Overview
A Nd:YAG laser is used by our board-certified plastic surgeons at Prima Center for Plastic Surgery in Duluth for deep dermal skin tightening. Laser Skin Tightening is a common treatment used to help contour the body and tighten the skin after it has lost its elasticity due to natural factors such aging, pregnancy, or weight loss. Our surgeons will work with you to discuss the pros and cons of undergoing laser skin tightening treatment, as well as provide you with a professional recommendation in regards to your treatment options. Contact our Atlanta area office to discover if this procedure will help you to achieve your cosmetic goals. We will provide a personalized treatment plan along with a cost estimate for laser skin tightening.
Reviews
Procedure Process
Laser skin tightening is a state of the art procedure that combines the use of a laser to heat the skin from below while measuring the skin temperature using a thermal camera. The end point is to heat the skin to a temperature between 42°C to 43°C (107°F to 109°F). This deep dermal heating causes a contraction of existing collagen and a stimulation of new collagen and elastic formation. A Nd:YAG laser is used to create the necessary heat. This is an outpatient procedure that may be performed either under local anesthesia or general anesthesia depending on the number of areas treated and the overall size of the area. Typical zones treated include the face and lower neck, upper arms, inner thighs, upper back (bra rolls) and lower abdomen. It can be done in our office operating room. The laser probe is 2 mm in diameter and very small incisions are used to access each area. Pain and discomfort is limited compared to other laser treatments. In some cases, several treatments may be required for optimal results.
What to Expect
The changes in the treated areas can take 8 to 10 weeks to be fully evident but most patients begin to notice a change in 2 to 3 weeks. The actual results will be gradual as collagen multiplies, enhancing the skin structure. There may be slight redness or swelling after treatment which subsides after a few hours. The patient will experience no downtime, and will be able to go back to normal activities in a few days. It is important to set realistic expectations with this approach as it cannot produce the same results as a surgical procedure.
Laser Skin Tightening FAQs
Who Should Get It?
This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The results will be gradual, but the quality of improvement is significant as the healing starts within the skin. It is the perfect treatment for those who still have a good skin tone but begin to see signs of skin laxity. Most commonly, those who are aged 30 to 40 seek this treatment to slow down aging effects.
Long-Term Results?
Optimal results become more noticeable after a few months. The treatment is safe to be repeated especially after 1 year as the positive effects subside.
Multiple Treatments?
The number of sessions depends on the patient’s skin condition and aesthetic goals. Most patients who still have a good skin tone can have significant results with a single treatment. For those who show more symptoms of skin aging, several treatments may be needed to produce the wanted results.