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Laser Skin Resurfacing

Chevy Chase, MD

Renew Skin from Within

Introduction to Laser Skin Resurfacing

Fine lines, lingering acne marks, and uneven color can make your skin look different from how you feel. You may notice makeup settling into rough patches or sun spots becoming more visible, even with a consistent skincare routine. At Ikon Plastic Surgery, we offer laser skin resurfacing in Chevy Chase, MD, to help address these concerns with treatment suited to your skin. Our approach starts with understanding what bothers you most and how much recovery time fits your schedule.

Woman in white linen shirt with hands raised to forehead in natural light portrait - Scar revision in Chevy Chase, MD

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing uses concentrated light energy to create controlled injury in the skin, encouraging tissue renewal and collagen remodeling. Ablative lasers remove treated skin tissue, while non-ablative lasers heat tissue without vaporizing the skin’s surface. Fractional technology treats microscopic columns with untreated skin between them to support healing.

At Ikon Plastic Surgery, our laser options include Fraxel DUAL, Clear + Brilliant, and Cartessa HELIX, giving us several ways to approach concerns at different depths and with different recovery needs.

Fraxel DUAL

At our Chevy Chase practice, we offer Fraxel DUAL, a non-ablative fractional laser with two wavelengths. Its 1550 nm wavelength reaches deeper tissue to address texture and scars, while its 1927 nm wavelength treats more superficial pigmentation. Ikon’s Fraxel DUAL treatment information

Clear + Brilliant

We also offer Clear + Brilliant, a gentler fractional laser option for early texture changes, dullness, and ongoing skin maintenance. It creates small treatment zones that stimulate the skin’s renewal response. The appropriate device depends on the depth of your concerns and your skin’s characteristics. Ikon’s Clear + Brilliant treatment information

Cartessa HELIX

Cartessa HELIX combines fractional CO2 and non-ablative 1570 nm technology for customizable skin resurfacing. CoolPeel focuses on surface renewal, Sultra works below the surface to stimulate collagen, and FUSION combines both wavelengths when concerns exist at different depths. We can adjust the treatment based on your skin concerns and recovery needs.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing requires an individual assessment of skin tone, skin health, and healing history. During your Chevy Chase consultation, we will consider whether resurfacing can meaningfully address your concerns. Darker skin tones require particular care because inflammation can cause unwanted pigmentation changes. Active acne, infection, or significant skin laxity may call for a different approach. 

You may be a suitable candidate if you:

  • Have fine lines, sun damage, rough texture, or certain acne scars.
  • Have realistic expectations about gradual improvement and possible repeat treatments.
  • Can allow time for redness, sensitivity, or peeling to settle.
  • Are willing to follow preparation instructions and protect your skin from the sun.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing can address several visible skin concerns within one treatment plan. For those visiting us in Chevy Chase, we match the treatment’s intensity to the changes they want to achieve. Improvement develops as the skin heals, and results vary by condition. Potential benefits include:

  • Smoother texture: Reduce roughness and soften uneven areas.
  • More even color: Improve the appearance of sun spots and selected pigmentation concerns.
  • Softer fine lines: Encourage collagen remodeling to reduce the visibility of fine wrinkles.
  • Less noticeable scars: Improve the texture of certain acne and surgical scars without promising complete removal.
Professional woman in black blazer discussing documents with client across wooden table in office setting - in Chevy Chase, MD

How to Begin Your Laser Skin Resurfacing Journey

Your laser skin resurfacing consultation in Chevy Chase gives us time to assess your concerns and explain the options. Bring a list of medications, skincare products, and previous cosmetic treatments. Tell us about cold sores, unusual scarring, and pigmentation changes after skin injuries. We will use this information to guide your next steps:

  • Discuss your priorities: Explain which changes matter most and any upcoming events.
  • Evaluate your skin: Review your tone, texture, medical history, and suitability for laser treatment.
  • Choose an approach: Discuss the device, expected recovery, likely number of sessions, and cost.
  • Prepare for treatment: Follow individualized instructions about sun exposure, skincare, and any prescribed medication.

What to Expect on the Day of Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment

Your laser skin resurfacing appointment begins with a review of the treatment plan and skin cleansing. Your provider may apply a topical anesthetic and allow time for it to take effect. Protective eyewear is necessary during laser treatment.

Your provider moves the handpiece across the selected area in controlled passes, with the technique and settings depending on the laser being used. Treatment with Fraxel DUAL, Clear + Brilliant, or HELIX will differ in intensity and how the energy is delivered, so appointment times can vary. Before you leave, we explain how to care for the treated area and what changes to expect.

Doctor James Economides in white coat reviewing medical information on laptop at modern clinic desk - in Chevy Chase, MD

Combining My Laser Skin Resurfacing with Other Treatments

Laser skin resurfacing addresses skin quality, but other concerns may benefit from a separate treatment. At Ikon Plastic Surgery, we offer BOTOX and wrinkle relaxers for expression-related lines, as well as dermal fillers for selected areas of volume loss. These treatments may complement resurfacing when facial movement or volume changes contribute to your concerns.

We will explain which combination serves your goals and whether appointments should be spaced apart. Adding treatments is optional, and the order should account for the laser used, treatment area, and healing process.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery

Recovery can vary widely depending on the laser and treatment intensity. Clear + Brilliant is generally used for gentler fractional treatment, while Fraxel DUAL can involve more noticeable redness, swelling, or flaking. HELIX adds another range of possibilities: Sultra typically has less visible surface recovery, CoolPeel involves healing after fractional CO2 resurfacing, and FUSION recovery varies according to how the CO2 and 1570 nm wavelengths are used.

Use the cleanser and moisturizer we recommend, and avoid picking or scrubbing peeling skin. Follow our instructions about restarting makeup, exfoliating acids, and retinoids. Sun protection remains essential as your skin heals, and you should contact us if symptoms worsen instead of improving.

How Much Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost in Chevy Chase?

The cost of laser skin resurfacing in Chevy Chase depends on the laser you choose, the treatment area, and the recommended number of sessions. A limited treatment area and a more extensive resurfacing plan involve different levels of care. During your consultation, we will explain the proposed treatment and provide individualized pricing. Ask what the estimate includes, such as follow-up visits or aftercare products, so that you can plan for the full course.

Why Choose Ikon Plastic Surgery?

At Ikon Plastic Surgery, we approach laser skin resurfacing by considering your skin’s needs alongside your broader facial rejuvenation goals. Dr. James Economides is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). His background includes medical school and plastic surgery residency training at Georgetown University.

Our Chevy Chase practice emphasizes clear explanations and realistic expectations. We want you to understand the proposed treatment, its limitations, and the recovery involved before deciding how to proceed.

Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQ’S

  • Professional, kind and highly recommended!

    Dr Economides did my Botox and temple filler perfectly!! He listened to my concerns and answered all my questions. Professional, kind and highly recommended!!

    Katherine K.

  • I had an outstanding facelift experience with Dr. James Economides

    I had an outstanding facelift experience with Dr. James Economides in Arlington, VA. I wanted facial rejuvenation that looked natural — refreshed, not pulled or overdone — and that is exactly what he delivered.

    Michael K.

  • I have no hesitation in fully recommending Dr. Economides

    Dr. Economides came highly recommend by a number of skilled respected doctors. I had a neck lift, face lift and eyebrow lift. Dr. Economides and his staff have been readily available to answer any questions-pre or post surgery. I have no hesitation in fully recommending Dr. Economides for your plastic surgery.

    Virginia H.

  • Dr. Economides is a very skilled surgeon.

    Dr. Economides is a very skilled surgeon. He is honest in his assessments, as he explains what will and will not change after a procedure. I’m very pleased with the results of my facelift. Dr. Economides and his entire staff are professional, kind, and personable.

    Donna M.

  • Dr Economides is the best.

    I’m thrilled with the results of my neck lift & lower facelift. Highly recommend!

    Valerie C.

  • I highly recommend Dr. Economides.

    I had a hernia repair and abdominoplasty with diastasis rectus repair, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Not only did he resolve my medical concerns, but my abdomen looks amazing—I love my belly button again for the first time in over a decade!

    Monica M.

  • I couldn’t be happier with my experience

    I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Dr. Economides and his team. I can confidently say that I love my results! My tummy tuck and breast reduction have truly changed my confidence and comfort in my own body. The recovery process has been smooth, and any questions or concerns I had were always addressed with professionalism and kindness.

    Diana F.

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Schedule Your Consultation

Explore whether Laser Skin Resurfacing is appropriate for your concerns at Ikon Plastic Surgery in Chevy Chase. Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss persistent discoloration, texture changes, or scars and learn which options may help. We will explain the expected commitment so you can choose a plan that fits your priorities. Call (301) 800-7762 or request an appointment through our website.

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