Fully Ablative Laser Resurfacing and Rejuvenation

Treatment overview

Fully ablative laser treatment, also known as ablative laser resurfacing, is the most powerful non-invasive facial rejuvenation treatment available today. It utilises advanced laser technology to address a myriad of skin concerns and imperfections, dramatically improving the appearance of aging skin on the face. Focused eyelid treatment with the laser can also markedly reduce wrinkles and skin laxity around the eyes, making fully ablative laser a good option for patients hesitant to undergo eyelid surgery.

Fully ablative laser skin resurfacing can:

Thoroughly renew the skin surface for a fresher, younger appearance
Tighten loose facial skin and reduce signs of laxity
Diminish wrinkles and fine lines, especially around the eyes and mouth
Restore elasticity and thickness to crepey skin

How it works

Unlike non-ablative lasers that target underlying layers of skin while leaving the surface intact, ablative lasers work by removing the outer layers of damaged skin, stimulating collagen production, and revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin underneath. The procedure involves the precise application of a high-intensity laser beam to the skin’s surface, causing direct vaporisation (ablation) of tissue down to the reticular dermis layer of the skin and, at the same time, heats the underlying skin (dermis). This triggers the body’s natural healing response and as the skin heals, new collagen fibres form, resulting in tighter, firmer skin with improved texture and tone.

Aggressive resurfacing is better suited to fairer skin types, while cautious lighter treatments are recommended for darker complexions at higher risk of pigmentation changes.

The Treatment

Before beginning, facial skin is thoroughly cleansed and a topical anaesthetic cream applied. Additional numbing with nerve blocks or injected anaesthesia may supplement if needed for maximum comfort.

Anaesthetic prep takes around 45 minutes. Protective eye shields are put in place. Most full-face treatments will also include laser eyelid rejuvenation in the same session.

The complete resurfacing procedure usually lasts about 45 minutes. Patients report the laser feels like a prickly burning sensation. We can adjust settings as needed to keep discomfort minimal. Following treatment, the skin will be extremely red and swollen, resembling a moderate sunburn. This typically resolves within 24 hours. Once eye protection is removed, a soothing barrier cream is applied to the raw skin surface to prevent infection and moisture loss while healing.

Post treatment

Whilst less invasive than surgery, a significant recovery period can be expected after aggressive fully ablative facial treatment. After 9-10, days, patients can usually return to normal activities, though facial redness may persist for several weeks. Light makeup can conceal lingering pinkness or irritation. Gentle cleansers and moisturizers are recommended until the skin fully reacclimates. Ongoing sun protection remains extremely important to prevent dark spots and allow the new youthful skin to stabilise.

Results

This procedure can be truly transformative with improvements often described as shaving years off one’s appearance. Once healing is complete, results will be noticeable immediately. The benefits of stimulated collagen regeneration will result in progressive further improvements to your skin over the following months.

One major advantage of full ablative laser skin resurfacing is durability of results. Once healing is complete, the refreshed outer skin layer remains intact for years, unlike injectable treatments that require regular touch-ups.