Laser Skin Rejuvenation and Resurfacing

At Des Moines Plastic Surgery, we offer a full line of laser services using the latest in laser technology under the direct supervision of Dr. Robbins, board certified plastic surgeon. We understand that not all patients desire cosmetic surgery. So, we offer a wide scope of laser services within Des Moines Plastic Surgery which allows Dr. Robbins to select the most appropriate and effective treatment for each and every patient. The following list outlines the laser skin rejuvenation and resurfacing services we offer. Each laser application is described below. For a complete evaluation and discussion about our Laser Center, please call us for your complimentary cosmetic consultation at 515-221-9999 or attend one of our informational seminars.

As we age, our skin changes. The youthful appearance of the skin gives way to loss of elasticity, discoloration, sun spots, wrinkles, and enlargement of pores. Lasers have improved our ability to treat skin conditions and improve the appearance of the skin. Dr. Robbins is the Medical Director of The Laser Center at Des Moines Plastic Surgery. We offer the latest technology in laser skin treatments. All lasers are either performed by Dr Robbins himself or one of his highly qualified staff members. Unlike many other “laser centers” that do not have an onsite supervising physician, at Des Moines Plastic surgery your comfort and safety is of the utmost importance.

If you would like to improve the surface and appearance of your skin, reduce fine lines, surface irregularities such as scarring, uneven pigmentation and sun damage, then skin resurfacing may be right for you. In laser skin resurfacing a laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. The procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. However, it is also effective in treating facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. Often, the procedure is done in conjunction with another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.

LASER SKIN RESURFACING AND REJUVENATION

Using the Lumenis Fractionated CO2 UltraPulse Laser

(Active FX, Deep FX, and Total FX)

Click on the images below to view videos about the Lumenis UltraPulse Laser

Go to the Before & After Photo Gallery - Non-Surgical

to see the amazing results using the UltraPulse Laser

The laser resurfacing system from Lumenis is a CO2 laser. CO2 lasers have been the gold standard in skin resurfacing for many years and Dr. Robbins has years of training and expertise using the CO2 laser. New fractionated technology from Lumenis allows you to get the results you want just like the traditional CO2 lasers of the past but with the added benefit of minimal downtime. This is a huge advantage over other resurfacing lasers on the market. Dr. Robbins is aware that his patients are active and busy with their family, career, and other activities. The minimal downtime with this laser has made it extremely popular. Many other laser systems are not aggressive enough to give you much of a benefit. The UltraPulse Laser from Lumenis results in remarkable, long lasting results and in most cases this can be accomplished in just one treatment. The Active FX treatment is your single treatment solution for wrinkled, sun damaged skin and is now available at the Laser Center of Des Moines Plastic Surgery.

Laser resurfacing involves the Active FX, Deep FX, or the Total FX. The Laser Center at Des Moines Plastic Surgery is the first and only plastic surgery practice in Iowa to purchase these lasers. This laser system is a long-lasting, single treatment approach for wrinkles, dark spots, sun damage, scars and other skin irregularities. In addition, this laser system will stimulate the formation of new collagen to provide better elasticity and support for the skin. Click here to learn more about the Lumenis UltraPulse Laser.

Is Active FX right for you? Active FX is an ideal treatment option for you if you:

The Lumenis UltraPulse Total FX treatment offered at Des Moines Plastic surgery was featured recently on 20/20 for treating burn scars. To see the inspiring story of triplets burned as infants and now being treated with the CO2 laser and the profound difference it has made, click here.

What is Active FX?

A high energy laser contacts the skin surface causing the outer layer to peel off and regenerate a layer of new, healthy skin. Essentially, the damaged outer layer of skin is removed down to healthy undamaged skin below. The laser is pulsed or fractionated leaving small “bridges” of untouched skin. The fractionated portion of the laser makes the healing process much faster and enables you to get back to normal activities sooner. Typically 5-7 days of peeling and redness can be expected after the Active FX. The downtime is similar to a sunburn.

What is Deep FX?

Deep FX involves a more aggressive approach and penetration of the skin is deeper. The Deep FX is used to treat deeper wrinkles and scars. It is particularly useful on acne scars. The Deep FX is oftentimes combined with the Active FX. Since the Deep FX penetrates a little deeper into the skin, the downtime is slightly longer (7-10 days of peeling and redness to the skin) compared to the Active FX alone. Makeup can generally be applied in 4-7 days. The deep FX also results in deep dermal skin heating which stimulates new collagen formation. Collagen forms the framework or building blocks of the skin and can be damaged by the sun and with aging. New collagen formation results in tighter, firmer, healthier skin.

What is Total/FX?

Total FX is a combination of Active and Deep FX. The Deep FX is performed first on the deeper wrinkles and/or scars. This is followed immediately with the Active FX. Total FX is the most effective way to treat the skin. It is the most advanced and aggressive treatment of the skin.