Laser Skin Resurfacing (Sciton® HALO™ Laser) in Colorado Springs, CO

Skin resurfacing with the Sciton HALO laser at the Institute of Plastic Surgery in Colorado Springs, CO is a minimally invasive aesthetic treatment that utilizes pulsating beams of energy to remove damaged skin cells layer by layer. The procedure is performed for reducing facial wrinkles and lines and for diminishing skin irregularities, such as pigmentation, acne scars, and other flaws. Sometimes referred to as a laser peel, fractional skin resurfacing is considered an effective treatment for people who want clearer, softer, younger-looking skin. Based on the needs of the patient's skin, the treatment can be customized for the best results. There is little recovery time associated with most laser skin resurfacing treatments. Any questions or concerns may be reviewed with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons during your initial consultation.

Our practice makes use of the state-of-the-art Sciton HALO laser platform. This is the first hybrid fraction laser in the world, which allows it to utilize both ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to the same treatment area. Put simply, it increases the comfort of the patient while still significantly shortening the recovery process. The technology has proven to provide beautiful, long-lasting results after just 1 – 2 treatments. Additionally, the downtime traditionally associated with laser treatments is significantly reduced, allowing patients to wear makeup again after 24 hours and return to work within 2 – 3 days. Within a few weeks of treatment with the Sciton HALO, most patients report remarkable improvements to their skin.

You have many factors to consider when choosing which laser peel is best for you. Laser skin resurfacing is geared toward patients who are unsatisfied with their overall complexion. If you see sun-damaged skin, age spots, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, or redness issues, this procedure may help correct these imperfections. Also, it is effective if you have rough texture, scaly patches, or other skin surface problems. A laser peel isn't suggested for anyone who has very dark skin tones or active acne outbreaks. In addition, it's important to understand that there is a recovery period needed after laser therapy. Certain patients, based on their skin condition, may require as much as 2 – 3 weeks to recover.

If you are scheduled for a more intense or deeper laser peel, you may be given a topical retinoid for 2 – 3 weeks before your laser treatment. The retinoid helps prep the skin for maximum results. Medication may be given prior to the procedure to help reduce any pain so you can relax throughout your appointment. If your complexion only needs mild improvement, local anesthesia may be applied to numb treated areas of the face. For the whole complexion or deeper laser procedures, a type of sedation may be necessary. Throughout the procedure, you can relax in our special treatment chair while the Sciton HALO laser handpiece passes over your skin, directly targeting the designated areas for improvement. You may sense heat and then cool air from the system's built-in cooling device. The laser energy is designed to destroy damaged skin cells while also promoting new collagen growth.

For light peels, an ointment will be smoothed over the treated skin and you can go home for your recovery. The treated skin may appear pink, and there may be some swelling and irritation. These symptoms subside in a few days, and the skin peeling process will occur over a 3 – 5-day period. For those who are undergoing a deeper laser peel, your downtime will take longer. The treatment sections may be protected with dressings, and the irritation, swelling, and burning sensation may be intensified. Pain medication can be prescribed to help reduce these symptoms. The downtime for a more intense peel may last several weeks. Every patient needs to limit their UV exposure following their laser treatment and use sun protection regularly. Regardless of the intensity of the peel, the treated skin will naturally scab, flake, and peel off. It's important to avoid accelerating the recovery process to prevent scarring and to shield your face from sun exposure. After the peeling is finished, the treated skin should feel smoother while also appearing rejuvenated, younger, and clearer.

Laser skin resurfacing with the Sciton HALO laser offers outstanding results if you are looking to obtain a more youthful, blemish-free appearance. If you are considering a laser peel and want to hear more information about the benefits and about other nonsurgical options we perform, we encourage you to contact the Institute of Plastic Surgery in Colorado Springs, CO today to make your appointment with one of our skilled surgeons.