layer, polish uneven areas, leveling the area of damage.
Hardware techniques are used to get rid of atrophic and hypertrophic scars; they damage the skin in a controlled manner for its subsequent healing.
This method is not suitable for keloid scars - there is a risk of relapse, the damaged surface may increase.
Surgical intervention
Significant damage to the skin as a result of burns, wounds, inflammation, postoperative sutures can lead to the formation of deep and large scars. The consulting specialist decides whether to get rid of them through surgery.
Surgical removal of scars on the face, including the forehead, is a plastic surgery to remove scars. After the procedure, the scars will be less noticeable, but will not disappear completely. Over time, the marks may become invisible.
For atrophic scars, contour plastic surgery is used. Injections of a gel are administered, which pushes out the scar and aligns it with the surface of the skin.
During the operation, the surgeon excises the damaged tissue and cuts out the scar, then connects the edges of the wound. A cosmetic suture is applied, which is removed after 2 days. The operation is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Rehabilitation lasts a week.
If the scar tissue is large, you may need autotransplantation - transplantation of a healthy piece of skin from another part of the body.
Rehabilitation after the procedure, healing period
Rehabilitation takes a long time. If you follow the rules, you can avoid complications and possible negative effects. During the first week, you need to completely stop using cosmetics and stop washing your face with cosmetics.
Sunbathing is prohibited, and for some time before each exit, it is recommended to smear your face with sunscreen with a medium or high degree of protection against sunlight. If the sun's rays hit unprotected areas of the skin, hyperpigmentation may occur.
During the first week, on the area of skin that was treated you can observe:
- Peeling;
- blisters;
- Crust;
- Redness.
After laser resurfacing of scars, healing and restorative agents can be used.
There are special preparations for this – “Dermaheal post lazer cream”, for example. It is important to know! Laser resurfacing of scars increases the sensitivity of the skin, which may cause pain after the procedure. If the pain is severe, the doctor prescribes painkillers. This can be done both before and after surgery.
Effective and efficient
The only effective method of eliminating such layering is injections of a special drug. Depending on the size of the tumor, the time of its existence, pain and other factors, the cosmetic surgeon selects a medication with the required degree of effect. There is no special preparation for the manipulation. The medication is diluted with an anesthetic and the problem area is injected. Within one and a half to two months, the “growth” “melts before our eyes”: it resolves, leaving a fine network of blood vessels in its place. At this stage, phototherapy comes into play. For this purpose, our cosmetologists use the IPL-Quantum system, which coagulates spider veins thanks to a selective, pulsed flow of light. At the same time, surrounding healthy cells are not injured. Thus, an ugly, bright, attention-grabbing element will turn into an ordinary light, flat scar. At the request of the patient, it can be made almost invisible. This goal can be achieved through the introduction of collagen-containing gels, which activate the synthesis of new fibers and promote firmness and elasticity of the skin, or with a fractional laser, which stimulates collagen production.
When the result of grinding is visible
Patients of the laser resurfacing procedure for scars and scars say with confidence that it is progressive. The first noticeable results of the resurfacing are visible 2-3 weeks after the first operation.
The result of laser scar resurfacing - before and after the procedure.
More noticeable results are visible after 2-6 months. The effect appears after a full course of laser resurfacing. Pigment spots, acne marks, scars and scars become less noticeable. The skin changes and becomes smoother and more elastic.
The result of laser polishing lasts for a long time – up to several years. After this period has expired, you can repeat the procedure.
Laser treatment of keloid scars
After mechanical damage to the skin, a scar often remains.
Over time, it turns white and becomes less noticeable. However, there are cases when the connective tissue grows and a keloid scar forms. Unfortunately, the causes of keloids have not yet been studied and remain an important problem for dermatologists, cosmetologists and plastic surgeons. Keloid scars develop in men and women at different ages. There are areas of the body where keloids form more often than others. In 90% of cases, this is the sternum, upper third of the shoulder and nasolabial triangle. If it is possible to remove the scar surgically, and the plastic surgery of keloid scars differs significantly from standard surgical techniques, then the second stage is a course of physiotherapy and mesotherapy. In some cases, the use of selective lasers, buku therapy or intrascarinal injections of glucocoticoids is combined. But all manipulations are carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor. If for some reason the patient interrupts treatment, the results may be worse than the original problem. Therefore, good results can only be achieved with mutual cooperation between the doctor and the patient.
Hypertrophic scars are often confused with keloid scars. A keloid is different in that it tends to continually grow connective tissue and typically grows larger than the cut in the skin. Hypertrophic scars, increasing to a certain size, even without special treatment after 6-12 months, flatten and turn pale. Therefore, correct diagnosis of scars is of great importance for effective treatment.
In order to prescribe the correct treatment for keloid scars, it is necessary to make the correct diagnosis. The main task of a dermatologist is to differentiate a hypertrophic scar. Externally, different types of scars are similar, but a keloid is constantly growing, unlike a hypertrophic scar, which increases to a certain size and fades over time. The favorite location for keloid scars is the chest, ears, neck, shoulders, joints, and face. According to the stage of development, keloid scars are divided into young (3 months - 5 years), which have a red-burgundy color and a smooth shiny surface, and old (5-10 years) - paler, with an uneven surface.
Reasons for this problem:
- hereditary predisposition;
- disruption of the nervous, immune, endocrine systems;
- age-related changes.
Features:
- increased sensitivity and pain at the site of injury;
- skin hyperemia;
- clear boundary of the damage area;
- the size of the scar is larger than the wound on the skin;
- constant growth of connective tissue with an influx into healthy areas.
When should laser scar resurfacing be performed?
The number of necessary procedures is determined by a specialist . To do this, the condition of the skin, the depth of scars and scars are assessed. The outcome of laser resurfacing is noticeable after the first procedure.
If they suit the patient, then there is no need to carry out a whole course of laser treatment. Specialists carry out a repeated procedure if necessary. It is allowed to do this no earlier than after 2-3 months. Anti-aging skin resurfacing is allowed to be done no more than 1-2 times a year.
The result of several laser resurfacing procedures for deep scars - before and after.
This will be quite enough to achieve the result of getting rid of any types of wrinkles. also be carried out as a preventive measure , but in a simplified form. This way the skin will remain fresh and healthy looking.
Rehabilitation period
It does not require a radical change in the daily routine, much less hospitalization in a hospital. It is recommended to take care for three to four days until the injections heal. To avoid infection, avoid baths, saunas, swimming pools and sports for a while.
How many visits to a beauty salon will be required to completely get rid of such a nuisance will be decided by a cosmetologist. It may take months to achieve the effect - it all depends on the speed of cell regeneration, and this is individual.
If you are concerned about this problem, we recommend that you begin to eliminate it so as not to cause harm to your health. It’s better not to take risks when choosing a specialist and turn to professionals who won’t do any harm. We invite you to the Biomed Laser Therapy Center.
Where is laser resurfacing of scars and cicatrices performed? Cost of the procedure
Prices for laser resurfacing of scars and scars are individual and depend on many factors. It depends on the area of the area that is planned to be processed. The degree of problem of the skin matters.
The cost of laser scar resurfacing procedures can vary widely. As are the results before and after treatment. It may largely depend on the region in which it is carried out. And also from the clinic where laser resurfacing is performed.
For example, prices in Moscow may differ from prices in Yekaterinburg. The price varies from 5,000 rub. up to 60,000 rub. All conditions for the upcoming operation are discussed face-to-face with the administration of the clinic to which the person decided to go.
Operating room and equipment for laser scar resurfacing.
If the patient wants to make their skin healthier and more attractive, laser scar resurfacing is an option, showing the difference before and after. It does not cause severe discomfort after the procedure; in rare cases, it causes pain during surgery. The procedure is 100% safe , because only professional specialists using specialized equipment are allowed to carry it out.
Reviews
Last year I burned my hand. She was very careful with the burn while the wound healed, but a scar still remained. I went to the clinic for laser scar resurfacing. I had three operations between each of which there was a month. By the third time the scar was no longer visible at all. I was very afraid that it wouldn’t work out, but everything turned out great. Thank you very much to surgeon Mitish. E.V. I'm very glad that everything worked out.
Alexandra (Moscow, 2014)
I went to the clinic to resurface a scar on my arm after a car accident. The scar is about 5 cm on the inner surface of the arm. I couldn't wear short sleeves in the summer as it looked terrible. For a long time I didn’t dare to start removing it, but a friend advised me to do laser resurfacing. Now after three procedures the scar is practically invisible. She refused anesthesia for the operation herself. It was unpleasant, but not terrible. But then everything passed quickly. After three weeks the wound healed. I recommend the surgeon Mitish E.V.
Valentina (Moscow, 2013)
About 10 years ago I burned my hand while repairing a car on a manifold, and then picked off the sore. So the scar on my hand remained for all these years, until I decided to finally remove it. I had a burn scar resurfaced with a laser at the Lama clinic with surgeon Elena Valerievna. I was very pleased with both the result and the clinic. The atmosphere is cozy, there are no queues, everything is by appointment. Convenient and inexpensive.
Leonid (Moscow, August 2013)
“After a difficult case of peritonitis, from which all the hospital doctors saved me, I was left with three huge scars all over my stomach, which I really wanted to get rid of. I searched for a clinic for a long time and accidentally found out about Lama. After conducting a consultation, Evgeniy Nikolaevich Burkun promised to help me and fulfilled his promise. A year after surgery, I can wear a swimsuit without embarrassment because my scars are practically invisible. I also want to thank the clinic staff, who take great care of the patients, and recommend Lama.
Alexandra (Moscow, 2020)
“Ten years ago, a terrible event happened: glass from a broken window left noticeable scars on my face. It was very scary to decide to have an operation - what if it gets even worse? So I suffered for so many years... Maybe I still would, if my friend had not literally led me by the hand to “Lama” to Nikeshin Akim Yosifovich. He is not just a wonderful person, but a great specialist, as is everyone else in this clinic. This is how I received a “new face” and help that I had never even dreamed of. Thanks everyone."
Alena (Balashikha, 2020)
I had an old burn on my leg the size of a 5 ruble coin. I decided to remove it before the summer season. I spent a long time choosing a method and decided to do laser resurfacing at the Lama clinic. Honestly, I'm very pleased. The clinic is very good, everything is clean. Friendly staff. The price list was exactly what it was. After two procedures, there was practically no trace left of the scar. It was done under local anesthesia. It didn’t hurt at all, and then it didn’t hurt very much. I recommend everyone not to hesitate, but to do laser surgery.
Victoria (Moscow, 2013)
In the office kitchen, I poured hot soup on my foot when I took it out of the microwave. The burn was 10 square centimeters. It didn’t heal for a long time, and then a scar remained on my leg. So she had it removed at the clinic. I had laser resurfacing of the scar under local anesthesia. It didn't hurt. The leg became straight, without bumps. It is still visible that the skin is a different color, but I hope that by summer everything will pass. I liked the clinic. The attitude of the staff and doctors is very good. There is a positive atmosphere in the clinic.
Kristina (Moscow, April 2014)
I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Evgeniy Nikolaevich Burkun! I contacted him about laser resurfacing of a scar on my leg. The doctor told me everything about the procedure and warned that in my case it would take several sessions for the scar to be completely invisible. In total, I had to do the polishing in three sessions, but each time it was short-lived and without any unpleasant sensations. Now I am completely satisfied with the result, there is normal smooth skin at the site of the large scar.
Svetlana (Moscow 2017)
A year ago I had surgery, which left a scar on my stomach. It was especially noticeable in the summer, when the rest of the skin was tanned. Before the summer season I had laser resurfacing of the scar. I am very pleased with the result. All marks were completely gone within a month after sanding. I hope that the skin will now tan evenly too. I recommend doing such procedures not in beauty salons, but in clinics. There are professionals on a completely different level, not just cosmetologists. I am very pleased with the llama.
Olga (Moscow, March 2014)
I was resurfacing a scar on my arm that was left after an accident when I had surgery. For two years I thought that it would resolve itself, but it didn’t happen. It brightened, but did not become smaller. The view was so-so. The surgeon removed it with a laser in one go. It wasn’t even worth waiting that long, but should have done it right away.
Alexander (Aprelevka, December 2013)
I had a scar on my cheek resurfaced after an injury at the clinic. In summer, the scar looked very unaesthetic and was very different in color from tanned skin. Three sandings were enough to leave almost no mark. Now I'm waiting for summer to see how different the area under the scar will be on tanned skin. The surgeon said that it would be practically invisible. The impression is great!
Sergey (Moscow Region, Naro-Fominsk, 2014)
Articles on the topic
Face resurfacing for scars
Beautiful, clean and healthy skin is the dream of not only women, but also representatives of the stronger half of humanity. But what should those whose skin has imperfections, such as scars, scars or acne spots, do? Modern cosmetology offers many options […]
