The Contour MicroLaserPeel is more aggressive than microdermabrasion or a chemical micro-peel because a laser penetrates deeper into the epidermis and basically vaporizes more layers of the skin. For example, microdermabrasion usually removes only the top layer (10 microns) of the skin. A MicroLaserPeel can be configured to remove 20 to 50 microns so it extends much deeper into the epidermis. It is especially effective for treating wrinkles, scars, keratoses, blotchiness or age spots (pigmentation changes), as well as improving skin texture.
A MicroLaserPeel performed with our Sciton erbium laser is precisely controlled by a computer so it safely reaches only the depth of peel you and your surgeon have decided is best for you. The depth of a MicroLaserPeel can be adjusted to fit the length of recovery period desired, but also depends on the skin problem you want to correct.
An anesthetic cream is first applied about 30 minutes before the procedure to minimize discomfort, and the MicroLaserPeel itself takes 30 to 45 minutes. Even with the anesthetic, the peel is not painless, though patients find it tolerable. A healing period of 3 to 4 days should be anticipated, during which time you must continually apply a moisturizing ointment to speed healing and protect the new layer of skin that emerges beneath the peeling layers.
The skin looks and feels like a bad sunburn immediately after treatment, and peeling begins on the second day. By day 3, the redness begins to fade. By the third or fourth day, makeup can be applied to disguise the redness that remains. Within a week after the MicroLaserPeel, your skin will look smoother and tighter than before, its texture will be improved, and its pigmentation will be more even.
Most patients schedule a MicroLaserPeel on a Thursday or Friday so they are ready to return to work on a Monday. Typically, the procedure is repeated 2 to 4 times, spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. Your surgeon will give you instructions about how to care for your “new” skin after the treatment.
