Over the years, the skin of the face and neck loosens. Gradually, we begin to see wrinkling around the eyelids, on the forehead and around the mouth. Many faces become etched with numerous fine wrinkles. These changes are the result of the aging process, heredity, and gravity. They are accelerated by skin abuse, overexposure to the sun, alcohol, smoking, and poor nutrition. Fortunately, light in the form of a laser beam can now minimize many of these problems.

The Beauty of the LASER
New advances in LASER technology allow us to remove layers of aging sun-damaged skin without affecting deeper layers of the regenerating skin. Once unattractive skin layers are vaporized by the LASER, the body can recreate the smoothier, healthier skin of youth. Dr.Pribitkin can treat not only crows feet and "cigarette lines", but also scars, blemishes, and even the entire face.

Initial Evaluation
Please speak candidly with us about your concerns. We will listen carefully and let you know exactly what we can and can't help with. After a thorough evaluation of your face by Dr.Pribitkin, surgery can be agreed upon and planned.

How a LASER PEEL is Done
Laser Peel surgery is performed here in the office using the Sharplan Silktouch Carbon Dioxide Laser. Pre-operative medications taken at home relieve tension and prevent infection. The skin is thoroughly cleansed, and an anesthetic cream is applied and permitted to work for one half hour. Local anesthetics to numb the treated area are often administered. Dr. Pribitkin tests a few spots on the skin with the laser and then carefully removes the necessary layers of aging, sun-damaged skin with the laser. You may feel some stinging during the actual laser peel, much like that experienced during electrolysis. Afterwards, the skin is again cleansed, and a white, mildly adherent dressing is applied. You should easily be able to care for yourself and drive yourself home. At home, follow Dr. Pribitkin's directions carefully. Usually ice is applied to the treated areas. Rarely is any pain reliever other than Tylenol necessary.

Healing and Recovery
You must invest time and effort into rejuvenating your facial appearance. We advise you to plan a week free to care for yourself after the peel. During this week, you must cleanse your face carefully and apply Vaseline or a mild adhesive dressing. After one week, you may again use moisturizers and cosmetics. A sun-block must be used for at least six months following the treatment.

Results to Expect
Initially, treated areas will appear pink and swollen. The swelling fades rapidly, but some pinkness may remain for several weeks after the peel. This is easily covered with cosmetics. As the skin rejuvenates, wrinkles progressively disappear until, at 3 - 6 months, a more rested and youthful appearance is achieved. This appearance, if properly cared for, should last many, many years.

Risks
Risks are minimal. Some patients do experience redness after surgery for up to several months. Others may find that their treated skin is a little lighter or darker than their surrounding skin. Patients with especially deep wrinkles may need to undergo more than one peel. Dr. Pribitkin will be pleased to address any concerns you may have regarding the procedure.