For a long time, plastic surgery was the only way to rejuvenate. But this method has many contraindications, and is also associated with certain health risks, so not all of them can be resolved with the help of surgical intervention.
Fortunately, modern aesthetic medicine offers many anti-aging treatments that are not too dangerous. One viable alternative to plastic surgery is a laser face lift.
What is it?
Laser removal is the modern, non-surgical way to combat age-related skin changes. This technique is aimed at improving skin quality. It stimulates regenerative processes (cell renewal), improves blood circulation in the laser-exposed area, which helps smooth wrinkles.
During the procedure, natural collagen is actively produced, which provides tissue elasticity. This is especially important for areas with delicate skin, where a different method of rejuvenation is unacceptable.
The difference between the laser lift with the plastic method and other facial lift is that it does not involve surgery. The operation is performed using special equipment for laser therapy. Light rays penetrate the skin and act on the weakened and dead cells.
Laser face lift is available for women and men between the ages of 18 and 70. Most often, the need for this procedure appears after 30 years, when the first signs of skin aging appear.
Typically, cosmetologists prescribe laser removal courses, because one session is not enough. Achieving the maximum effect is possible 3 months after the last procedure was carried out. With proper skin care, the rejuvenating effect can last about three years.
Indication for the procedure
Laser removal will help solve a large number of problems. This procedure is indicated for patients with the following problems:
- sagging eyelid skin;
- expressions and wrinkles of age;
- dark circles and bags under the eyes;
- pronounced nasolabial folds;
- acne scars;
- small scar;
- enlarged pores;
- unhealthy skin;
- the presence of age spots;
- vascular tissue;
- sagging double chin;
- neck wrinkles.
Contraindicated
Laser removal is contraindicated if any of the following factors are present:
- acute inflammatory and infectious diseases;
- any oncological disease;
- chronic disease;
- various blood diseases;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- HIV infection;
- diabetes mellitus;
- mental disorders;
- diseases associated with the thyroid gland;
- epilepsy;
- hepatitis;
- any skin disease;
- bad blood clotting.
Skin resurfacing type
Currently, in cosmetic practice, laser lifting is done using two technologies: ablative and non-ablative. They are different because each uses a different type of laser.
Ablative
Ablative is the most widespread laser lifting technology.The impact of the beam beam is directed to the outer layer of the epidermis, which is always in contact with the environment.
Under the action of the laser, the dead skin layer gradually evaporates. The ablative facial skin lift is traumatic, but the results are guaranteed.
Non-ablative
This technique involves a laser beam that penetrates deep into the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis. The top layer of skin remains intact. This laser lifting method helps to enhance the color of the tissues, resulting in a lifting of the face.
Unlike ablative tightening, which is also called "burn", non-ablative techniques are considered gentler. Non-ablative lifting methods are allowed for use on sensitive skin areas - the eyelids and around the eyes.
This technology is not very popular, as many cosmetologists doubt its effectiveness.
Preparing the procedure
Before the laser removal procedure, it is very important to visit a beautician who will assess the general condition of the skin and make a conclusion about the feasibility of surgery.To reduce the risk of side effects, you must pass the following tests:
- General analysis of blood and urine;
- chest x-ray;
- syphilis test;
- HIV test;
- cardiogram of the heart.
Doctors must also be aware of all illnesses suffered by patients.
About two weeks before the session, there is a simple rule to follow:
- refuses to visit the baths, sauna and solarium, and also does not bask in the sun;
- do not consume alcoholic beverages;
- take antiviral drugs in one course (only as prescribed by the cosmetologist).
It is not recommended to consume coffee and energy drinks on the day of the session.
How was the facelift done?
The technique for performing a laser lift is relatively simple:
- The patient wears a medical cap or bandage over his head to remove his hair and lies on the sofa.
- Next, the doctor prepares the skin: it removes the makeup residue and oily secretions.
- Then a cooling gel is applied to the face. For patients with very sensitive skin, anesthetic cream is used.
- The procedure is painful. For this reason, this procedure is often performed under local or general anesthesia.
- The patient's eyes must be protected during the session, so they wear sunglasses. After completing the preparatory steps, you can start the laser lifting process.
- The doctor runs a special device with a handpiece (maniple) over the patient's face, paying attention to problem areas and working with them carefully.
Different tools are used depending on the procedure used. It differs in the technology of exposure and the depth of penetration of the light beam.
There are two types of lasers: cold and hot. For a facelift, a carbon dioxide, erbium or diode laser can be used.
- Carbon dioxide lasers are the most powerful. Helps remove wrinkles and scars.
- Erbium is effective against the early signs of aging. Has a mild effect on the skin surface.
- Deep skin rejuvenation is performed using a diode laser. The light beam can penetrate 5-50 mm inward.
Ablative rejuvenation is performed with a carbon dioxide laser. Under the influence of heat, the dead cells gradually evaporate, leaving behind a new, young skin.
erbium and diode lasers are used for non-ablative facelift.The action of the light beam is directed at the inner layers of the skin. The collagen production process is triggered in the connective tissue, contributing to skin tightening and rejuvenation.
After the procedure, the beautician will treat the patient's face with an antiseptic, then apply a soothing cream or mask.
Before and after photos
Then on the photo you can see the results before and after the procedure.
Rehabilitation
The duration of the rehabilitation period depends on the technology of the procedure.The stronger the impact, the longer it will take for the skin to heal completely.
During rehabilitation, skin redness, swelling and hypersensitivity is common. These are the permissible consequences of laser removal and are nothing to worry about. After a few days, the symptoms will go away on their own.
After laser removal, the skin needs gentle care. Patients must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations and adhere to the following rules:
- do not visit swimming pools, saunas, baths, and beaches for two to three months;
- make sure to use sunscreen when going out;
- do not use decorative cosmetics until the skin has completely healed;
- try to touch your face with your hands as little as possible;
- exclude facial massage;
- breaks bad habits;
- following a healthy diet;
- Drink lots of fluids.
With proper care and adherence to the beautician's instructions, firming results can be seen after seven days. The skin becomes firmer and healthier, and wrinkles and scars will disappear. Oval faces will have an even shape and clear outlines. Changes are not usually seen immediately after the procedure.
Complications
Laser facelift is considered a safe rejuvenation method. During the procedure, there is no direct skin contact with the equipment, so the risk of transmission of various diseases is minimized. Complications can arise in two cases: an insufficient level of professionalism of the beautician and the patient's non-compliance with the rules of care.
The most dangerous side effects are:
- herpes;
- increases skin pigmentation;
- whiteheads;
- scar formation (if the crust is torn).