Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing

Turning back the hands of time!

As we age fine lines start appearing around our eyes and lips. Then, as the collagen in our skin relaxes and diminishes, deeper wrinkles start to appear. In addition, skin pigmentation and age spots also occur. In the past, microdermabrasion and chemical peels were the treatment of choice. However, more advanced laser technologies like the Erbium and CO2 Lasers are currently the most commonly used modalities for facial resurfacing. In fact the Erbium laser is the latest and most advanced laser technology to treat sun-damaged skin and signs of aging. It is by far the safest, the most accurate and the least painful technique to restore smoother, softer and more youthful-appearing skin. In addition, while removing undesired layers of skin, this laser stimulates the production of collagen, creating tightening and smoothing of the skin.

What does the Erbium Laser Resurfacing do?

Reduces wrinkles
Clears skin blemishes
Improves sun damage
Treats acne and improves acne scars

Why is the Erbium laser different from the other lasers?

Notice patient's face 1 week after resurfacing. Patient's right side was treated with the carbon dioxide laser and the left side was treated with the erbium:YAG laser.

Archives of Dermatology 1999;135:391-397.

Erbium laser resurfacing is a safe outpatient procedure
Done with topical anesthesia (for medium depth resurfacing)
On occasion could be used on the neck, chest, and hands
Less unwanted side effects and complications comparing with other lasers
Erbium laser is safe for all skin types
Faster healing with Erbium laser means less redness, swelling, and bruising

Which type of resurfacing is best for you?

During the office consultation, the doctor will go over different types of laser resurfacing based on many factors including but not limited to your skin type, the patient preference, and desired outcome.

Light and medium laser resurfacing are the most common modalities for resurfacing, however, other resurfacing modalities are available at ALVC and will be discussed during the office consultation.

With the Light Erbium Resurfacing technique a thin layer of your damaged skin will be removed and collagen remodeling is stimulated with minimal down time. The face will be somewhat pink for 24-36 hours and you may resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

The Medium Erbium Resurfacing gives the best clinical outcome at an acceptable down time of 5-7 days, which is a much faster recovery time compared with the CO2 lasers. In this technique the laser will gently remove the damaged epithelial skin layers including sun and aging spots as well as other pigmented lesions. As a result, facial wrinkles are dramatically reduced and acne scars are softened.