Laser Skin Rejuvenation in Pittsburgh

Transform tired, aging skin with advanced laser technology designed to restore clarity, smoothness, and youthful radiance at Leong Aesthetics in Pittsburgh.

Rejuvenate Your Skin

Leong Aesthetics offers laser skin rejuvenation in Pittsburgh using the advanced Phoenix CO2 Laser, a fractionated technology that resurfaces damaged skin while stimulating deep collagen production for lasting improvement. Under the expert supervision of Dr. Paul Leong, a double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon trained at Yale University School of Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh, our team delivers precise, physician-directed treatments that honor your unique skin while achieving remarkable transformation.

What Is Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

Laser skin rejuvenation is a non-surgical treatment that uses focused light energy to improve the appearance of damaged, aging, or scarred skin. The Phoenix CO2 Laser at Leong Aesthetics delivers controlled energy deep into the dermis, the inner layer of skin, to stimulate collagen growth and promote cellular renewal.

Unlike older, more aggressive ablative lasers that remove entire layers of skin, the Phoenix CO2 uses fractionated technology, meaning it creates tiny columns of treated tissue surrounded by healthy skin. This approach accelerates healing, reduces downtime, and minimizes the risk of complications while still delivering powerful resurfacing results.

What Skin Concerns Can Laser Rejuvenation Address?

Laser skin rejuvenation in Pittsburgh with the Phoenix CO2 is effective for treating a wide range of cosmetic concerns:

Fine lines and wrinkles: Smooths crow's feet, smile lines, and forehead creases.
Acne scars: Reduces the appearance of pitted or textured scarring.
Sun damage: Fades age spots, sunspots, and uneven pigmentation.
Rough skin texture: Refines pores and creates a smoother surface.
Loss of firmness: Stimulates collagen for improved elasticity and tone.
Uneven skin tone: Evens out dyschromias and improves overall complexion.

The Mayo Clinic notes that laser resurfacing can significantly improve skin appearance and texture when performed by trained professionals using techniques tailored to each patient's skin type and goals.

Benefits of Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Choosing laser skin rejuvenation at Leong Aesthetics offers multiple advantages:

Comprehensive improvement: Addresses multiple skin concerns in a single treatment.
Collagen stimulation: Encourages long-term skin quality improvement through natural healing.
Customizable treatment: Settings adjusted to match your skin type, concerns, and desired results.
Fractionated technology: Less downtime and lower risk compared to traditional ablative lasers.
Long-lasting results: With proper skincare and sun protection, results can endure for years.
Physician supervision: Every treatment is overseen by Dr. Leong, ensuring medical expertise and safety.

Are You a Candidate for Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

You may be an excellent candidate for laser skin rejuvenation in Pittsburgh if you:

Have fair to moderate skin tone (Fitzpatrick types I–III)
Are bothered by fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, or sun damage
Want to improve overall skin texture and tone
Are in good general health with realistic expectations
Are not currently pregnant or nursing
Do not have active skin infections or immunosuppressive disorders
Are willing to follow pre- and post-treatment care instructions

Why Choose Leong Aesthetics for Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

Here's what sets our practice apart:

Elite training and credentials: Dr. Leong completed his medical degree at Yale University School of Medicine, followed by seven years of specialized training in head, face, and neck surgery at the University of Pittsburgh, a program consistently ranked among the nation's top five in otolaryngology. He furthered his expertise through fellowships in Advanced Oncologic Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Oregon Health Sciences University.
Boutique, personalized experience: Unlike corporate franchise medspas where standardized protocols may take precedence over individualized technique, our practice offers customized treatments rooted in Pittsburgh's local community.
Hand-picked team: Every team member is selected for their skill, empathy, and commitment to patient satisfaction, reflecting Dr. Leong's unwavering dedication to safety, transparency, and natural-looking results.
Rewards Program: Earn points with every non-surgical treatment that can be redeemed toward future surgical procedures, a thoughtful approach that supports long-term aesthetic planning and continuity of care.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Consultation and Cost

Your day begins with a comprehensive consultation at Leong Aesthetics. Dr. Leong or our trained aesthetician will examine your skin, discuss your concerns, review your medical history, and explain how laser rejuvenation can help you achieve your goals. We'll create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin type and desired outcomes.

Procedure Steps

On the day of your treatment:

Preparation: A numbing cream containing lidocaine is applied to the treatment area approximately one hour before the procedure to ensure your comfort.
Laser application: The Phoenix CO2 Laser is carefully passed over the treatment area. Settings such as energy level, pulse duration, and density are adjusted based on your personalized plan.
Treatment duration: Depending on the size of the area being treated, the procedure can take anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours.
Immediate aftercare: Your skin will be cleansed and moisturized, and you'll receive detailed post-treatment instructions.

Most patients describe the sensation during treatment as warm pulses with mild discomfort. The numbing cream significantly reduces any pain, and our team takes care to ensure you're comfortable throughout the process.

Recovery and Results Timeline

Recovery from laser skin rejuvenation typically requires about 8 days of downtime. Here's what to expect:

Day 1: Your skin looks sunburned and feels tight. Cool compresses help ease discomfort.
Day 2: Skin appears bronzed and darker as the healing process begins.
Day 3: Peeling starts, and the area may feel itchy. A vinegar-water solution can help relieve itching.
Day 5: Peeling subsides. Mineral makeup can be applied if needed.
Day 6–7: You should be back to your baseline appearance.
Day 8–9: Redness typically resolves.

Please note that recovery for the neck area may take longer, approximately 2–3 weeks for bronzing and peeling to complete.

Post-Treatment Care

To ensure the best possible results and minimize complications:

Keep skin moist: Apply occlusive ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor 2–3 times daily to retain moisture.
Gentle cleansing: Use a mild cleanser and avoid harsh scrubbing.
Sun protection: Wear a quality SPF and avoid direct sun exposure.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet.
Avoid heat and dryness: Refrain from hot showers, saunas, and excessive heat.
Manage discomfort: Take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen as needed for pain relief.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

To optimize your results and reduce the risk of complications, it's important to prepare your skin before laser treatment:

Avoid sun exposure, chemical peels, and Retinoid use for at least 3–4 weeks prior
Discuss current medications with Dr. Leong. Certain medications, like Accutane, can adversely affect results
Discontinue blood-thinning agents such as Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, and alcohol before treatment
Fill any prescribed medications, such as antiviral medication, to prevent potential outbreaks

FAQs

Will laser skin rejuvenation permanently make my skin more sensitive to the sun?

While your skin will be more sensitive immediately after treatment during the healing phase, this is temporary. However, maintaining diligent sun protection with quality SPF is essential both before and after laser rejuvenation to protect your investment and prevent future damage.

Can I combine laser skin rejuvenation with other treatments like BOTOX or fillers?

Yes, laser rejuvenation can be combined with injectables, though timing matters. Dr. Leong typically recommends spacing treatments appropriately, often performing injectables either before or after laser treatment has fully healed.

What happens if I have a history of cold sores?

Laser treatment can trigger cold sore outbreaks in patients with a history of herpes simplex virus. This is why Dr. Leong often prescribes antiviral medication before treatment as a preventative measure. It's crucial to disclose any history of cold sores during your consultation.

Can laser rejuvenation remove deep acne scars completely?

Laser treatment can significantly improve the appearance of acne scars by stimulating collagen remodeling and resurfacing damaged tissue. While deep scars may not disappear entirely, most patients experience noticeable smoothing and reduction in scar depth and visibility after treatment.

What's the difference between the Phoenix CO2 laser and other laser treatments?

The Phoenix CO2 is a fractionated ablative laser, meaning it creates controlled micro-injuries while leaving healthy tissue intact for faster healing. This differs from older full-field CO2 lasers (which had 4+ weeks of downtime) and non-ablative lasers (which require multiple sessions for gradual results).

Schedule Your Consultation

Schedule your consultation today and learn how the Phoenix CO2 Laser can transform your skin.