Fractional CO2 Laser Rejuvenation

The CO₂ laser has been used for more than 25 years in the aesthetic industry for treatment of conditions such as fine and deep wrinkles, scars of various origins, uneven pigmentation and dilated pores. When the CO₂ beam of light comes in contact with the epidermis it heats and vaporizes the skin tissue, instantly removing the superficial layers of the skin, scars and wrinkles while smoothing out the surface of the skin. The skin remodeling occurs with new skin and collagen growth.

The fractional CO₂ laser gives the physician more control to regulate the depth of penetration and the amount of heat delivered by the beam. The high speed scanner, driven by a patented pending algorithm divides the treatment area into four quadrants or “fractions” and skips the beam from quadrant to quadrant so that each strike is separated by the longest possible interval. This process is repeated until the entire area is treated. Dividing energy this way allows maximum time for thermal cooling of the tissue, less pain for the patient and faster recovery! Compared to traditional resurfacing of the past this is a big step in technology for the patient and the physician!

The fractional CO₂ laser delivers more results in a 30-minute treatment than many competitors can accomplish in 3 treatments for less discomfort, downtime and cost.

We apply topical anesthetic and occasionally local anesthetic to certain areas to maximize comfort. Oral sedation is available for those with drivers, although this is not necessary. Discomfort during the procedure varies according to the level of treatment individual pain tolerance. At most, minor temporary discomfort, similar to a sunburn, may be experienced.

Erythema (redness of skin); the laser-treated areas have a distinctive redness representing increased blood flow due to the growth of the superficial tissue and collagen. It will gradually fade during the first few days. Inflammation (swelling); Treatment with the MiXto System presents a minimal amount of swelling that can last up to 24 hours. Hyperpigmentation (tanning); This occurs after the third day of the procedure but then begins to shed and reveal younger healthy looking skin. A personal interview and clinical examination will be conducted to obtain relevant facts about your medical and dermatologic history, and any medications you are currently taking or have taken in the past. If you are prone to cold sores, you need to ask your doctor for an antivirius prescription before the treatment. Fractional CO₂ treatment has been proven safe for the face, neck, chest and hands. The laser is a tool and when used correctly the risk of complications is exceedingly rare.

Depending on the intensity of the treatment, patients can be ready to go back to work the next day, but it depends on the patient and their lifestyle. Typical downtime is 5-10 days. See a typical patient’s recovery time.

The patient is red and can be swollen the next day. On the second, third and fourth day the patient is peeling and can experience a little itchiness typical to a sunburn. During this time, the skin peel revealing new rejuvenated skin with improved texture. Your skin will still look pink with mild swellling to up to 2 weeks.

Right away! When we are doing the procedure you can immediately see the skin contract and shrink. The patient will really see the benefits by the time the skin is completely peeled and will continue to see results for up to six months with new collagen regeneration that “plumps” up the skin.

It is most commonly used on the face but can be used on neck, chest, arms and hands.

Fractional CO₂ laser rejuvenation treatments are generally $3500 for a one-time full-face treatment, which includes all visits, surgeon’s fee and facility fee. Prices may very with smaller or additional areas.

You will see changes and improvements in the texture and quality of your skin for the first six months. After that you will continue the natural aging process. With proper skin care and sun-screen, your fractional laser treatment will last several years or more.

Men are very good candidates for laser procedures. In fact, men’s thicker skin heals much faster and with less redness than woman’s more delicate skin.

Common sense is the rule here. With suncsreen applied to the skin and a hat, patients can safely be under the sun relatively quickly, in most cases by the end of the first week. Of course, sun-bathing is strongly discouraged. The treated areas should be particularly well-protected with sunscreen until the pinkness is completely gone.

Patients can begin wearing makeup to cover the treated areas 4-7 days after the procedure.