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From Dr. Gross
Laser Skin Resurfacing is a procedure to remove excess wrinkles, crow's feet, lip lines, pigmentation spots or sun damage skin. Laser Resurfacing can dramatically reduce or remove wrinkles, making you look years younger. However, it will not remove excess skin, jowls, puffy lower eyelids or neck wattles.
The Coherent UltraPulse 5000c laser systems are often used to treat photo damage, for skin resurfacing, hair restoration and other endoscopic or incisional methods of medical procedures. The 5000c has a pattern generated which is computerized and contributes speed and flexibility to the cosmetic lasers.
The Ultrapulse system's capability to quickly deliver up to 300 millijoules in one pulse allows for powerful single-pulse ablation. This type of high-energy pulse makes the Ultrapulse system the coldest and cleanest CO2 surgical laser system available today. When the pulse power is combined with the independent adjustment of pulse energy and operating speed, the clinician is given precise control of the laser.
The pulsed energy acts like a blend control, allowing the clinician to select the volume of tissue ablation. The average power determines the rate of pulse arrival and controls the overall rate of tissue removal, so tissue effect can be customized at any speed, achieving superior control with reduced potential for charring.
"Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon." ™
Commonly Asked Questions
How long does the process take?
1 hour
What type of anesthesia do you use?
Oral sedation with local anesthesia, or general anesthesia.
What are the risks and side effects?
Infection, prolonged redness, lightening of skin tone, and scarring (rare), Facial swelling, weeping of the skin, redness, drainage, and an "ugly phase" for 7 to 10 days.
How long is the recovery time?
One to 2 weeks, variable. Back to work in 2 weeks. Avoid the sun for 3 to 6 months.
How long do the results last?
Permanent, although aging process will continue.
How does laser resurfacing work?
The laser produces heat, which vaporizes skin cells 1 layer at a time. In this way, Dr. Gross can "paint away" unwanted layers of skin, one layer at a time. This degree of control allows for very precise treatment, which Dr. Gross will tailor to your needs.
What type of laser is used?
Dr. Gross uses the Coherent Ultra-Pulse CO2 Laser System. This is one of the most widely used lasers and Dr. Gross has a tremendous volume of experience with this procedure and with this state of the art machine. He also uses an Erbium laser, which is indicated for younger patients with lesser degrees of wrinkling.
Does it hurt?
During the procedure, patients are under sedation or general anesthesia. This is necessary since the laser treatment is painful. Following surgery, however, the lasered skin has a feel of a sunburn for approximately 12 hours. Oral pain medications are typically needed for the first few days only.
How long does it last?
Results from laser skin resurfacing are permanent, however, the aging process will continue. Most patients typically look 5 to 10 years younger following this treatment and the skin has a new healthy glow with a smoother texture.
Are there other Lasers for red spots, brown spots and tattoos?
Yes. The Pulsed Dye Laser is used for removing Port Wine Stains or red spots. The Q switched YAG is used for tattoo removal- multiple sessions needed, and the YAG laser is used for removal of freckles, brown spots, and sun spots.
What are the added benefits I receive with the Ultrapulse 5000C CO2 Laser?
Another benefit to this laser system is that it increases your body's collagen so that skin cells can grow and rejuvenate when old or damaged tissue is taken away.
Patient Testimonials
To say that I am pleased seems so inadequate for the way I feel about the surgery, the pre-op treatment, the post op-treatment and the entire experience was extremely superb. You are without a doubt, and with no exception, the very best at what you do.
Warmest Regards,
Nancy
I just wanted to thank all of you, for your kindness during this time of my surgery. In all my years dealing with fine Doctors, I have never had a doctor call my home to check on my progress. It is nice to know there is still a sweet and compassionate doctor who really does care. I guess that's why you're voted the number one surgeon in Orlando Magazine.
Thanks Again For All Your Kindness,
Pat
