What is Laser Skin Tightening?
Laser skin tightening is a minimally invasive, non-surgical process that uses laser light to cause the skin to contract and tighten. There is no downtime, making it a popular procedure.* Additional skin tightening occurs over the next few months, but optimal results usually require two to three treatments about a month apart. Laser skin tightening has been approved from the FDA to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin. Laser skin tightening is not as dramatic as a face lift, but the advantage is that surgical treatment is painful, has greater medical risks, is more expensive and requires a long recovery time. Laser skin tightening can be done in our comfortable clinic in 20-60 minutes per treatment site. It is safe and effective for restoring a more youthful appearance to skin all over the body.
How does Laser Skin Tightening Work?
The laser heats collagen under the skin’s surface, regenerating firmer skin. It also encourages the growth of new collagen in the treated areas, and promotes the absorption of more collagen from the surrounding, untreated areas. You will notice smoother, softer skin and a more youthful appearance. The effects continue to improve over the next few months, as the skin’s natural stores of collagen are gradually replenished.
What can I Expect During a Laser Skin Tightening Session?
All make-up, oils and sunscreen must be removed from the patient’s skin. Protective eyewear will be provided. Because of the non-ablative nature of laser skin tightening, no anesthetic should be needed, although patients who have a particularly low tolerance for discomfort may take over-the-counter pain medication prior to treatment.
The laser is “painted” in quick pulses over the skin surface. The laser will be swept over the same area approximately three times for optimal results. You will feel a warm heating like sitting in the sun, or mild-stinging, comparable to a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
You will be able to return immediately to work, exercise and other regular activities afterwards. Side effects are minimal, and include warm sensation on the skin, redness, or minor swelling. Makeup can be applied right after your treatment to cover up any temporary redness before you leave the clinic. Side effects usually resolve in the next few hours to days. In rare cases, you may experience bruising or blistering. Sunscreen will be applied before you leave and it is recommended that you use sunscreen daily thereafter.
Am I A Candidate for Skin Tightening?
Laser skin tightening is appropriate for men and women of all skin types and tones who want to achieve results without painful surgery or long recovery times. Ideal candidates are in good health. Patients with extreme laxity may consider combining laser treatment with surgical correction of wrinkles or laser skin ablation. If you are prone to herpes breakouts or cold sore outbreaks, you should consult your physician or one of our physicians about taking medication to prevent an outbreak before and after your procedure. Pregnant women should not receive laser skin tightening treatments. If you scar easily and develop keloids, you should schedule a consultation to see if laser skin tightening is right for you. If you are on acne medications, you may need to discontinue them for a period of time before your laser treatment. You should not have laser treatment while on Accutane (Isotretinoin), or for 6 months after you are done with this medication, because of increased skin sensitivity.
What Areas of the Face and Body Can I Treat?
Laser skin tightening has been proven effective for skin tightening on all areas of the body: face, neck, chest, abdomen, arms, legs, knees, buttocks and breasts. Some patients with minor to moderate skin laxity may opt for laser skin tightening instead of more invasive procedures such as liposuction or “mini tummy tuck” surgery.
What is the Difference Between Laser Skin Tightening and Laser Skin Ablative Resurfacing?
Laser skin tightening often produces less immediate and dramatic changes than laser skin resurfacing, but it also poses far fewer risks, discomfort and downtime. Laser skin resurfacing removes the outer layer of the skin to promote the growth of new, healthier skin. Although it is more effective, the risk is unfavorable changes in pigmentation and scarring. Unlike having surgery, laser skin tightening requires no recovery and does not stretch the skin: it causes skin to tighten on its own.
How Long Do Results Last?
Many patients may notice changes in tone and condition of skin shortly after the treatment. However, because the procedure is designed to stimulate the natural growth of collagen, your optimal results may take up to a few months to be visible. New collagen growth takes 3-6 months after the initial treatment.
For maximal results, three to six treatments may be recommended, 3-4 weeks apart. After the initial series, you may opt for yearly or twice-a-year “touch-up” sessions.
How Much Does Laser Skin Tightening Cost?
Click here for treatment costs or call Skin Deep Medical Aesthetics at (802) 879-3742.
*Individual results may vary.