Acne laser surgery is no longer just a fantasy. For the millions of men and women who are bothered by severe acne, it has become a very real option for restoring their complexion and improving their flagging self-esteem.
For generations, acne has been the scourge of teenagers. We all experienced that errant pimple which invariably showed up the day of the big dance. But in recent years, acne has become more of a problem for adults as well. Natural oils in the skin, the effects of stress, and reactions to diet and lifestyle choices can all produce uncomfortable and unsightly facial blemishes. The cosmetology industry has been striving to address the problem, offering everything from crèmes and ointments to acne surgery.
Those attempts have resulted in a variety of surgical options for removing the most stubborn of acne blemishes. Currently, there are three main types of laser surgery for acne scars: Ablative, Non-ablative and Fraxel. Ablative surgery uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove pimples one layer at a time. By resurfacing the skin, this procedure leaves a smooth, blemish free layer which fits in seamlessly with surrounding skin. It can also be used for reducing the effects of scars or repairing areas of discoloration.
Non-ablative acne laser surgery literally works from the inside out, destroying blemishes and also killing any bacteria which may be a contributing cause of the acne. This treatment, gentler and less destructive than ablative, also adds a topical medication to the skin to further reduce blemishes.
Fraxel laser treatments involve only destroying certain areas of the skin, leaving the healthy surrounding skin untouched. Much less invasive than the other two types of acne surgery, fraxel or fractional laser surgery is a relatively new alternative but one which holds a lot of promise. Aside from pinpointing the area to be destroyed, fraxel surgery also reduces the healing process as it doesn't require a cooling down period afterward.
While the latest developments in surgical treatments are cause for optimism, acne laser surgery is not something which should be undertaken lightly. As the name suggests, it is very much a surgical procedure and not just a quick cosmetic fix. Before considering laser surgery for acne scars, it is imperative that you consult your doctor. Like any medical procedure or treatment, not every patient will respond the same and you need to consider the possible ramifications in your individual case. Generally, laser surgery is only recommended in the most severe cases when other, more standard, treatments have proven unsuccessful.
Before undergoing acne surgery, you'll want to take all of the potential drawbacks into consideration. Once again, this is a serious surgical procedure and as such it should only be performed by a licensed physician. Though often considered a cosmetic procedure, you should never rely on a cosmetologist to perform it. You'll also want to consider the cost, which can sometimes be prohibitive, especially since many insurance companies don't consider laser surgery to be a necessary medical expense. Make sure that your insurance company will cover the cost of your treatment or be prepared to pay out of pocket.
As with most medical procedures, www.skinsite.com/info_acne_surgery.htm acne laser surgery should never be considered a quick fix. Laser surgery will address the surface issue, acne scarring, but in order to have a really effective cure you have to treat the underlying causes of the condition as well. In order to fully address your acne problem, you need to adjust your diet, control stress levels and you may also need some hormonal treatment as well. Laser surgery can make you look and feel better, but it will only be truly effective as part of an overall treatment plan to prevent any further acne breakouts.
Acne can be a frustrating and embarrassing fact of life, but now more than ever there is hope. If severe and persistent acne is a problem for you, consult your doctor today and find out what options exist for treatment. Before you know it, acne will be a thing of the past and you'll be able to truly put your best face forward.
Scott LeRoy has been researching and evaluating dermatological applications and treatments for many years. He is a regular contributor to www.skinsite.com/index_services_dermatology.htm Dermatology Services, a section of www.skinsite.com www.skinsite.com dedicated to various skin treatments and procedures.
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