The Cost of Laser Skin Resurfacing

The national average of 2007 for cost of laser skin resurfacing was $2,484 (Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons). This fee includes only the physician's costs, not include related expenses and this estimate is only for one treatment session, but multiple sessions may be needed. You can arrive at a better total estimate after your doctor has evaluated your condition and goals, and created a treatment plan.

The cost of laser skin resurfacing generally includes certain ointments, dressings, and creams. Some additional cost will be charge for the antibiotic medications and other prescription pills that doctor will give you. General anesthesia in a hospital costs a lot more than local anesthesia in a doctor's office or outpatient surgery center. The treatment cost also does not cover the camouflage makeup that some practices offer for use after surgery. The extent of treatment makes a cost difference. For example, if deeper layers of the skin must be penetrated to remove the imperfection, the use of general anesthesia and a hospital may be required.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Results And Benefits

Laser skin resurfacing has gained popularity recently because of its advantages over alternative approaches that may cause discomfort, bleeding, and bruising, all of which mean a longer recovery time. One of the most recent innovations in anti-aging remedies has been laser skin resurfacing, which improves the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation, primarily around the eyes and mouth. It can also be used to treat large areas of the face. The result of more youthful-looking skin means laser skin resurfacing can be psychologically rejuvenating as well.

Laser skin resurfacing recovery and results vary depending upon the type of laser that is being used and the size of the area you wish to have treated. The most invasive treatments may produce enormous improvements, but may require an extended recovery time of multiple weeks. A gentler laser skin rejuvenation treatment may reduce the appearance of some imperfections and may require little or no downtime.

New collagen production and tighter, smoother skin, as well as a diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin coloration, sun damage, scars, and other facial imperfections are what you can get from Laser Skin Resurfacing.

Consult Your Laser Treatment With a Qualified Doctor

Consult a plastic surgeon and a dermatologist who have extensive experience using a laser. Only experienced and knowledgeable doctors will know which laser is most appropriate for each condition and will have received appropriate training on the device. For example, acne scars may be best treated with a CO2 laser, while other lasers may be preferred for other types of scars.

Using a qualified doctor will increase your odds of success and reduce the risk of complications. I strongly recommend that you consider choosing a doctor who is board certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Here are some tips to consider when consulting a doctor :

• Ask about credentials, training, and the number of times the procedure has been performed in the practice. Ask the doctor to show you his certificate and photo before and after treatment.
• Which equipment will be used, where the procedure will be performed, and the extent of the procedure.

Ask these questions bellow to your doctor before decide to do the treatment :

1. How should I prepare my skin for the treatment?
2. Where is the procedure performed? How long will the procedure take?
3. What kind of anesthesia is used?
4. How much does the procedure cost?
5. Is there any complication before? How many of them? And what is the cause?
6. Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again?
7. Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have the procedure?
8. What should I expect after care treatment, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, medication, bathing, and level of activity?
9. Who will be assisting during the procedure? What are their qualifications?
10. Do you have privileges to perform laser resurfacing with a CO2 laser at an accredited hospital?

Be sure to :

• Tell your doctor about any allergies you have and medications, herbal supplements or natural supplements that you are taking, especially Acutane before the surgery. This medication affects the skin’s ability to heal after laser resurfacing.
• Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke. Smoking can lead to complications and poor healing.
• Tell your doctor if you have been exposed to significant amounts of radiation, have a history of unusual or poor scarring, or cold sores– like herpes or shingles or serious medical conditions
• Tell your doctor if you have had previous facial surgery.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.