CO2 Laser Resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing is a non-surgical procedure that can improve the overall appearance of your skin and diminish discoloration and the signs of aging.   Our surgeons utilize CO2RE technology to effectively treat the skin’s surface, middle and deep dermal levels in addition to performing traditional CO2 resurfacing.

Fractional laser technology is non-invasive because it specifically targets the skin that needs to be treated while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. For this reason, the recovery period is faster with less downtime.

Ablative laser skin resurfacing delivers an intense wavelength of light to the skin removing the outer layers of aged or sun damaged skin. In addition, the laser stimulates the underlying skin, resulting in collagen formation and an improvement in wrinkles. As the treated skin heals following the procedure, new skin forms that is smoother and tighter.

At Renaissance Plastic Surgery, we have performed numerous CO2 laser resurfacing treatments, either as an adjunct procedure to surgery or on its own.

After a thorough examination of your skin, we will discuss what you can expect from your CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser treatment.

CO2 lasers are used to treat:

• Fine to moderate wrinkles
• Liver spots or age spots
• Uneven skin tone
• Sun-damaged skin
• Acne or chickenpox scars

What can CO2 Laser Resurfacing correct?

CO2 Laser Resurfacing can:

• Lighten hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, brown spots, freckles, and melasma
• Improve sun damage
• Smooth scars, such as acne scars
• Reduce facial redness
• Improve fine lines and wrinkles

This procedure can be performed on the face, neck, chest, arms, or hands. Many people use it to lighten sun spots on these areas of the body, as well as smooth crepey skin that is often found on the neck and chest.

What happens during CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

A topical anesthetic will be applied, and sedation (by mouth or possibly IV) can be used to relax you. The actual treatment lasts only about a half hour, but you will need to be at our office for a period of time for the anesthetic. You will also need someone to drive you home, just as after a surgical procedure.

You may require more than one treatment spaced 3-6 months apart in order to lighten hyperpigmentation or smooth scars/crepey skin as much as possible. To maintain results and combat new lines and wrinkles, each CO2 laser patient will receive a post-laser skin care package.

What can you expect after CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

After the carbon dioxide laser treatment, your skin will feel much like a sunburn. This discomfort and redness subsides within a few days, after which your skin will look smoother and brighter.

Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing right for you?

The CO2 laser is not recommended for those with darker skins, as it might cause hypopigmentation. After examining your skin and learning your aesthetic goals, we can advise whether the procedure would be advantageous for you.

Contact our office today for a consultation to discuss CO2 Laser Resurfacing.