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Patients will experience improvements in the tone, texture, and appearance of the skin in areas treated with fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing. The Fractional CO2 laser system creates results with the proven effectiveness of an ablative laser treatment but with considerably less downtime and discomfort.
The fractional CO2 laser is a great combination procedure commonly performed with many facial rejuvenation procedures such as upper eyelid lift, facelift and neck lift.
Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing is one of the most effective non-surgical and non-invasive treatments available. Traditional CO2 laser ablation treats 100% of the skin which results in a lengthy recovery time. In contrast, the fractional CO2 works by creating tiny columns of thermal injury leaving the adjacent skin intact. Healing occurs from the deeper structures as well as from the adjacent untouched skin. This not only decreases healing time, it also gives a powerful boost to the skin’s natural healing and collagen producing process. It safely improves skin tone, texture and quality. The appearance of fine lines are reduced and pigmentation is improved.
This FDA-approved treatment is ideal for:
At PERK plastic surgery, patient comfort is our number one priority. Fractional CO2 laser can be done in the office as a stand alone procedure or in the operating room when done in combination with other surgical procedures. For patients undergoing the treatment in the office, treatment time is about 30 minutes with 60 minutes of topical numbing prior to the treatment. Oral pain medication and nerve blocks are also given to further improve patient comfort. We take every precaution to ensure that the procedure is virtually pain-free. Most patients find fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing to be well worth any mild discomfort they may experience during and after treatment.
Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is more often used to treat the face, but it may be used in all of these treatment areas:
Most light-complexion patients who find themselves experiencing undesirable changes in the look and feel of their skin are excellent candidates for this treatment. For patients with a naturally darker skin tone, this is not an ideal procedure as it may change the skin’s pigmentation. Some patients choose to undergo laser skin resurfacing as a stand alone treatment, while others elect to have the treatment in combination with a facelift, or with dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers.
Treatment regimens are individually tailored to address each patient’s unique needs and concerns. While some need just a single treatment, others may require a series of treatments spaced a couple months apart for optimal results. Your custom regimen will be tailored to your individual skin type. Results will last a varying amount of time depending on your genetics and daily habits such as sun exposure, skin care, and other environmental factors.
Prior to your treatment, you will consult with one of our providers who will assess your specific anatomy and skin type. A customized procedure plan will be formulated. During the consultation, you will also have the opportunity to address your questions and concerns.
On the day of your treatment, it is best to wear loose and comfortable clothing. A family member or friend should be available to drive you home after the procedure.
Patients should expect mild to moderate redness and swelling, and some crusting of the skin in treated areas, as aged and sun-damaged skin sloughs off in order to reveal the healthier and more youthful skin beneath. The full recovery process typically takes 5-7 days. Some redness of the skin may continue beyond seven days as the deep tissue continues to repair itself. You will also be provided with postoperative recovery suggestions, skin care routines and guidelines to make your recovery a smooth experience.
