Laser Surgery
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Advanced Laser technology brings aesthetic facial and snoring (sleep apnea) surgery to our office. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser allows vaporization of wrinkles, pigmented spots and acne scars. Incisional techniques include upper and lower Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty). Cosmetic Facial Resurfacing is preceded by application of glycolic acid, retinoids and possibly Hydroquinone. Laser therapy is followed by daily U.V. protection and glycolic acid cosmetics to maintain healthy skin.

For more information scroll down or click on your item of interest below:
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) * Skin Resurfacing * Snoring Correction (Sleep Apnea)


                   For Your Eyes Only - Blepharoplasty

              

      Before                             After      

                                                 

Upper blepharoplasty utilizes a laser incision to remove excess tissue and underlying fat of the upper eyelid. While often times performed for cosmetic only reasons, visual field obstruction may be present and, therefore, the procedure may be insurance reimbursed.

Lower blepharoplasty utilizes a laser incision on the inside of the lower eyelid and no sutures are used. The three fat pads are removed and the lid put back into its normal position.

Our in office video-computer system can show you how you might look after these procedures have been performed. Back to Top

 


Skin Resurfacing

Before                             After               

The goal of these procedures is to improve the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles. There are several methods available for skin

resurfacing - dermabrasion, chemical peel and laser.

  • In Dermabrasion, layers of skin are "sanded" to uncover new skin.

  • In Chemical Peels, acidic compounds are used to destroy the outer layers of skin. Different acids and chemicals are used to control the depth of the peel.

  • Laser Resurfacing uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to accurately remove layers of skin. There is less risk of hyperpigmentation with laser and the depth of treatment is also more easily controlled.

How does the laser work?
There are different lasers for different tasks. CO2 lasers vaporize water containing tissue and therefore are useful for treating skin structures. The laser vaporizes tissue which can then be wiped away, clearly exposing the underlying layer of skin.

What can Cosmetic Facial Resurfacing be used for?
This technique has been successfully used for fine wrinkles of the face, acne scars, pigmentary irregularities and tattoos.

Can I have Cosmetic Facial Resurfacing?
A consultation is the best route to answer this question. In general fairer skinned individuals are ideal candidates for this surgery. However, factors such as past keloid production, use of Accutane and other factors are important when determining suitability for this surgery.

Please remember the goal of treatment is enhancement of your skin. A "perfect" result may not be technically possible.

What happens before surgery?
Medical photography is followed by an in depth discussion of the surgical goals. Pre-Surgery procedures are reviewed and a date for a glycolic acid peel is set. Prescriptions are provided and post operation instructions are reviewed. Back to Top

 


Snoring - Sleep Apnea

Finally, laser surgery, because it controls bleeding as it cuts, can remove parts of the soft palate and pharynx. This makes it possible to remove excess tissue in the throat and relieve both snoring and sleep apnea symptoms without being admitted to the hospital.

Snoring - Sleep Apnea evaluation starts with a history and physical exam. If clinically appropriate, a nocturnal sleep study is ordered. Non surgical treatment includes Continuous Positive Airway Pressure - CPAP, mandibular advancing devices, or modifying sleep positions. Surgical treatment is called UPP ( Uvulo-Palato-Plasty ). Surgical treatment is preceded by nasopharyngolaryngoscopy. A thin diameter fiber optic tube is inserted through the nose to evaluate sinus openings, soft palate and larynx. Proper evaluation is essential for choosing candidates for this procedure.

Click on the folder icon to read an article written by one of my surgical trainers, Edward M. Zimmerman M.D. Back to Top


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Copyright © 1997 Raymond D. Wolf, D.O. - All Rights Reserved.