Laser Skin Resurfacing in McLean, VA

Laser skin resurfacing with Sciton® HALO™ at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses pulsating beams of energy to exfoliate damaged surface skin one layer at a time. HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that delivers non-ablative and ablative wavelengths to the skin. This therapy is used to help reduce facial wrinkles, address pigmentation, soften acne scars, and more. Sometimes referred to as a laser peel, laser skin resurfacing is considered an ideal procedure for patients desiring softer, clearer, younger-looking skin. This treatment can be customized to address your unique dermal concerns and cosmetic goals by skilled plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi. Reach out to our office in McLean, VA, Washington, D.C., or Beverly Hills, CA to schedule a consultation with our team. We look forward to helping you achieve beautiful, healthy skin.

At Mesbahi Plastic Surgery, we understand that with age, the skin may become increasingly dry, flat, and lifeless. With laser skin resurfacing treatments, we can provide our McLean, VA individuals an opportunity at new skin with a treatment that provides multiple wonderful benefits:

• Minimized appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
• Reduction of pores and patchy skin surface
• Decreased visibility of scars and hyperpigmentation
• Increased confidence and self-esteem around your skin's appearance

Laser skin resurfacing is geared toward patients who are unsatisfied with their overall complexion. If you see sun damage, acne scars, age spots, wrinkles, pigmentation, or redness, a laser skin resurfacing treatment can help improve these cosmetic flaws. In addition, it is an ideal treatment for those who have a rough skin texture, scaly patches, or other dermal irregularities. This treatment isn't recommended if you have a skin infection or active acne. During your initial consultation, Dr. Mesbahi can perform a full skin assessment to determine if you are a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing.

A huge benefit of HALO is that it is safe and effective for all skin types and is typically more comfortable compared to other laser skin resurfacing systems. It incorporates an advanced cooling system that emits cold air across the treatment zone after every pass of the laser. In addition, innovative thermal control is built into HALO to adjust the power of each pulse according to the temperature of the patient's skin. Other features include precise speed tracking, sophisticated software to map treatment areas, and the ability to adjust the laser beam to the exact size and position needed for safe delivery. 

During the procedure, we'll have you sit comfortably in one of our private treatment rooms as your skin is cleansed and prepped for the procedure. The HALO handpiece will then be applied to the target areas to remove dead and damaged skin cells while also prompting new collagen production. The treatment usually only takes about 30 – 60 minutes to complete, depending on the number of areas being addressed. 

With advanced HALO technology, patients generally only need 1 – 2 treatments to achieve their desired results compared to traditional laser peels that require 3 – 4 treatments. In addition, patients can return to work within a few days and wear makeup after 24 hours. Other laser systems generally require more downtime. You may experience redness and mild discomfort after your session, but these symptoms will subside in 1 – 2 days and noticeable results are evident after a few weeks. 

All patients should reduce their UV exposure following their treatment and apply sun protection frequently. Since laser skin resurfacing targets dead skin cells to promote new healing growth, the dermis will naturally flake, crust, and peel off. It is crucial to avoid peeling off your own skin to prevent scarring and unwanted discomfort. After the natural peeling process is complete, your skin will look younger, smoother, and refreshed.

How much does laser skin resurfacing cost?
Laser resurfacing costs depend on the treatment type you get. In your initial consultation, Dr. Mesbahi will ask about your skin problems and goals before explaining the types of resurfacing treatments. Then, he will help you select your resurfacing method and talk to you about costs. Mesbahi Plastic Surgery regularly offers skin treatment specials and discounted packages, so ask about current specials in your consultation.

How can I help my skin recover after a resurfacing treatment?
Dr. Mesbahi or someone on his team will give you recommendations on how you can speed skin healing after a laser treatment. The number one rule is to not pick or peel flaking skin. This can lead to lasting damage like scars. You need to forgo all hair removal methods in the treatment area, which means no waxing, shaving, or depilatory creams. We can suggest a cream to help soothe and heal treated areas.

How often should I get laser resurfacing treatments?
Based on the laser resurfacing options you and Dr. Mesbahi select for your procedure, you might need to wait weeks or even months between appointments. Deeper treatments will provide longer-lasting results; however, they do require a longer recovery period. You should tell Dr. Mesbahi about how frequently you are willing to come back for treatments so he can consider this when suggesting a treatment plan during your initial consultation.

How do I prepare for a laser resurfacing treatment?

Before getting laser skin resurfacing, patients are asked to avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for several weeks before their appointment. Dr. Mesbahi may also recommend that you stop taking certain medications that increase your risk of bleeding. Arrive to your appointment with a clean face and free of makeup. Our goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable throughout your treatment.

How does laser resurfacing compare to over-the-counter creams?

While drugstore creams may claim to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, they are not as effective as laser resurfacing. Laser technology penetrates deeper into the skin to target specific problem areas and stimulate collagen production, resulting in noticeable and long-lasting results. Over-the-counter creams only provide temporary improvement.

Is laser resurfacing painful?

At Mesbahi Plastic Surgery, we use the latest technology in laser resurfacing to minimize discomfort. Our HALO system incorporates a cooling system and thermal control to ensure patient comfort throughout the process. Patients may experience mild stinging sensation during treatment, but it is generally well-tolerated by most people.

Laser skin resurfacing provides excellent results if you want to treat sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and other dermal concerns to attain a rejuvenated appearance. If you are considering a laser resurfacing treatment and want to learn more, call Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA, Washington, D.C., or Beverly Hills, CA to schedule a consult. This innovative therapy has helped countless men and women attain healthier, radiant-looking skin.