CO2 Laser Resurfacing

During CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser resurfacing treatments, pulses of laser energy are absorbed by water stored in skin cells, causing the cells to vaporize. This removes the superficial layers of the skin (the epidermis), revealing the undamaged skin cells below them. As a result, creases, sun spots, and other complexion anomalies are improved or eliminated.

Laser resurfacing treatments can achieve impressive results, both aesthetically and therapeutically. They are appropriate for patients with light to medium skin tones.

CO2 laser resurfacing treatments can improve the following:

• Non-cancerous, cancerous, and pre-cancerous lesions
• Mild to moderate trauma scars
• Age spots and sun damage
• Mild to moderate wrinkles
• Common viral warts
• Benign brownish skin lesions
• Plaque psoriasis lesions
• Melasma (patches of discoloration)
• Enlarged or congested pores
• Mild to moderate acne scars

Patients with active acne flare-ups or areas of broken skin may need to delay treatment. Patients must have realistic expectations, and more than one session may be required to achieve the desired goal.

A consultation for CO2 laser resurfacing will be necessary to review the patient’s medical history and examine their skin. This will ensure that they are ideal candidates for treatment. During this consultation, patients are encouraged to ask any questions they may have.

The treatment areas will be swabbed with an antiseptic, and patients will be given protective goggles. A local anesthetic will be used to numb the treatment areas; sedation may also be utilized in more complex cases.

Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the laser therapy will begin. The feeling of the laser beam pulses has been compared to the sensation of a mild rubber-band snap. The whole treatment process is typically less than two hours.

Around two weeks of recovery time will be required following CO2 laser resurfacing. Redness, swelling, and skin irritation comparable to a mild sunburn may be experienced for a week to ten days.

The temporary after-effects following treatment are usually tolerated with ice packs, cool compresses, and non-prescription pain medication. Following all instructions regarding activities, skincare products, sun exposure, and hot showers/baths is essential.

The cost of CO2 laser resurfacing varies and is determined by the customized treatment plan created for each patient. Detailed price information is included in the recommendations provided during the consultation. Our billing team members will happily answer questions regarding forms of payment accepted.