Is Laser Resurfacing painful?

Laser Resurfacing can be painful. This is why Dr. Cohn may numb the skin with local anesthetics. You may also receive a sedative to help you relax. If you are opting for extensive resurfacing, or if you’re having other cosmetic procedures simultaneously, Dr. Cohn may use a general anesthetic. Afterward, he will provide painkillers to keep you comfortable. In preparation, your face will be thoroughly cleaned and you might be given eye protection.

How many appointments will I need?

If you’re undergoing nonablative laser treatment or fractional Er: YAG laser resurfacing, you’ll likely need 1 to 3 treatments scheduled over weeks or months to get the results you’re looking for. While the effects of laser resurfacing can last for many years, the normal aging process means that wrinkles and expression lines will reoccur. You may repeat laser resurfacing as necessary.

How long until I see results?

After ablative laser resurfacing, your skin might stay inflamed for up to several months. But once the treatment area begins to heal, you’ll notice a difference in your skin quality and appearance. The effects can last for years. Results after non-ablative laser resurfacing tend to be gradual and progressive. You’re more likely to notice improvements in skin texture and pigment than in wrinkles. Some people who have laser resurfacing may see an immediate difference in the treated skin. That will continue to improve for up to a year. After laser resurfacing, always use sun protection. As you age, you’ll continue to get lines by squinting and smiling. New sun damage also can reverse your results. Every day, use a moisturizer and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Can I combine Laser Resurfacing with other procedures?

Yes, you can, but it is important to discuss your choices with Dr. Cohn, as there may be some procedures he advises against combining due to your skin issues. Some of the popular treatments our patients combine with Laser Resurfacing in Long Island include Dermal Fillers or BOTOX & Wrinkle Relaxers , to give your face a completely refreshed and youthful look.

What are the risks associated with Laser Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing can cause side effects. Side effects are milder and less likely with nonablative approaches than with ablative laser resurfacing. Redness, swelling, itching, and pain. Acne. Infection. Changes in skin color. Scarring. Dr. Cohn will talk about the risks of Laser Resurfacing during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Laser Resurfacing

In Long Island

What is Laser Resurfacing?
Who are the best candidates?
What are the benefits?
What’s the first steps?
What to expect?
Laser Resurfacing recovery
What’s the cost?
Laser Resurfacing FAQ’s

Introduction

Laser Resurfacing

As our skin ages, numerous conditions cannot be treated or fixed with diet and exercise alone, or by using topical creams. Laser Resurfacing is used to treat a variety of skin conditions by removing thin layers of skin with minimal heat damage to the surrounding structures. This procedure can treat sun damage, wrinkles, scars, warts, birthmarks, and other skin conditions.

Dr. Cohn routinely sees Laser Resurfacing patients from all over Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, and even from Manhattan. His boutique office is located in Smithtown, New York, making it a convenient destination for any Laser Resurfacing patients on the North Shore.

young woman looking into the sun with great skin laser resurfacing | Cohn Plastic Surgery Long Island

The Basics

What is Laser Resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a laser to improve the skin’s appearance or treat minor facial flaws. It can be done through two methods:

Ablative laser. This type of laser removes the thin outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heats the underlying skin (dermis), which stimulates the growth of collagen — a protein that improves skin firmness and texture. As the epidermis heals and regrows, the treated area appears smoother and tighter. Types of ablative therapy include a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, an erbium laser, and combination systems.
Nonablative laser or light source. This approach also stimulates collagen growth. It’s a less aggressive approach than an ablative laser and has a shorter recovery time. But the results are less noticeable. Types include pulsed-dye laser, erbium (Er: YAG), and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.

Both methods can be delivered with a fractional laser, which leaves microscopic columns of untreated tissue throughout the treatment area. Fractional lasers were developed to shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of side effects.

Who are the best candidates for the Laser Resurfacing procedure?

You may be a good candidate for Laser Resurfacing in Long Island if you have the following:

Wrinkles
Photodamage
Scars
Warts
Birthmarks
Rhinophyma (enlarged oil glands on the nose)

It is important to note that you may not be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing if you have:

Active acne
Very dark skin
Deep wrinkles
Excessive or sagging skin

Patients with darker skin tones have a greater risk of healing with darker pigmentation (hyperpigmentation). This may be minimized by the use of a bleaching agent after laser skin resurfacing as well.

What are the benefits of Laser Resurfacing?

Laser Resurfacing in Long Island can treat the following:

Fine lines or wrinkles around or under your eyes, forehead, or mouth
Scars from acne or chickenpox
Non-responsive skin after a facelift
Aged or sun-damaged skin
Liver spots
Improve your complexion if you have yellowish or grayish skin tones
Warts
Birthmarks such as linear epidermal nevi
Enlarged oil glands on the nose

It is important to note that Laser resurfacing can’t eliminate excessive or sagging skin.

First Steps

What’s the first step?

image of a steeple | Cohn Plastic Surgery Long Island

The first step to getting Laser Resurfacing in Long Island is to book a consultation with Dr. Cohn. Our patient coordinators are ready to help you and get you started on your journey. By scheduling a consultation, you will get to meet Dr. Cohn, learn more about what a Laser Resurfacing treatment involves, and decide whether this is the right procedure for you.

Prior to the day of treatment, Dr. Cohn will advise you to stay out of the sun and possibly utilize some skin treatments before getting Laser Resurfacing, to prepare your skin for the procedure.

What to expect on the day of a Laser Resurfacing treatment

On the day of your treatment, Dr. Cohn and his team will begin by administering a numbing agent on your skin and treatment areas. For extensive resurfacing, such as treatment to your whole face, you might be sedated.

Once the skin is numb, Dr. Cohn will begin using the laser. During ablative laser resurfacing, an intense beam of light energy (laser) is directed at your skin. The laser beam destroys the outer layer of skin (epidermis). At the same time, the laser heats the underlying skin (dermis), which stimulates collagen production over time, resulting in better skin tone and texture. Ablative laser resurfacing typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated. This approach usually needs only one treatment.

If you’re undergoing nonablative laser treatment or fractional Er: YAG laser resurfacing, you’ll likely need 1 to 3 treatments scheduled over weeks or months to get the results you’re looking for.

Laser Resurfacing recovery

After ablative laser resurfacing, the treated skin will be raw, swollen, and itchy. Dr. Cohn will apply a thick ointment to the treated skin and might cover the area with an airtight and watertight dressing. You may take a pain reliever and use ice packs. New skin usually covers the area in one or two weeks and full recovery takes at least a month.

During this time do not use products that may irritate your face, such as cosmetics. And avoid situations that increase your risk of infection, such as public whirlpools. Always use sun protection following laser resurfacing.

After non-ablative laser resurfacing, recovery time is minimal. Your skin might be swollen or inflamed for a few hours. Use ice packs as needed. Typically, you can resume your usual activities and skin routine immediately.

Laser Resurfacing Cost

How much does Laser Resurfacing cost in Long Island, NY?

The cost of Laser Resurfacing in Long Island can vary based on the following factors:

Amount of skin surface area being treated
The type of issue being treated
The time needed to treat the skin issues

During your consultation, Dr. Cohn will assess your goals and needs, and let you know the price you can expect to pay based on the treatment plan he creates for you.

Patient chair inside a plastic surgery office | Cohn Plastic Surgery Long Island

Rediscover your true self

Why choose Cohn Plastic Surgery?

When you choose Cohn Plastic Surgery, you are placing your aesthetic needs and goals in the expert hand of Dr. Jason Cohn. If it’s life-changing confidence with the looks to match, you have come to the right place. Dr. Jason Cohn is a Long Island native and AAFPRS fellowship-trained facial plastic reconstructive surgeon based in Smithtown, NY. Dr. Cohn enjoys connecting with his patients in a meaningful, approachable demeanor. He aims to assist you in achieving your aesthetic goals with natural, high-quality results. Call us today to learn how Dr. Cohn can restore your confidence in your body, as you put your best foot forward in the world.

Contact

Schedule a consultation

Contact us today to get started on your road to transformation! Our friendly, highly-trained staff will take care of your scheduling needs and set up a consultation that could change your life. We offer in-person and virtual appointments to accommodate your needs best. Dr. Cohn is ready to help you achieve your best look and give you the confidence you need. Call us today at 631-759-9173

Laser Resurfacing FAQ’S

Laser Resurfacing can be painful. This is why Dr. Cohn may numb the skin with local anesthetics. You may also receive a sedative to help you relax. If you are opting for extensive resurfacing, or if you’re having other cosmetic procedures simultaneously, Dr. Cohn may use a general anesthetic. Afterward, he will provide painkillers to keep you comfortable. In preparation, your face will be thoroughly cleaned and you might be given eye protection.
If you’re undergoing nonablative laser treatment or fractional Er: YAG laser resurfacing, you’ll likely need 1 to 3 treatments scheduled over weeks or months to get the results you’re looking for. While the effects of laser resurfacing can last for many years, the normal aging process means that wrinkles and expression lines will reoccur. You may repeat laser resurfacing as necessary.
After ablative laser resurfacing, your skin might stay inflamed for up to several months. But once the treatment area begins to heal, you’ll notice a difference in your skin quality and appearance. The effects can last for years.

Results after non-ablative laser resurfacing tend to be gradual and progressive. You’re more likely to notice improvements in skin texture and pigment than in wrinkles. Some people who have laser resurfacing may see an immediate difference in the treated skin. That will continue to improve for up to a year.

After laser resurfacing, always use sun protection. As you age, you’ll continue to get lines by squinting and smiling. New sun damage also can reverse your results. Every day, use a moisturizer and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Yes, you can, but it is important to discuss your choices with Dr. Cohn, as there may be some procedures he advises against combining due to your skin issues.

Some of the popular treatments our patients combine with Laser Resurfacing in Long Island include Dermal Fillers or BOTOX & Wrinkle Relaxers, to give your face a completely refreshed and youthful look.
Laser resurfacing can cause side effects. Side effects are milder and less likely with nonablative approaches than with ablative laser resurfacing.
- Redness, swelling, itching, and pain.
- Acne.
- Infection.
- Changes in skin color.
- Scarring.
Dr. Cohn will talk about the risks of Laser Resurfacing during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.