CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is an innovative cosmetic procedure that has gained popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in rejuvenating the skin and improving various skin conditions. It has long been considered the industry’s ‘gold standard’ for skin resurfacing. To help you understand more about CO2 laser resurfacing, we've answered some commonly asked questions below:
​
What is CO2 laser resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to remove outer layers of damaged skin. The laser emits concentrated beams of light that vaporize the targeted skin cells, prompting the body's natural healing response. As the skin heals, new collagen forms, leading to the regeneration of healthier, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.
​
What skin conditions can be treated with CO2 laser resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing is commonly used to address a variety of skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. It can also improve the overall texture and tightness of the skin.
​
Is CO2 laser resurfacing painful?
CO2 laser resurfacing is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation, depending on the extent of the treatment. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure. However, some patients may experience a mild burning sensation or discomfort following the treatment, which can be managed with pain medications and topical creams.
​
Can CO2 laser resurfacing be done at the same time as cosmetic eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)?
Yes, CO2 laser resurfacing can be performed at the same time as a blepharoplasty. In fact, it is quite common for these two procedures to be combined to achieve comprehensive rejuvenation of the eyelids and the surrounding skin.
​
During a blepharoplasty, excess skin and/or fat may be removed from the eyelids to improve their appearance and address issues like sagging or puffiness. Concurrent CO2 laser resurfacing can help smooth out fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, improving the overall texture and tightness of the skin. By stimulating collagen production, CO2 laser resurfacing can also enhance the rejuvenation process, promoting the growth of healthier and more youthful-looking skin.
By performing both procedures together, patients can enjoy a more comprehensive and harmonious eyelid rejuvenation by addressing both the underlying structural concerns of the eyelids and improving the overall appearance and quality of the surrounding skin. Combining CO2 laser resurfacing with blepharoplasty allows for simultaneous treatment and recovery, minimizing downtime and providing more efficient results.
​
​
Which areas can be treated with CO2 laser resurfacing?
CO2 laser resurfacing can be used to treat various areas of the body, but it is commonly employed for facial rejuvenation. Some of the specific areas that can be effectively treated with CO2 laser resurfacing include:
​
Face: CO2 laser resurfacing can target the entire face to address concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, age spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. It can improve the overall texture and tightness of the facial skin, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Eyelids: The delicate skin around the eyes can benefit from CO2 laser resurfacing to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and tighten loose skin. This can enhance the results of eyelid surgery and provide comprehensive rejuvenation to the eye area.
​
Neck: CO2 laser resurfacing can be utilized to tighten and improve the texture of the skin on the neck, reducing the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and age spots. It helps to restore a more youthful and smoother neck contour.
​
Chest: CO2 laser resurfacing can be performed on the décolletage area of the chest, which is prone to developing sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone, particularly due to prolonged sun exposure and aging.
​
Hands: Aging can cause the skin on the hands to become thin, wrinkled, and develop age spots. CO2 laser resurfacing can effectively address these concerns, promoting collagen production and rejuvenating the skin on the hands.
​
How long does the recovery process take?
The recovery time after CO2 laser resurfacing can vary depending on the depth of the treatment and individual healing factors. Generally, it takes about one to two weeks for the skin to fully heal. During this time, patients may experience redness, swelling, and peeling. It's important to follow post-treatment instructions provided by our office to ensure optimal healing.
​
​
Are there any risks or side effects associated with CO2 laser resurfacing?
While CO2 laser resurfacing is considered a safe procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. These can include temporary redness, swelling, itching, scarring, changes in skin pigmentation, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. However, these side effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by following proper aftercare instructions.
​
​
How long do the results of CO2 laser resurfacing last?
The results of CO2 laser resurfacing are long-lasting. However, the natural aging process and external factors like sun exposure can gradually affect the quality of the skin over time. By practicing a good skincare routine and protecting the skin from sun damage, patients can prolong and maintain the benefits of CO2 laser resurfacing for years.
Who is NOT a candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing?
While CO2 laser resurfacing can provide significant benefits for many individuals, there are certain cases where it may not be suitable or may require careful consideration. Here are some examples of individuals who may not be ideal candidates for CO2 laser resurfacing:
​
Darker skin tones: CO2 laser resurfacing may pose a higher risk of pigmentation changes and uneven skin tone in individuals with darker skin tones, including those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent. Alternative treatment options that are better suited for darker skin types may be recommended.
​
Active skin infections or conditions: If you have an active skin infection, such as herpes simplex virus (cold sores), or certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis in the treatment area, CO2 laser resurfacing may not be suitable until the condition is resolved.
​
History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring: Individuals who have a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, which is an overgrowth of scar tissue, may be at an increased risk of developing excessive scarring after CO2 laser resurfacing. Alternative treatments should be considered in such cases.
Recent use of isotretinoin (Accutane): If you have taken isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past six to twelve months, CO2 laser resurfacing may not be recommended due to an increased risk of poor wound healing and adverse side effects.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals: CO2 laser resurfacing is generally not advised for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the baby and uncertainty regarding the effects of the procedure during these periods.
​
Which CO2 laser does Dr. Abboud use?
Dr. Abboud uses the Lumenis UltraPulse CO2 Laser. which is one of the most versatile skin resurfacing lasers. It is often considered the "top of the line" among CO2 lasers and the most powerful CO2 laser in aesthetic medicine. With the Ultrapulse laser, different levels of treatments can be achieved:
-
ActiveFX allows for maximum customization to superficially treat fine lines, skin laxity, texture, and dyschromia/pigmentation.
-
DeepFX is designed to treat deeper wrinkles, acnea scars, and cosmetic lesions, thus promoting collagen production.
-
TotalFX combines ActiveFX and DeepFX, treating both the surface layers of the skin and the deeper levels of the dermis. With this dual-depth laser treatment, patients will often notice impressive improvement in pigmentation, deep wrinkles, fine lines, scars and dermal lesions while stimulating long-term collagen production.
CONSULTATION FOR CO2 LASER SKIN RESURFACING
If you are considering CO2 laser skin resurfacing and would like to have an in-person consultation with Dr. Abboud, please contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to replace a medical consultation, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Each individual’s treatment and/or results will vary, and no guarantee is stated or implied by any photo or statement used on this website.