Laser Skin Resurfacing
Conveniently located to serve Dallas and Plano, TX
There are essentially two types of laser categories: non-ablative (no-downtime) and ablative (removal of old skin and a week or so of downtime). Dr. Lam offers both services. His non-ablative laser is akin to an IPL or “photofacial”. However, since his is truly a laser (actually two lasers: a KTP and Nd:YAG) it works far better at removing red blotches, rosacea, and also at tightening and reducing pores. There is almost no downtime in the majority of patients but in those with extensive rosacea there can be some mild swelling for a day or so. Dr. Lam uses two ablative lasers: the Cortex (fractional carbon dioxide and erbium) and the 2940 nm (a non-fractional erbium). He finds the Cortex to be ideal for lighter problems of skin aging; whereas he uses the 2940 nm primarily for deeper wrinkle problems, especially those around the mouth area.
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Key Points:
- The non-ablative KTP is a truly “no downtime” procedure that can be done as a lunchtime treatment. Dr. Lam’s staff performs this procedure rather than Dr. Lam. Because it can take up to 45 minutes to perform, this procedure needs to be scheduled in advance. It can help with rosacea, redness, uneven color, pores, and mild skin texture problems. It is best advised to have this procedure performed every 6 weeks to 3 months if possible, or before a special event for which you want to look good.
- The Cortex is a very good laser to treat mild to moderate skin damage like fine to moderate lines, sun damage, and uneven color and texture. The Cortex is a dual laser employing both fractional carbon dioxide and non-fractional erbium. Fractional laser is defined as a laser that skips areas of the skin using a computer program to permit improved healing. The 2940 nm is more powerful to correct the same problems as the Cortex and works exceptionally better at managing wrinkles and texture problems around the mouth. It uses a more powerful non-fractionated ablative erbium laser and also possesses a lighter fractional erbium head as well. Dr. Lam mainly uses the non-fractionated head. Because the resurfacing does not go as deep as the Cortex, it does not need to be fractionated and works better to improve textural issues and wrinkles of the skin. For both lasers, the downtime is typically several days to a week where there is obvious peeling and some swelling making it hard to go to work or be in the social spotlight. Even though some mild color changes may persist for even several weeks, Dr. Lam uses Oxygenetix makeup that can actually be used immediately after an ablative laser session without risk. In fact, Oxygenetix, which is color matched to your skin type, can actually facilitate more rapid healing of your skin, and at the same time cover any mild, remaining discoloration.
FAQs
What are my restrictions following a 2940 nm or Cortex treatment?
Are there times when Dr. Lam would consider me a poor candidate for a 2940 nm or Cortex laser treatment?
How do I decide whether I should have a 2940 nm or a Cortex laser treatment?
Your Laser Skin Resurfacing will be performed by Dr. Lam's surgery center located in Plano, TX.
I highly recommend Dr. Lam. He is a perfectionist and took the time to listen to my concerns and explain the procedure in detail. His staff has always been warm and welcoming from the day of my consultation, throughout the procedure and follow up appointments. I am very happy with the results of my procedure! Thank you Dr. Lam! – See more Testimonials here.
Comparison Chart between Lasers
Deciding which laser would be better for you may be confusing. Dr. Lam has put this chart together to explain the differences between the lasers he uses to help guide you in your decision-making. In every case, however, a consultation with Dr. Lam will help determine which laser would best suit your needs based on budget, recovery time, intended benefits, and communicated limitations. For all three lasers, Dr. Lam can treat a skin type from Fitzpatrick I (very fair skin) all the way to a Fitzpatrick IV (medium Hispanic and Asian skin) but cannot treat Fitzpatrick V (Indian or light-skinned African-American) or Fitzpatrick VI (Central African, very dark skin).
Gemini Laser | Cortex | 2940 nm Contour TRL | |
Type of Laser | Dual KTP/Nd:YAG | Fractional CO2/Erbium | Non-Fractionated Erbium |
Category | Non-Ablative (does not remove any outer skin layer) | Fractional Ablative (partially removes outer skin layer, making small tiny holes) | Fully Ablative (fully removes outer skin layer) |
Type of Anesthesia | None (can drive home) | Topical + Injectable Anesthesia + Oral Sedation but can use IV Sedation upon request (Should Uber/taxi home or have companion to drive you home) | Topical + Injectable Anesthesia + Oral Sedation but can use IV Sedation upon request (Should Uber/taxi home or have companion to drive you home) |
Recovery | None or only mild swelling for a day or so (typically, no downtime) | A few days of swelling and peeling up to a week (Oxygenetix makeup can cover any residual redness typically by day 5 to 6) | A few days of swelling and peeling up to a week (Oxygenetix makeup can cover any residual redness typically by day 5 to 6) |
Cost | $350 (Partial Face) | $500 (Full Face) | $1,500 (Partial Face) | $2,500 (Full Face) | $2,500 (Partial Face) | $4,000 (Full Face) |
Frequency | Every 2 to 4 months (as needed) | Once (repeat only for added benefit or when more sun damage arises) | Once (repeat only for added benefit or when more sun damage arises) |
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