No one can escape the aging process — so visible in the skin — but Brian D. Cohen, MD, a talented plastic surgeon, knows several ways to forestall it. One of the most effective non-surgical treatments for aging skin is laser skin tightening.
Because the normal sagging and wrinkling of the skin are the first and most discernible giveaways of age, laser skin tightening treatments provide a pathway to rejuvenation. And no one administers these treatments with greater artistry and care than Dr. Cohen.
Many supposedly skin treatments touted through the media and over the internet do not revitalize as promised. That’s why patients who come to Dr. Cohen’s offices in Great Neck or Manhattan are relieved to be dealing with an impeccably credentialed plastic surgeon with a deserved reputation for personal concern and successful outcomes.
Benefits of Laser Skin Tightening
For those seeking more youthful, smooth, and glowing skin without a surgical procedure, laser skin tightening provides many advantages, including that it:
- Is nonsurgical and requires little downtime
- Is safe, medically administered, & performed in a sterile environment
- Is painless, often described as pleasant and relaxing
- Is suitable for the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs, and stomach
- Is effective on delicate skin
- Produces natural results that can continue for 6 months
- Is suitable for men and women of all skin types
- Is FDA approved
On average, treatments last between 30-60 minutes, depending on how many areas are being treated.
Causes of Skin Laxity
As we grow older, our skin loses its firmness, becoming loose and sagging, especially on the face and neck, resulting in eye bags, a weakened jawline, and jowls. This occurs because as we age the collagen and elastin break down more rapidly and are no longer replenished as quickly as they once were. Gravity also takes its toll. Genetics, weight fluctuations, and lifestyle habits (e.g. smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and excessive sun exposure may also contribute to the problem).
How Laser Skin Tightening Works to Rejuvenate Your Skin
There are several types of laser skin tightening treatments, all delivered by administering short, concentrated pulsating beams of light energy. Your skin has a number of layers, and depending upon which laser skin-tightening treatment is used, we will be targeting one or more layers.
During your initial meeting, Dr. Cohen will discuss which method is appropriate in your particular case. In most cases, Dr. Cohen will administer 4-6 laser skin tightening treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart.
Types of Skin Tightening Laser Treatments
Ablative Laser
Known as “wounding” since it removes the thin outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heats the underlying layer (dermis), this procedure stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. As the epidermis heals and regrows, the treated area takes on the desired smoother, tighter appearance.
Types of ablative treatments include Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, Erbium laser, Pulsed Dye, and Nd: Yag systems. Ablative lasers not only remove fine to moderate wrinkles but even skin tone and remove acne or chickenpox scars.
Nonablative Laser
Known as a “nonwounding,” this laser treatment stimulates collagen growth in the dermis while leaving the epidermis intact. Nonablative laser resurfacing is less invasive and requires less recovery time than ablative laser resurfacing. Though it works well to improve skin tone and texture, it is somewhat less effective than an ablative laser.
Laser resurfacing
Laser resurfacing works on the top layers of the skin as an effective means of removing wrinkles, blemishes, large pores, and scarring. Designed to precisely control only as many layers of tissue as necessary, it retains the integrity of the skin, causing no damage to healthy tissue.
What to Expect from Your Laser Skin Tightening
There will be variations depending on which type of laser skin tightening you and Dr. Cohen decide is best in your situation. In any case, you can expect the procedure to be smooth and to look as if you have a bad sunburn for a few hours to a few days after treatment.
Before Laser Skin Tightening
It is important to follow our directions to properly prepare for treatment by:
- Coming into our office with completely clean skin, free of lotions, oils, creams, or fragrances of any kind
- Removing any excessive hair in the treatment area by shaving prior to treatment
- Avoiding sun exposure or UV tanning beds for at least 2 weeks before treatment and using a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above on a daily basis
- Avoiding BOTOX® injections, dermal fillers, or chemical peels in the treatment area for at least 2 weeks before laser skin tightening
- Notify us if you start any new medications, such as antibiotics, before your appointment
During Procedure
Laser skin tightening is a simple procedure. Your skin will be cleaned and numbed, and all your untreated areas will be clothed. Both you and the medical team will wear protective eyewear. The treatment is not painful and we will speak reassuringly to you during the process.
After Treatment
As noted, it is normal to experience redness and swelling in the treatment area following the procedure and your skin will typically feel sunburned or razor-burned for a while. After treatment you should:
- Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone or other creams to alleviate redness and irritation
- Avoid excessive heat or sun exposure and use sunscreen daily
- Avoid workouts for a short period as advised by Dr. Cohen
- Avoid other skin procedures for a few weeks
Most patients report noticeable improvement immediately, followed by more dramatic results weeks later. As soon as the treatment is over, you will be able to return to work and to regular activities (not involving exertion). You will also be able to apply makeup. New collagen growth will continue tightening your skin for as long as 6 months.
Contact Long Island’s Brian D. Cohen for Superior Laser Skin Tightening
When it comes to improving the appearance of your skin, Dr. Cohen has the experience and artistry to give you a more youthful complexion with less sagging and fewer lines, wrinkles, and folds. You will be amazed to see how many years younger you will appear to yourself and others after treatment. Get in touch with us soon to see if laser skin tightening is right for you.