Laser facelifts, more commonly called "laser resurfacing", uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove layers of skin. The laser can be concentrated on specific trouble areas such as those around the eyes and the mouth or it can be done across the entire face. You can have this done in less than an hour. This is better than having a chemical peel because it is much more precise, the healing process is shorter and there is usually no bleeding.

Even though it is popularly called laser "facelift", it does not really lift your face. The lift that you get from resurfacing is in the healthy, new skin that is revealed after treatment. Fine lines disappear and wrinkles are much less noticeable.

Keep These Thoughts in Mind:

If you have a dark complexion, this treatment is not for you. Darker skin will have pigmentation problems if this type of treatment is done. It is recommended for those with fair skin that is healthy and not oily.

This does not take away wrinkles, lift sagging skin or correct areas of fat deposits under the skin.

After laser resurfacing, you will have tenderness and redness for a while.

Facial scarring can occur if the procedure is not done properly. This may damage your skin permanently.

Another kind of laser treatment that can be used is the new laser technology that heats up the collagen under your skin. Doing this tightens up your skin naturally. This kind of laser procedure is done quickly without time needed for recovery.

Both types of laser facelifts can be used along with a conventional lift - the skin is lifted with surgery, the laser resurfacing minimizes wrinkles, and the skin is tightened by heating collagen.