Plasma Resurfacing

Portrait Plasma is a one-of-a kind, non-invasive, in-office technology clinically proven to treat unhealthy signs of aging often accelerated by sun exposure. Plasma treats 100% of the skin; it stimulates a natural response producing healthier regeneration of the skin. Different from lasers which only target specific components of the skin, physicians and patients feel that with plasma’s unique approach results are maximized. This is especially important when treating acne scars, all wrinkles, skin laxity and pre-cancerous lesions. Unlike other procedures on the market (Co2, erbium, factional lasers) Portrait Plasma offers less downtime, little or no risk or hypo-pigmentation, scarring, or discoloration.

Portrait Plasma Resurfacing harnesses the power to deliver dramatic skincare results without the risk or downtime associated with laser procedures. The hand-piece delivers nitrogen plasma energy that works both at and below the surface of the skin to modify its architecture and generate new collagen for up to two years. Portrait Plasma Resurfacing has been proven to treat fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, pre-cancerous lesions, dyschromia, and tighten skin. It also improves pore size, elasticity, and tone and texture of the face and body.

What is Plasma Skin Resurfacing?

Plasma skin regeneration is an exciting new technology that uses plasma energy to rejuvenate the skin. There is only one plasma skin resurfacing device commercially available. The Portrait® is FDA cleared for use in treating facial and non-facial rhytids (wrinkles), superficial skin lesions, actinic keratoses, seborrheic keratoses, and viral papilomata.  

How does this technology work?

Plasma resurfacing involves the creation of high energy plasma, which is rapidly delivered to the skin. This minimally invasive, non-ablative skin rejuvenation tool delivers heat to the under surface of the skin resulting in skin tightening and new collagen development. The outer epidermis of the skin is eventually shed, while the new skin is smoother, less wrinkled, and more uniform in color. Contrary to laser resurfacing, plasma skin regeneration provides rapid healing with minimal pain and downtime, producing only mild redness for a few days. The depth of effectiveness of plasma resurfacing is determined by the amount of energy delivered per pulse.  

Who is a candidate for Plasma Resurfacing?

There are many ideal candidates for Portrait^®, including:

o        Individuals considering laser surgery, a face lift and/or plastic surgery

o        Individuals seeking to repair photo-damage and improve the appearance of age spots, or hyperpigmentation

o        Individuals seeking to remove pre-cancerous lesions

o        Individuals wanting to reduce the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles

o        Individuals wanting to tighten the skin

o        Individuals wanting to improve the overall skin tone and texture to recapture a youthful skin quality they have not enjoyed for years

o        Individuals wanting to reduce acne scarring *

*Pilot study on acne scars showed significant improvement; expanded study is currently under investigation. 

Upon consultation Dr. Michael Sullivan would recommend the treatment options which would best address your concerns.

What kind of improvements can I expect from Plasma Resurfacing?

Plasma resurfacing will improve skin texture and tighten the skin at low energy levels. You should expect improvement with fine lines and pigment irregularities such as brown spots. Deeper lines and wrinkles are erased at higher energy levels and the skin color becomes more uniform. 

What does the procedure feel like and how long will it take?

Plasma resurfacing is relatively painless at low energy levels. At higher energy levels you will experience a sense of heat. A topical anesthetic cream and an oral sedative are adequate to make the procedure comfortable. 

How many treatments will I need?

Dr. Sullivan will recommend an appropriate regimen for you. Typically this will vary from 1 to 3 treatments depending on the area treated, your skin condition, and the level of improvement you are expecting.

What should I expect following my treatment?

With plasma resurfacing at lower energy levels there will be some mild redness and flaking of the skin for 24-48 hours. Make-up can be applied and you can return to your normal activities the very next day. At higher energy levels of plasma resurfacing, the outer layer of the skin browns and is shed 3-5 days after treatment. Mild redness may persist for 7-10 days. Makeup can easily be applied 7 days after the treatment and patients will be able to resume normal activities at this time.

How soon will I see a difference and how long will it last?

With plasma resurfacing you should expect to see improvement immediately. Portrait® stimulates a natural process of regeneration which takes months. Clinical studies demonstrate the results will continue to improve for up to a year after the procedure. Results may vary by intensity level but are expected to last 2-3 years. 

What is the next step?

If you are interested exploring facial resurfacing options, call The Sullivan Centre, central Ohio's only free standing ambulatory surgical facility dedicated to cosmetic surgery at (614) 436-8888.