Does Laser Skin Tightening Hurt?
By Neel Kanase | Published on October 7, 2010 | 0 Comments
An exciting alternative to the surgical facelift, laser skin tightening offers firmer, tighter skin and lasting results. But does laser skin tightening hurt? Not according to Neel Kanase, MD of Albuquerque medical spa Albuquerque Laser Clinic. In fact, laser skin tightening is one of the most popular laser treatments available today thanks to minimal discomfort, excellent results and zero downtime.
The Benefits
“People love laser skin tightening because it offers a non-invasive alternative to facelifts and injectables,” says Dr. Kanase. Designed to counteract the effects of gravity on aging skin, skin tightening provides a lifting, tightening effect once achievable only through surgical means. Cosmetic surgery, however, involves weeks of recovery and downtime and a major financial investment. Not only is laser skin tightening more affordable, it’s also much faster, requires no recovery time, and allows you to return to your normal activities right away. “You essentially walk in and walk out,” Dr. Kanase says, “with no real disruption to your busy schedule.”
Skin tightening also offers long-lasting, natural-looking results. “Many people worry about having an unnatural appearance after cosmetic procedures,” says Dr. Kanase. “This isn’t going to happen with laser skin tightening. Instead, the face’s original, youthful contours are restored.” The treatment, he explains, doesn’t rely on chemical agents or stretching the skin, but rather stimulates the body’s natural production of collagen to achieve the desired results.
Your Appointment
At your skin tightening appointment, a special laser will be used to selectively target the collagen tissue within your skin. This laser causes minor damage to the collagen while leaving the skin’s surface unharmed. The skin responds to the damage caused by the laser by producing more collagen. The heating effect produced by the laser also results in an immediate and noticeable improvement in the skin’s tightness. According to Dr. Kanase, your appointment should last between 15 and 30 minutes.
Your Comfort
“One of the primary benefits of laser skin tightening,” says Dr. Kanase, “is that it offers dramatic results with very little discomfort.” When choosing a medical spa for your skin tightening procedure, he says, don’t hesitate to ask about what you should expect to feel during the procedure and how the technician will ensure your comfort.
Most people do not experience pain during or after laser skin tightening, Dr. Kanase says. “You usually experience a heat sensation,” he explains. To minimize any discomfort associated with the heating, his staff uses techniques to actively cool the surface of the skin (to the individual patient’s comfort level) while the procedure is being performed.
After your treatment, some redness may be present, but it should disappear within a few hours. It is unlikely that you’ll experience any discomfort after the procedure, but if you do, it can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. “There are many good reasons skin tightening is so popular,” says Dr. Kanase, “and comfort is a big one.”
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.