How Does Laser Skin Tightening Work?
By Neel Kanase | Published on October 6, 2010 | 0 Comments
Laser skin tightening is one of many cosmetic treatment options available at today’s medical spas. What is skin tightening and is it right for you? According to Neel Kanase, MD of Corpus Christi medical spa Corpus Christi Laser Clinic, skin tightening is one of the most popular laser treatments available, and for a number of good reasons.
What Is It?
Laser skin tightening, says Dr. Kanase, is a procedure that can help to get rid of wrinkles and sagging skin. It does so, he says, by selectively targeting collagen beneath the skin’s surface. Collagen is the skin’s natural connective tissue. As we age, our skin begins to produce less collagen. The result is skin that is less elastic and more prone to sagging and wrinkling. “Collagen is our skin’s ‘cementing’ agent,” says Dr. Kanase. “A loss of collagen in conjunction with gravity causes the face to sag downward as we get older.”
In skin tightening, a special type of laser is used to target collagen only, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. When the laser comes into contact with the collagen, it causes minor tissue damage. This damage triggers the skin’s natural healing process, encouraging the production of more collagen. “This process actually allows your body to rebuild lost collagen through its own healing mechanisms,” says Dr. Kanase. “The result is firmer, tighter skin and an improvement in the appearance of wrinkles.”
Who Is It For?
Skin tightening, says Dr. Kanase, is most beneficial for patients bothered by sagging or wrinkled skin. A non-invasive alternative to a surgical facelift or injectables, skin tightening appeals to patients who are looking for great results without any downtime. Because the results are achieved via your skin’s own healing process, there is no need to worry about an “unnatural” appearance after the procedure. Instead, your skin will simply return to a more youthful state, with more resilience and elasticity.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The procedure itself, says Dr. Kanase, is very quick and relatively painless. “The procedure usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes,” he says. The patient normally feels a heat sensation on the face while the procedure is being done. After the procedure, there is zero downtime – you’re free to resume your normal activities immediately. “You essentially just walk in and walk out,” says Dr. Kanase. “No need to interrupt your busy schedule.”
What Happens After the Procedure?
After you undergo laser skin tightening, you can expect to begin to see an improvement in your skin’s appearance and tightness right away. Your skin may be a bit red or warm to the touch, but these symptoms will usually go away within a few hours following the procedure. Because results are dependent on the skin’s continued production of extra collagen, the appearance of your skin actually improves over the course of several months; and the benefits of the procedure can last up to two years.
“The only precaution that needs to be taken after the procedure,” Dr. Kanase says, “is avoiding excessive sun exposure.” Because the treated skin will be more sensitive to the effects of the sun, he says, sunscreen is a must. “Your technician will talk to you about caring for your skin after your treatment. As long as you protect your skin from the sun, you can expect beautiful results.”
*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.