Erbium Laser Resurfacing
Dr. Brock Lanier, MD, FACS | OncoPlastic Surgery in Newport Beach
Reveal your skin’s radiance with precision and care.
Laser skin resurfacing is a powerful treatment designed to improve skin tone, texture, and overall appearance.
By using concentrated beams of light energy, the laser targets damaged skin layer by layer—stimulating collagen production, reducing signs of aging, and leaving skin smoother, brighter, and rejuvenated.
We use cutting-edge Sciton Erbium laser technology to customize your experience based on your skin type, goals, and lifestyle.
What It Treats
Softens fine lines and wrinkles
Smooths rough texture and acne scars
Pigmentation & sun damage
Tightens mild skin laxity
Minimizes enlarged pores
Stimulates collagen renewal
How It Works
Erbium laser resurfacing uses precise laser pulses to remove the outermost layers of damaged skin while minimizing heat to the surrounding area - one reason Erbium is preferred to CO2 lasers.
This controlled treatment triggers the skin’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production and encouraging fresh, healthy skin to emerge.
Known for its accuracy and gentler recovery, the Erbium laser is ideal for treating wrinkles, lines, sun damage, and uneven texture. As the skin renews, it becomes noticeably smoother, clearer, and more radiant.
Laser Skin Resurfacing: at a glance
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This is usually considered a deep treatment, but laser procedures can range a lot - from extremely deep and intense to very, very light. The deeper treatments tend to produce more substantial and dramatic results, but are associated with longer healing times.
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Non-surgical, performed in the clinic.
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Usually 30 to 60 minutes. Laser procedures can vary from not painful at all to very painful. The deeper laser treatments are typically given with at least topical numbing cream and sometimes with numbing injections (like at the dentist office).
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Laser procedures are considered very safe, especially if performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Redness, swelling, itching, peeling, and discomfort are common temporary side effects. Complications are rare but can occur.
Skin discoloration: This can include both hyperpigmentation (darkening) and hypopigmentation (lightening) of the treated area.
Infection: There's a slight risk of bacterial infection after the procedure.
Scarring: While extremely rare, scarring is possible - especially with very deep treatments.
Reactivation of cold sores: If you have a history of cold sores, they may reactivate around the mouth after treatment. This can be prevented with medication.
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At home. Downtime will depend on the intensity and exact type of laser treatment. Recovery can range from 3-7 days for a lighter treatment to several weeks for deep treatments.
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During the healing period you’ll need to rest by avoiding strenuous exercise - think staycation. You’ll be able to perform your everyday activities (eating, bathing, light chores). Walking around your neighborhood (10-15 minutes) at an easy pace is encouraged. It will be important to avoid direct sun exposure and wear sun protection.
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Depending on the exact laser, you can notice an initial improvement in a few days or weeks after the procedure. The most significant improvement happens over time as your skin continues to produce new collagen. It can take up to 3-6 months to see the full results after laser skin resurfacing.
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Depending on a patient’s individual concerns, this treatment can be combined with many other options including Botox, fillers, and BroadBand Light (BBL).
Keep in mind this is general information about a typical or usual experience. Individual experiences can vary.
Is It Right for Me?
Laser resurfacing is ideal for patients with:
Fine to moderate wrinkles
Acne scarring
Sunspots or uneven pigmentation
Dull or rough skin texture
We carefully assess skin tone and medical history to determine candidacy—especially for patients with darker skin tones, where alternative settings or modalities may be advised.
How does it compare?
Deep lines & wrinkles: 5 stars
Texture, fine lines, pores, acne scars: 5 stars
Tone, elasticity (collage induction): 4 stars
Brightening, color correction, evenness: 3 stars
Downtime: days, weeks, or even months
0 = no effect. 1 star = minimal change. 5 stars = maximal treatment effect
Pricing & Membership Benefits
Laser Facial Treatments are available as a single service or as part of our membership packages.
Members receive preferred pricing and priority scheduling — making consistent skincare easier and more affordable.