Sciton Laser Skin Resurfacing

About laser skin resurfacing

Formerly, skin resurfacing was done by sanding down the skin using a wire brush or a diamond-coated wheel. This dermabrasion was technically demanding and had a significant risk of side effects. When the CO2 laser was developed, it replaced dermabrasion because it was easier to perform and safer. However, there were still long healing times and sometimes permanent lightening of the skin.

To further reduce these problems a cooler laser, the erbium YAG laser, was developed. The Sciton laser is the most advanced and sophisticated of these lasers. Its advanced scanner and computerized controls allow precision resurfacing with a much reduced risk of side effects. The resurfacing mode of the Sciton laser is a much more intense treatment than either the MicroLaserPeel or Arctic Peel.

Benefits of a single treatment

• Reduce or eliminate wrinkles
• Markedly improve aged and sun damaged skin
• Improve brown spots and discoloration
• Produce new young collagen
• Reduce the risk of skin cancer
• Tighten skin and improve skin tone

Alternative treatments

• Fraxel re:store laser resurfacing
• Fraxel re:pair laser resurfacing
• Fillers (Restylane, Juvéderm, Radiesse)
• Orion laser toning
• MicroLaserPeel
• Subcision
• CO2 Resurfacing

Lips before treatment	Lips after Sciton laser resurfacing
Lips after resurfacing and Restylane filler

How does it work?

As it is passed over the skin, the Sciton resurfacing laser precisely vaporizes the outermost layers, inducing the formation of new collagen and tissue remodeling. This results in the improvement or elimination of scars and wrinkles, as well as the rejuvenation of the skin surface improving discolorations and sun damage. Because of the removal of sun damaged cells, the risk of developing skin cancer is reduced. This treatment can be quite effective for deeply etched lines in the face, such as those sometimes seen on the upper lip.

Who is a candidate for this treatment?

Most individuals, except those with dark skin, can benefit from this treatment.

How should I prepare for treatment and what should I expect?

No special preparation is necessary. You should inform us if you have a history of facial cold sores. Most people notice a decrease in wrinkles and discolorations, as well as an overall more youthful skin appearance.

What happens after treatment?

There will be some swelling, scabbing and crusting which may last a week or more. The area treated should be kept moist with ointment. After the skin clears there will be some residual pinkness and swelling which gradually fade. A new, fresher looking you will appear.

How many treatments will I need?

Generally a single treatment is sufficient.

Does it hurt?

The use of local anesthetics and nerve blocks make the subsequent procedure pain-free. After the anesthetic wears off, there is mild discomfort that is usually controlled with over the counter pain medications.

Who performs the treatments?

The treatments are performed by Dr. Bock.

Why should you choose California Skin & Laser Center for your Sciton laser treatment?

At California Skin & Laser Center, we want you to have an excellent outcome and to feel that your needs and concerns have been promptly addressed in a caring and sensitive fashion. We strive diligently to ensure your satisfaction, your comfort, your privacy, and your safety. All treatments are supervised or performed by a board-certified dermatologist with many years of successful experience in a large variety of cosmetic procedures. Many treatment modalities are available, and we can recommend the one or two that are most likely to meet your needs; we're here to meet your needs and help you realize your aspirations. At our clinic in Stockton, CA, we serve communities throughout San Joaquin County and the Central Valley, including Lodi, Sacramento, Tracy, Manteca, Modesto, Galt, and Valley Springs; many of our patients also come from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Safety and side effects

Infection, scarring and change in skin coloration (either hyper or hypopigmentation) is possible with almost any laser treatment. However, the Sciton resurfacing laser was designed specifically to reduce the chances of these problems, and in our hands it has been trouble-free so far.