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 solved with the help of surgical intervention.
Fortunately, modern aesthetic medicine offers many anti-aging treatments that are less hazardous. One of the worthy alternatives to plastic surgery is a laser facelift.
What is it?
Laser lifting is a modern non-surgical way to combat age-related skin changes. This technique is aimed at improving the quality of the skin. It stimulates regenerative processes (cell renewal), improves blood circulation in the areas of laser exposure, which helps to smooth wrinkles.
During the procedure, natural collagen is actively produced, which provides tissue elasticity. This is especially important for areas with delicate skin, where various rejuvenation methods are unacceptable.
The difference between laser lifting and other methods of plastic surgery and facelift is that this procedure does not involve surgery. The operation is performed using special equipment for laser therapy. The light beam penetrates the skin and acts on weakened and dead cells.
Laser facelift can be done for women and men between the ages of 18 and 70. Most often, the need for this procedure arises after 30 years, when the first signs of skin aging appear.
Usually, cosmetologists prescribe laser lifting courses, since one session is not enough. Achievement of the maximum effect is possible 3 months after the last procedure performed. With proper skin care, the rejuvenating effect can last for about three years.
Indications for the procedure
Laser lifting will help in solving a large number of problems. The procedure is indicated for patients with the following problems:
- saggy skin of the eyelids;
- expression and age wrinkles;
- dark circles and bags under the eyes;
- pronounced nasolabial fold;
- acne scars;
- small scars;
- enlarged pores;
- unhealthy complexion;
- presence of age spots;
- vascular networks;
- sagging double chin;
- neck wrinkles.
Contraindications
Laser lifting is contraindicated in the presence of the following factors:
- acute inflammatory and infectious diseases;
- any oncological diseases;
- chronic diseases;
- various blood diseases;
- pregnancy and lactation;
- HIV infection;
- diabetes mellitus;
- mental disorders;
- diseases associated with the thyroid gland;
- epilepsy;
- hepatitis;
- skin diseases of any nature;
- poor blood clotting.
Types of skin resurfacing
Currently, in cosmetology practice, laser lifting is carried out using two technologies: ablative and non-ablative. They differ in that each uses a different type of laser.
Ablative
Ablative is the most widespread laser lifting technology.The impact of the light beam is directed to the outer layer of the epidermis, which is constantly in contact with the environment.
Under the action of a laser, the dead skin layers are gradually evaporated. The ablative facelift is traumatic, but it guarantees the result.
Non-ablative
This technique involves a laser beam penetrating deep into the skin, stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin. The top layer of the skin remains intact. This method of laser lifting helps to improve tissue tone, resulting in a facelift.
Unlike ablative tightening, which is also called "burn", the non-ablative technique is considered to be more gentle. The non-ablative method of lifting is allowed to be used to affect sensitive skin areas - the eyelids and the area around the eyes.
This technology is not very popular, as many cosmetologists doubt its effectiveness.
Preparing for the procedure
Before the laser lifting procedure, it is imperative to visit a beautician who will assess the general condition of the skin and make a conclusion about the expediency of the operation.To reduce the risk of side effects, you will need to pass the following tests:
- General analysis of blood and urine;
- chest x-ray;
- syphilis test;
- HIV test;
- cardiogram of the heart.
The doctor should also be aware of all the diseases that the patient has suffered.
About two weeks before the session, there are simple rules to follow:
- refuse to visit the bathhouse, sauna and solarium, as well as not sunbathe in the sun;
- do not consume alcoholic beverages;
- drink antiviral drugs in a course (only as prescribed by a cosmetologist).
It is not advisable to consume coffee and energy drinks on the day of the session.
How is facelift done?
The technique of performing a laser lifting is relatively simple:
- The patient puts a medical cap or bandage on his head to remove his hair and lies down on the couch.
- Next, the doctor prepares the skin: removes the remnants of makeup and greasy secretions.
- Then a cooling gel is applied to the face. For patients with very sensitive skin, anesthetic creams are used.
- The procedure is painful. For this reason, it is often performed under local or general anesthesia.
- During the session, the patient's eyes must be protected, so they wear dark glasses. After completing the preparatory measures, you can begin the laser lifting process.
- The doctor runs a special device with a handpiece (maniple) over the patient's face, paying attention to especially problem areas and carefully working them out.
Different equipment is 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.
- The carbon dioxide laser is the most powerful. Helps get rid of any wrinkles and scars.
- Erbium effectively fights the first signs of aging. Has a mild effect on the surface of the skin.
- Deep skin rejuvenation is carried out by means of 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, dead cells are gradually evaporated, and ultimately new and young skin is left.
Erbium and diode lasers are used for non-ablative facelift.The action of the light beam is directed to the inner layers of the skin. Collagen production processes are triggered in the connective tissues, contributing to the tightening and rejuvenation of the skin.
After the end of the procedure, the beautician treats the patient's face with an antiseptic, then applies a soothing cream or mask.
Before and after photos
Further on the photo you can see the result before and after the procedure.
Rehabilitation
The duration of the rehabilitation period depends on the technology of the procedure.The more intense the impact, the longer it will take for the complete restoration of the skin.
During rehabilitation, skin redness, swelling, and hypersensitivity are common. These are permissible consequences of laser lifting and should not be alarming. After a few days, the symptoms will disappear on their own.
After a laser lift, the skin needs gentle care. The patient must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations and adhere to the following rules:
- do not visit the pool, sauna, bathhouse and beach for two to three months;
- be sure to use sunscreen when going outside;
- do not use decorative cosmetics until the skin is completely restored;
- try to touch your face with your hands as little as possible;
- exclude facial massage;
- give up bad habits;
- follow a healthy diet;
- drink plenty of fluids.
With proper care and adherence to the beautician's instructions, the results of the tightening can be seen already after seven days. The skin will become firmer and healthier, wrinkles and scars will disappear. The oval of the face will take on an even shape and clear outlines. Changes are usually not visible immediately after the procedure.
Complications
Laser facelift is considered a safe method of rejuvenation. During the procedure, there is no direct contact of the skin with the equipment, so the risks of infection with various diseases are minimized. Complications can occur in two cases: an insufficient level of professionalism of the cosmetologist and non-compliance by the patient with the rules of care.
The most dangerous side effects are:
- herpes;
- increased skin pigmentation;
- whiteheads;
- scar formation (in case of tearing off the formed crusts).