Laser Skin Resurfacing Houston

Laser skin resurfacing uses controlled high intensity light beams to vaporize and remove the upper layer of one’s skin. When the damaged, superficial skin is removed, it gives way for new skin to grow, which masks the face with a new layer of epidermis.

Ablation vs. Non-Ablation

Depending on a patient’s aesthetic goals, laser skin treatment can be more or less aggressive. The more aggressive treatment — an ablative procedure — wears away the epidermis more intensely to let new skin regeneration begin. Recovery with this technique may take up to 3 weeks. 

The lighter treatment, or non-ablative laser, does not remove any skin. It stimulates deeper layers of the skin to initiate an increased growth of collagen. With this treatment, there will be no downtime for the patient. 

Both techniques help the skin regenerate. As new layers of skin are developed, skin problems such as wrinkles, mild scars, and discoloration are minimized.

Technology Variations

There are two types of laser skin resurfacing: the CO2 and Erbium lasers. CO2 is the most popular type in this procedure. It is an ablative method which wounds the epidermis to give way for new skin growth and improve collagen development. The intensity of the laser beams with CO2 is high.

Erbium, on the other hand, is a more gentle procedure that only removes superficial skin layers so the recovery period is quicker. Depending on the patient’s skin condition and aesthetic goals, the doctor will recommend the laser that is more suitable for the patient to render better results.

Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure. Any pain during the procedure is managed with local anesthesia and/or sedatives to help the patient relax. The eyes will also be protected since lasers can be harmful to the patient’s vision. 

Laser skin resurfacing’s advanced technology allows accurate targeting of smaller areas so the surrounding skin is not affected. A session may take up to two hours depending on the patient’s skin conditions.

Following your procedure, Dr. Lapuerta will likely write you a pain reliever prescription, and your face may be bandaged. In the weeks following your procedure, the treated skin may appear red: this is because your epidermis has been peeled away. As it heals, crusting may be present. 

During your recovery, it is crucial for you to follow Dr. Lapuerta’s recommendations for skin care — this is to prevent any scarring. We recommend that patients use an extra pillow when sleeping to ease any discomfort, and wait a few days to resume normal activities.

The average price for laser resurfacing ranges from $1,000 to $2,500. The range depends on the type of laser used and the size of the treated area. Additional costs include medications, doctor and facility fees, or any additional treatments needed. Insurance companies rarely cover any treatment that is cosmetic in nature. If the total cost is more than expected, it may be worthwhile to check what financing options are available at your clinic — we are here to help!

Looking for laser skin resurfacing in Houston? You’ve come to the right place! At Look Younger, our own Dr. Leo Lapuerta has been performing plastic surgery for over 20 years, and is considered the best doctor for laser skin resurfacing in Houston, Katy, and Pearland. Book your consultation with us today to meet Dr. Lapuerta and speak about your unique needs.