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Deep Erbium Resurfacing

laser skin resurfacing with deep erbium resurfacing

Sun exposure, gravity and the passage of time can leave their mark on your skin: think stubborn wrinkles, acne scars, dark spots, and textural irregularities that other treatments simply can’t address. When you’re ready for truly transformative results, deep erbium resurfacing with Sciton’s Contour TRL can help you reclaim a smoother, firmer and more radiant appearance. 

At The Ottawa Clinic, we’re proud to offer this advanced laser technology that delivers remarkable rejuvenation with greater precision and safety than traditional CO2 lasers. If you’ve been considering more aggressive treatments for persistent skin concerns, deep erbium resurfacing may be exactly what you need to turn back the clock.

What Is Deep Erbium Resurfacing?

Deep erbium resurfacing treatments at The Ottawa Clinic are performed using Contour TRL (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) by Sciton, an advanced system designed to treat advanced signs of aging and sun damage. In the past, CO2 lasers were the go-to for deep resurfacing, and while they remain effective, erbium offers comparable results with greater comfort and significantly fewer complications. 

This is an ablative treatment, meaning it removes the damaged outer layers of skin to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance. The underlying tissue is also heated, stimulating collagen production for long-term improvements. During the healing process, new skin regrows in treated areas, leaving your complexion noticeably firmer and smoother with fewer dark patches.

Deep erbium resurfacing with Contour TRL is a remarkably precise treatment, allowing us to remove damaged skin with micron-level control. This ensures we treat at the exact depth needed for your specific concerns while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

See Deep Erbium Resurfacing in Action

What Does Deep Erbium Resurfacing Treat?

Deep erbium resurfacing is particularly effective for addressing advanced signs of aging and sun damage that haven’t responded well to other treatments. This includes:

While lighter resurfacing treatments work well for maintenance and early signs of aging, deep erbium resurfacing can tackle more advanced concerns that have developed over many years. Many patients find that this treatment can delay or even eliminate the need for surgical procedures like facelifts, particularly when addressing concerns around the mouth and eyes.

Am I a Candidate for Deep Erbium Resurfacing?

Deep erbium resurfacing delivers transformative results, but as a more aggressive option, it isn’t right for everyone. Ideal candidates have moderate to severe concerns, are ready for dramatic improvement and can accommodate the necessary recovery time. Certain conditions may disqualify you from treatment, such as a history of keloid scarring, use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past year, active skin infections and a compromised immune system. During your consultation, we’ll review your complete medical history to determine your candidacy. 

How to Prepare for Deep Erbium Resurfacing

Proper preparation is essential for achieving optimal results and minimizing the risk of complications. Starting about two to three weeks before your treatment, you’ll need to protect your skin from sun exposure, including tanning beds and self-tanning products. Tanned or sunburned skin cannot be safely treated and will require rescheduling your procedure.

You’ll also be asked to discontinue certain skincare products and medications before your treatment, such as retinoids, blood-thinning medications, fish oil supplements and exfoliants. If you smoke, vape or use other tobacco products, you’ll be asked to stop at least two weeks before and after your treatment, as nicotine significantly impairs the healing process. 

Many practitioners recommend using specialized pre-treatment skincare products in the weeks leading up to your procedure. These products, such as those containing growth factors or peptides, can help optimize your skin’s healing response and potentially shorten your recovery time. We’ll provide specific recommendations during your consultation.

What to Expect From Deep Erbium Resurfacing Recovery

Recovery from deep erbium resurfacing is more involved than lighter laser treatments, but for patients ready for significant improvement in their skin’s appearance, the dramatic results make it worthwhile. Understanding what to expect will help you prepare adequately and navigate the healing process with confidence.

Immediately After Treatment 

Immediately after your treatment, your skin will appear red and swollen. You may experience pinpoint bleeding or oozing, particularly in the first 48 to 72 hours. This is completely normal and part of the healing process. Your skin will feel warm and tight, similar to a severe sunburn.

First Few Days After Treatment

For the first several days, you’ll need to apply prescribed ointments or healing balms to keep your skin moist and protected. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions about how to use these products and care for your skin without disrupting the healing process.

One to Two Weeks After Treatment 

Erbium resurfacing with Contour TRL is highly customizable, so the intensity and duration of your recovery will depend on how deeply you were treated:

Recovery Tips 

During your recovery, you must avoid direct sun exposure. Your newly treated skin will be extremely vulnerable to UV damage, and sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and other complications. Stay indoors as much as possible, and when you must go out, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply mineral-based sunscreen once your provider clears you to do so.

The healing process requires patience. Follow your aftercare instructions diligently and resist the urge to pick or touch your face excessively: the key is to keep your skin clean and moist. You’ll notice a visibly smoother, refreshed appearance about one week after your treatment, with continued improvements over the next four to six months as new collagen is produced. 

Can I Combine Deep Erbium Resurfacing With Other Treatments?

Because deep erbium resurfacing is an intensive treatment with expected downtime, we typically recommend performing it as a standalone procedure. However, once your skin has fully healed, you may benefit from additional treatments to address other aesthetic concerns. Injectables like BOTOX, dermal fillers or Sculptra can complement your resurfacing results by addressing volume loss or dynamic wrinkles that the laser doesn’t treat. During your consultation, we’ll assess your goals to recommend an appropriately sequenced treatment plan that allows you to achieve comprehensive results without adding to your recovery. 

FAQs

Is Deep Erbium Resurfacing Painful?

Comfort levels vary from patient to patient, depending on factors like the depth of treatment and your individual pain tolerance. Lighter treatments are well-tolerated with a topical cream, while deeper treatments use an injection of local anesthesia to numb the area and keep you comfortable. After treatment, we’ll provide recommendations for managing any discomfort, which typically includes over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses.

How Long Does Deep Erbium Resurfacing Take?

The treatment itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to perform, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. Isolated concerns around the eyes or mouth may be quicker, while full-face resurfacing requires more time. You should plan to spend additional time at our office following your treatment to review your aftercare instructions with your provider. 

When Will I Notice Results?

You’ll begin to see initial improvements within one to two weeks as the healing process unfolds and new skin emerges. The most dramatic results develop gradually over the following months. As collagen production increases and remodeling continues, you’ll notice progressive improvements in skin tone, texture and wrinkle reduction. Peak results typically appear around three to six months after treatment, with continued enhancement possible for up to a year.

How Long Will My Results Last?

Deep erbium resurfacing produces long-lasting results. Many patients enjoy their improved appearance for years, and some effects are permanent, particularly the removal of sun damage and pigmentation. However, your skin will continue to age naturally. Protecting your skin from sun exposure, maintaining a good skincare routine and scheduling maintenance visits with less intensive treatments like BBL therapy can help preserve your results for as long as possible.

How Much Does Deep Erbium Resurfacing Cost?

The cost of deep erbium resurfacing varies based on the size of the treatment area, the depth of treatment and your specific needs. During your consultation, we’ll provide you with a detailed quote that reflects your personalized treatment plan. We believe in complete transparency about pricing and will clearly outline all associated costs before you commit to the procedure.

Want to Book a Consultation?

Deep erbium resurfacing with Contour TRL offers transformative results for patients ready to address significant signs of aging and sun damage. At The Ottawa Clinic, we’re committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with the most advanced technology available.

If you’d like to learn more about deep erbium resurfacing or explore whether this treatment is right for you, call us at 613-232-7777 or fill out our online contact form. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to schedule your consultation and answer any questions you have. We look forward to helping you achieve the dramatic, natural-looking rejuvenation you deserve.