CO2, or fractional laser skin resurfacing, is a safe and gentle alternative to traditional laser resurfacing. It is very effective for resolving cosmetic problems which are normally difficult to treat including:
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Aging skin
- Sun damaged skin
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines, especially around the mouth and eyes.
- Birthmarks
- Enlarged Oil Glands
- Warts
- Liver Spots
CO2 resurfacing uses a very narrow column of light, targeting and destroying microscopic areas while leaving healthy cells surrounding the destroyed area intact. This allows for quick healing and reduced pain. The healthy cells left behind aid in the healing process. Collagen production is stimulated, the skin tightens and pigmentation is normalized.
How does CO2 Laser work?
At The Miami Center For Plastic Surgery our CO2 Laser Treatment produces thousands of tiny but deep columns of treatment in your skin, known as “microscopic treatment zones”. This treatment eliminates old epidermal pigmented cells. For every microscopic zone the laser targets and treats intensively, it leaves the surrounding tissue unaffected and intact.
This “fractional” treatment allows the skin to heal much faster than if the entire area were treated at once, using the body’s natural healing process to create new, healthy tighter tissue to replace skin imperfections.
What to expect
With the CO2 laser typically two to five sessions are required but even just one treatment offers very noticeable results. Miami Plastic Surgeon Dr. Gabriel Salloum has found that this gradual process is safer and healthier for your skin, and involves only mild discomfort during the procedure.
One Hour prior to your treatment you will have numbing cream placed on the areas being treated (so plan on arriving early). Cold air will be used during the treatment for even more added comfort. After your Miami CO2 Laser treatment, the area treated tends to experience some mild swelling for about two days, followed by about a week of mild to moderate redness and peeling.
After care
Peeling: Your skin will naturally and vigorously exfoliate as new skin replaces dead tissue. Flaking is similar to that of minor sunburn, but without the associated pain. Use of a moisturizer will mask the appearance of flaking. This process is normal.
Sunscreen: Be sure to use sunscreen at least twice daily to protect your skin from sun exposure during both the healing phase and for several months after treatment. Apply a moisturizing sun block with an SPF of at least 30-plus. For added protection, use wide-brimmed hats when in direct sunlight.
Over the following weeks and months, the body repairs the deeper dermal tissues that have been affected by the CO2 treatment, producing longer beneficial changes associated with a healthy, youthful appearance.
The results
The results of CO2 can last a lifetime. Final results should be assessed at 6 months since all treatments stimulate collagen production and remodeling.
