The aging process and the cumulative effects of sun, gravity, genetics, and other factors cause a loss of skin elasticity, which leads to sagging, lipoatrophy, and other loosenings of the skin and facial structure. We tend to refer to aging-related sagging skin with unflattering terms like loose jowls, turkey neck, and falling face. Another cause of loose skin, regardless of your age, is a significant loss in body weight.

As we age we lose volume in our face, primarily fat. As a result skin can hang down as gravity acts on it creating droopiness, wrinkles and bands. This can be thought of as excess skin and is similar in concept to a dress that becomes too large as its owner loses weight. In cases where you have a signficant amount of this loose skin, you may find no other solution than plastic surgery (e.g. facelift, body lift, arm lift, etc.) because the underlying muscles need to be addressed and repositioned.

Laser Skin Tightening

Aunique facial rejuvenation option that produces dramatic results, laser skin tightening effectively reduces the appearance of wrinkles and loose skin for a smoother and more youthful appearance. Learn more about facial skin tightening below.

Skin-Tightening Procedures

Aging happens to everyone. It is a natural part of life that occurs whether you are prepared for it or not. One day you look in the mirror and see laugh lines where none existed before; you notice skin hanging in areas it shouldn't. While some choose Botox treatments and invasive medical procedures to correct these issues, there are alternatives to tightening your skin and helping you regain your youthful appearance.

Titan

The Titan procedure, though useful for any area of the body, is known as the non-surgical face lift. With the use of infrared light, doctors reach the deeper layers of the skin to tighten the collagen that has lost its elasticity. The skin and underlying fat are heated simultaneously, which eliminates the chances of skin dimpling from occurring. Anyone can have this procedure performed, regardless of size or skin type; however, results may vary according to the individual--some notice results almost immediately, while others notice skin tightening over a period of time, generally between three and six months.

One of the drawbacks to this procedure is the possibility of redness and swelling from the direct heat on the outer layer of the skin. Though this only lasts for a few hours after the procedure, many patients choose to take a mild pain reliever prior to the procedure to relieve any mild discomfort they may experience. These sessions generally last about one hour.

Skin Tyte

This is a non-invasive procedure as well, and uses infrared light to tighten the skin. However, this procedure also uses a cooling system, which makes the patient more comfortable during the procedure. As the heat from the light is tightening the deeper layers of the skin, the cooling system works on the outer layer, preventing redness and swelling from taking place.

The Skin Tyte procedure is performed in a series of two to five sessions, lasting 45 minutes each, that are usually spaced three weeks apart. It is particularly helpful for those who wish to improve the appearance of wrinkles or remove patches of discoloration on the neck and face caused by sun damage. It can be performed on all areas of the body and is safe for all skin types.

Refirm

Refirm uses a combination of treatment: conducted electrical current and optimal light energy. It is especially helpful for those who wish to decrease the appearance of wrinkles, and its effects continue after the treatment.

During the Refirm procedure, collagen production is stimulated in the patient, allowing for a continuous firming effect and reduction of wrinkles. There are many pluses to using this method, one of which includes immediate results. There is also no requirement for sedation as there is no discomfort associated with this procedure.

The entire session lasts a maximum of one hour, and depending on your desired results, three to four treatments may be needed. It is also a procedure that can be used on any skin type.

What Is Laser Skin Tightening?

Laser skin tightening is a minimally invasive, non-surgical process that uses an infrared light source (a laser) to tighten skin by heating the collagen under the skin’s surface, causing the skin to contract (tighten). Facial skin tightening is noticeable immediately after the treatment, and there is no downtime, making this an increasingly popular procedure. Additional skin tightening occurs over the next few months, but optimal results usually require two or three treatments about a month apart.

Laser Skin Tightening Candidates

Many people notice signs of aging when skin begins to sag around the face and neck. Laser skin tightening is appropriate for men and women of all skin types and skin tones who wish to achieve dramatic results without painful surgery and lengthy recovery times. The most successful laser skin tightening candidates experience permanent results as the collagen under their skin is regenerated, producing a more youthful complexion.

Cost of Laser Skin Tightening

Laser skin tightening helps patients achieve younger-looking, smoother skin without undergoing expensive surgeries such as a face lift or a tummy tuck – and the results won’t fade after a few months. Laser skin tightening treatment cost varies depending on the individual patient’s needs such as the size and location of the area to be tightened, and the type of laser used. However, facial skin tightening is considerably less expensive than invasive surgeries, and financing options are available.

Laser Skin Tightening Systems

Using the latest technologies, laser skin tightening effectively rejuvenates all skin types for firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Popular skin tightening treatments utilize the Titan® or Polaris™ systems, which use laser technology to gently heat deeper layers of collagen while cooling the skin’s outer layers. Skin tightening patients enjoy immediate results with minimal discomfort. A cosmetic dermatologist can determine the most effective laser skin tightening treatment for you.

Risks and Benefits of Laser Skin Tightening

One of the greatest benefits of laser skin tightening is the minimal amount of risk associated with the procedure. Patients experience firmer skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles, and there is no downtime. Skin tightening occurs immediately, and results continue to improve over the next several weeks. Risks associated with laser skin tightening include temporary reddening of the skin, a slight chance of scarring, and the possibility of brief lightening or darkening of the skin in treated areas.

Laser Skin Tightening Recovery and Results

Laser skin tightening offers many of the same results as plastic surgery without the lengthy recovery time. While the procedure cannot remove excess skin, patients experience tightening of loose skin immediately, with less wrinkles in the treated area and a firmer, healthier-looking complexion. Laser skin tightening requires no recovery after treatment because it is a non-surgical procedure that involves no incisions.

What are the benefits of Laser skin tightening treatments?Laser treatments now make it possible to tighten loose skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and
reduce pore size. Laser skin tightening treatments take 60 minutes or less and there is little to no
downtime. When compared to other non-surgical skin improvement techniques, laser skin
tightening offers superior results, safety and value.
How does Laser skin tightening work?Laser-light is applied to the surface of the skin and passes harmlessly into its deeper layers. As
the laser light reaches the dermis, a controlled amount of therapeutic heat is delivered to the
collagen which results in growth stimulation and tightening.
How do I prepare for a Laser skin tightening treatment?Clients scheduled for laser skin tightening treatment should make certain the skin is thoroughly
cleansed and dried, removing any cosmetics, oils, creams or self-tanning lotions before treatment.
Comfortable, loose fitting clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area should be worn.
Prior to laser treatment please avoid the following:

direct sun exposure or sun tanning booths for two or more weeks prior to treatment.
use of oral acne medications such as acutane or similar for at least six months prior to laser treatment.
use of topical acne medications such as retinol, retin-A or similar for 7 days prior to laser treatment.

What can I expect during a Laser skin tightening treatment?Laser skin tightening treatment will take place in our clinic. For added comfort, a topical numbing
cream may be applied to the treatment area for 45-60 minutes prior to treatment. You will be
given protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light. The laser practitioner will apply
brief laser pulses to the surface of the skin with a small handpiece. Each laser pulse will be
preceded and followed by a burst of cooling spray that provides a localized ‘numbing’ effect. A
series of three passes will be performed over each treatment area. Most laser skin tightening
treatments last 45 minutes or less.
Does a Laser skin tightening treatment hurt?During the procedure, you will feel a gradual warming of the skin. For maximum comfort, we
recommend purchase of a topical ‘numbing’ cream. The cream should be applied 45-60 minutes
prior to treatment. However most of the patients never need to apply any local anaesthetic cream.
How long does a Laser skin tightening take?This procedure generally takes 45-60 minutes.
What can I expect after a Laser skin tightening treatment?Most clients can resume normal activities the same day. The treated skin is usually red and warm
for a short amount of time following the treatment. It is recommended that you avoid direct sun
exposure and sun tanning booths for 14 days following laser treatment. An SPF of 30 or higher
should be worn over the treated area.
Are there side effects associated with a Laser skin tightening treatment?Laser skin tightening treatments are safe and effective. Most people resume normal daily
activities shortly after treatment and experience few side effects. Temporary side effects usually
resolve in a short time and can include: localized bruising, redness, blistering, skin sensitivity,
increased discomfort, changes in skin color, and swelling. Permanent side effects are rare.
How many Laser skin tightening treatments will I need?A series of four to six laser treatments is recommended. Maximum visible results are usually
reached six months following the last treatment session. Treatments are usually scheduled four
weeks apart.
What type of lasers are used for skin tightening?At our centre we are proud to partner with The Candela® GentleYAG. The Candela® GentleYAG
laser is a long pulsed Nd:Yag laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm and is capable of treating all skin
types (I-VI). It is equipped with a unique cooling spray device that allows for gentle and safe laser
application. The Nd:YAG laser is ideal for skin tightening because of its depth of penetration,
decreased risk of side effects, increased skin protection properties and treatment wavelength.