Laser Treatments

Erbium is the very latest advancement in laser resurfacing to remove wrinkles, lines and sun damage. It adds a new dimension to the CO2 laser as a resurfacing method.

How does laser resurfacing work?

Laser resurfacing works by scanning a beam of light which vaporsies a fine layer of skin, removing wrinkles, lines and sun damage. The laser seals as it goes so there is little bleeding. As the new outer layer of skin grows, the body's natural healing mechanisms stimulate new collagen formation to replace the removed layer. The result is a smoother, healthier looking skin with a natural, youthful glow.

The advantages of Erbium Laser

The Erbium laser has significantly more depth control than CO2 which enables the doctor to perform a gentler more precise procedure with less trauma to the skin. This means less heat injury and, as a result, less redness and quicker healing time for the patient.

What can it be used for?

Erbium can be used for anything from a light resurfacing to counteract the early signs of ageing to the treatment of moderate to deep wrinkling, lines and sun damage. Whereas CO2 laser is inappropriate for necks, arms and hands, Erbium can be very beneficial in rejuvenating these areas.

How long does it take to recover?

In the case of CO2 laser resurfacing the skin heals in about one to two weeks. After healing the young skin is red and sensitive. Erbium laser resurfacing creates much less redness. The amount of redness depends on the depth of the resurfacing and healing time can be as short as only a few days for a light resurfacing.

Anaesthetic

Deeper treatments require sedation and local anaesthetic. Light treatments need only anaesthetic cream or no anaesthetic at all.

Duration

Two hours for full face.

Aftercare

As with all laser resurfacing, it is wise to cover up and wear a hat and sunscreen for the short to medium term.

Costs

Costs vary from $2,000.00 for a light laser peel and partial face resurfacing to $4,620.00 for full face treatment.

Risks

Essentially they are the same as for CO2 but with a lower order of magnitude. Because the laser is so precise and predictable, complications are uncommon. Infections can occur in rare cases. The appropriate medications are given at the time of procedure to offset the risk of cold sores. Laser resurfacing should only be performed by a doctor specifically trained in the technique. It is important to check your doctor's experience.