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
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.
Skin Resurfacing
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.
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. 
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