Laser Resurfacing Conveniently located to serve Pittsburgh, Bridgeville, and Mt Lebanon
Seeking a proven method to address the signs of aging, sun damage, or persistent acne scarring? Patients near Bridgeville, PA, and communities like Pittsburgh and Mt. Lebanon can find advanced options at Radiance Plastic Surgery. We offer advanced laser resurfacing, including powerful CO₂ laser resurfacing, to help you achieve a clearer, smoother complexion.
What Is Laser Resurfacing?
CO₂ laser resurfacing is a precise technique that uses controlled thermal energy to remove damaged outer layers of skin, promoting the body’s natural healing processes and stimulating new collagen production.
At Radiance Plastic Surgery, Dr. Lori Cherup uses the powerful UltraPulse laser system. The UltraPulse laser is characterized by its unique high-peak-power, short-duration pulses, which enable deep, controlled tissue remodeling to minimize wrinkles, scars, and various discolorations. She performs it under sedation.
The UltraPulse laser system effectively addresses textural issues by targeting the “hills and valleys” of the skin. This makes it an excellent laser wrinkle treatment that improves visible acne scars and reduces discoloration from sun damage.
Who Is a Good Candidate for CO₂ Laser Resurfacing?
Ideal candidates are typically those seeking to improve moderate to deep facial wrinkles, acne scars, or significant signs of sun damage. If you are considering this treatment, please have realistic expectations about the recovery process and commit to rigorous sun protection afterward.
During your consultation, Dr. Cherup will assess your skin type and medical history to ensure this is the most suitable choice, potentially discussing complementary options such as cosmetic dermal fillers.
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What Happens During the Procedure
When you choose Dr. Cherup for your laser skin resurfacing, your comfort is a priority. The procedure is performed under sedation to ensure you do not experience discomfort throughout the treatment.
Once you are comfortable, Dr. Cherup will guide the UltraPulse laser over the targeted areas of your skin. The laser delivers rapid, high-peak-power pulses to vaporize the damaged outer layer of the epidermal skin. This controlled process removes old skin and stimulates the deep tissue below, preparing the skin for its comprehensive rejuvenation process.
What to Expect During Recovery
The initial phase of your laser resurfacing recovery involves the formation of a new epithelial surface, which typically occurs within 7-9 days. Your complexion will begin to feel softer and smoother soon after, although some redness may still be present. This post-treatment redness typically begins to fade within two to three months, although it may persist for longer in some individuals. Strenuous activities, such as intense exercise, should be avoided for approximately two weeks.
Postoperative care
Protecting new skin
Once the new epithelial surface (new skin) has formed, you may discontinue the medicated ointments. Because this new layer of skin is thin and tender, it is essential to protect the area from injury and sun exposure. When outdoors, even briefly, apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 or higher.
Position
Sleep on your back with your head elevated on a few pillows for the first few days if your face appears swollen. A pillow under your knees and arms may make you more comfortable.
Drinking and eating
If the skin around your mouth is swollen or tight, drink from a cup or a spoon. DO NOT USE STRAWS.
Bathing and showering
You should wash the treated area twice daily and remove all ointments and creams. Pat the area dry and reapply the medicated ointment prescribed.
Activities
Avoid strenuous exercise for two weeks to avoid irritating the skin.
Treatment of the skin surface
A protective membrane or antibiotic ointment will be placed on the treated areas at the end of surgery. Either method will protect the surface and provide relief from discomfort.
Itching and dryness of the treated area
These are common symptoms that occur after the skin has initially healed. Flakiness and dry crusting will gradually clear. Once the “new skin” becomes healed, you will be instructed to use Bio-Images mild protection cream. Ask Dr. Cherup before using commercial moisturizers.
Skin protection
Plan to use sunscreen regularly for at least six months whenever you are outside. A wide-brimmed hat is also helpful.
Erythema or redness
Virtually all redness should disappear in 2-3 months. A small degree of redness may last a month or two, or longer in some cases.
Routine skin care
You may use your usual skin products once the new surface has healed. You may have a facial in about a month.
Benefits of CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
Patients often choose this procedure for these reasons.
Significant wrinkle reduction
This treatment dramatically improves the appearance of both fine lines and deep wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and forehead, resulting in smoother skin across the facial zones. The process effectively reverses the visible effects of aging without the need for surgery.
Acne scar improvement
The laser energy deeply remodels underlying tissue to smooth visible acne scars and correct pitted or irregular skin texture. This targeted action helps restore a more uniform and refined surface to the skin.
Enhanced skin texture and firmness
By promoting robust new collagen growth beneath the surface, CO₂ laser resurfacing yields firmer, smoother, and noticeably more consistent skin quality over time. The increased collagen provides a foundational support that improves the skin’s overall elasticity and plumpness.
Correction of pigment issues
It works to remove damaged outer layers, effectively reducing age spots, sun spots, and other discolorations that result from sun damage laser exposure, leading to a more uniform complexion. This effectively diminishes the accumulated effects of long-term sun exposure and environmental damage.
Long-lasting results
Because the laser resurfacing stimulates the body’s natural renewal process, the improvements in texture and tightness are generally sustained for several years. Following Dr. Cherup’s recommended skin care regimen helps ensure the durability of your results.
CO₂ laser risks
All surgical and aesthetic treatments carry potential risks, which Dr. Cherup will fully discuss during your consultation. The specialized CO₂ laser resurfacing procedure is performed with precision to manage these occurrences:
- Scarring – Scarring is rare due to the precise depth control of the UltraPulse CO₂ laser.
- Skin discoloration – Slight changes in skin color are possible, but the risk is minimized by the laser and Dr. Cherup’s technique of treating entire facial areas.
- Prolonged redness – Treated areas will be red/pink, typically fading over 2-6 months.
- Wound symptoms and swelling – Expect temporary crusting and swelling, usually subsiding within 1-3 weeks.
- Infection risk (herpes) – Patients with a history of cold sores are treated prophylactically to prevent activation.
- Incomplete removal – Deep wrinkles may require more than one session to ensure safe and effective results.
- Milia – Small white cysts (milia) may temporarily appear but are easily resolved in the office.
- Eye protection – Protective eyewear is required and provided to prevent accidental laser exposure.
Price for Laser Resurfacing in Bridgeville
The cost for laser resurfacing varies based on the size of the treatment area and the depth required to address your specific concerns, such as deep acne scar, laser marks, or pronounced laser wrinkle treatment.
To help make your CO₂ laser resurfacing procedure accessible, we also offer financing options.
Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Cherup at Radiance Plastic Surgery in Bridgeville, PA. She will assess your needs, discuss your personalized treatment plan, and provide an accurate pricing estimate.
Why Patients Choose UltraPulse at Radiance Plastic Surgery
When considering laser skin resurfacing in the Bridgeville area, choosing a qualified, board-certified surgeon is essential. At Radiance Plastic Surgery, Dr. Lori Cherup personally oversees all treatments, backed by a strong medical and ethical conscience.
For deeper treatments, we use the UltraPulse CO₂ laser system, which delivers short, high-energy pulses for precise and controlled tissue remodeling. This advanced technology enables the effective treatment of deeper skin layers while minimizing unnecessary impact on surrounding tissue.
For patient comfort and safety, all deep CO₂ laser resurfacing procedures are performed by Dr. Cherup under sedation. This attentive approach is one reason patients from Pittsburgh, Bridgeville, and Mt. Lebanon turn to Radiance Plastic Surgery for facial rejuvenation options, whether they’re exploring laser treatments or procedures such as a facelift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your Laser Resurfacing Consultation in Bridgeville
Ready to explore CO₂ laser resurfacing in Bridgeville, PA? Consult with expert plastic surgeon Dr. Lori Cherup. You may also be interested in non-surgical options like Botox or other skin treatments. Contact Radiance Plastic Surgery today by calling (412) 220-8181 or submitting an online scheduling form to schedule your appointment.
