La Jolla Skin Rejuvenation Specialist

Resurfacing procedures can be safely performed around the eyes to soften the “crows feet”. Fine wrinkles around the mouth “smokers lines” can be dramatically improved after skin resurfacing. Dyschromias “age spots” can be lightened and the texture of skin throughout the face and neck can all be improved with the right resurfacing technique.

PHILOSOPHY: How Is Dr. Kolstad Different? Ways of improving the quality and texture of skin are too many to count. A good plastic surgeon will be able to describe the different techniques available to you, and recommend which will work best for your skin. More importantly, a good plastic surgeon will also tell you when your concerns are best treated with a procedure instead of promising the same results can be achieved with a laser. Dr. Kolstad is proficient with using chemical peels, CO2 lasers, fractionated lasers, and dermabrasion procedures. His expertise in multiple techniques allows him to recognize which is the best for your skin. Many of our patients come in requesting a laser treatment to rejuvenate their faces. Sometimes it is not a laser, but Botox or injectable fillers that would be best address their concerns. Sometimes a surgical procedure is the only option to achieve their goals. There is no “one laser fits all” philosophy here. Dr. Kolstad will work with you to help determine what is the best option to meet your expectations.

Resurfacing of the Skin

What is a Chemical Peel?

Application of an acidic solution peels the skin’s superficial layers. During the healing process, smoother, invigorated skin cells are created. Chemical peels can be used alone or in combination with other skin resurfacing procedures. Peels are used to treat damaged skin, superficial skin color changes “age spots”, and signs of premature aging such as the fine lines around the eyes.

What is Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is a fine sanding technique used to treat deep scars and wrinkles, raised scar tissue, and some severe cases of cystic acne. Top layers of skin are "lightly sanded" with a rotating brush or a diamond-coated wheel.

Laser Resurfacing

Collimated light is used to vaporize top layers of the skin to lessen the appearance of wrinkles, scars, birthmarks or to generally resurface facial skin. Laser resurfacing can be used alone or in combination with other skin resurfacing techniques.

About Skin Resurfacing

Resurfacing procedures can be performed in the office or in the operating room under anesthesia. The specific area and the amount of facial skin being resurfaced determine which setting and which technique would best accomplish your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t know which resurfacing technique is best for me, how do I decide?

During your consultation, Dr. Kolstad will describe the various techniques available. After listening to you describe your goals, your lifestyle requirements, and the areas you would like rejuvenated, he will help guide you to the procedure that best meets your needs.

Is resurfacing safe to use around the eyes?

Laser resurfacing and chemical peels are both safe to use around the eyes. They are used to soften the fine creases “crows feet” and rejuvenate the skin.

Can I go home after surgery?

You will have a soft dressing covering your face, neck and cheeks. You may go home after surgery as long as you have someone to observe you for a 24 hour period.

How long does it take to recover?

Most people take about 10-14 days off of work to recover. The skin may be rose colored for a period of several weeks, but this is easily camouflaged with make-up.

Is there pain after surgery?

Many of our patients do not complain of significant discomfort, with the majority using only Tylenol as needed. Prescription pain medicine is made available to you and we recommend that you have it available in case it is needed.

Skin Resurfacing Procedure Before and After Surgery Instructions