For a long time, plastic surgery was the only way to rejuvenate. But this method has many contraindications, and it 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 dangerous. One of the worthy alternatives to plastic surgery is a laser face lift.
What is it?
Laser lift is a modern non-surgical way to combat age-related skin changes. This technique aims to improve the quality of the skin. Stimulates regenerative processes (cell renewal), improves blood circulation in areas of laser exposure, helping to smooth wrinkles.
During the procedure, natural collagen is actively produced, providing elasticity to the tissues. This is especially important for areas with delicate skin, where various rejuvenation methods are unacceptable.
The difference between laser lift and other plastic surgery and face lift methods is that this procedure does not involve surgery. The operation is performed with special equipment for laser therapy. The light beam penetrates the skin and acts on the dead and weakened cells.
The laser face lift can be performed on 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.
Generally, cosmetologists prescribe laser lifting courses, as 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.
Instructions for the procedure
Laser lifting will help solve a lot of problems. The procedure is indicated for patients with the following problems:
- sagging skin of the eyelids;
- expression and wrinkles of age;
- dark circles and bags under the eyes;
- pronounced nasolabial fold;
- acne scars;
- small scars;
- enlarged pores;
- unhealthy complexion;
- the presence of age spots;
- vascular networks;
- sunken double chin;
- neck wrinkles.
Contraindications
Laser lifting is contraindicated in the presence of the following factors:
- acute inflammatory and infectious diseases;
- any oncological disease;
- chronic diseases;
- various diseases of the blood;
- 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 rejuvenation
Currently, in the practice of cosmetology, laser lifting is performed 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, layers of dead skin gradually evaporate. The ablative facelift is traumatic, but it guarantees the result.
Non-ablative
This technique consists of a laser beam that penetrates 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 the tone of the tissues, resulting in a face lift.
Unlike ablative tightening, which is also called "burning, " the non-ablative technique is considered gentler. The non-ablative lift method can 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.
Preparation 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 draw a conclusion about the convenience 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 must also be aware of all the diseases that the patient has suffered.
About two weeks before the session, there are simple rules to follow:
- they refuse to visit the bathhouse, the sauna and the solarium, and they also do not sunbathe;
- do not consume alcoholic beverages;
- drink antiviral drugs in a course (only as prescribed by a cosmetologist).
It is not recommended to consume coffee and energy drinks on the day of the session.
How is the facelift performed?
The technique of performing a laser survey is relatively simple:
- The patient puts a medical cap or bandage on his head to remove his hair and lies down on the sofa.
- Next, the doctor prepares the skin: removes makeup residue and oily 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.
- The patient's eyes must be protected during the session, so they must wear dark glasses. After completing the preparatory measurements, you can begin the laser lifting process.
- The doctor passes a special device with a handpiece (manipulator) over the patient's face, paying attention to especially problem areas and carefully resolving them.
A different computer is used depending on the procedure used. It differs in exposure technology and penetration depth of the light beam.
There are two types of lasers: hot and cold. For a face lift, a carbon dioxide, erbium, or diode laser can be used.
- The carbon dioxide laser is the most powerful. Helps remove 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 performed using a diode laser. The light beam can penetrate 5-50mm inward.
Ablative rejuvenation is performed with a carbon dioxide laser. Under the influence of heat, dead cells gradually evaporate and ultimately a new and youthful skin remains.
Diode and erbium lasers are used for non-ablative facelift.The action of the light beam is directed to the inner layers of the skin. The collagen production processes are triggered in the connective tissues, contributing to the tightening and rejuvenation of the skin.
After the procedure is complete, the esthetician treats the patient's face with an antiseptic and then applies a soothing cream or mask.
Before and after photos
Later in the photo you can see the result before and after the procedure.
Rehabilitation
The length 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, redness, swelling and tenderness of the skin are common. These are permissible consequences of laser lifting and should not be alarming. After a few days, the symptoms will go away 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 or three months;
- be sure to wear sunscreen when you go out;
- do not use decorative cosmetics until the skin is fully restored;
- try to touch your face with your hands as little as possible;
- exclude facial massage;
- give up bad habits;
- eat a healthy diet;
- drink lots of fluids.
With proper care and compliance with the esthetician's instructions, the results of an adjustment can already be seen after seven days. The skin will become firmer and healthier, wrinkles and scars will disappear. The oval of the face will acquire a uniform shape and clear contours. The changes are usually not visible immediately after the procedure.
Complications
Laser face lift is considered a safe method of rejuvenation. During the procedure, there is no direct skin contact with the equipment, thus minimizing the risks of infection from various diseases. Complications can arise 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;
- white dots;
- scar formation (in case the formed scabs are pulled off).