What’s the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your face, neck, and chest in one treatment? If it’s fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, scars, or stretch marks that plague you, the answer is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing. Carbon dioxide lasers (CO2 lasers) have been around for decades and therefore have a long history of safety and proven results. One treatment using the CO2 laser can drastically improve the appearance of skin.
Laser resurfacing is one of the most effective and efficient ways to correct and treat damaged or aged skin. By using highly-specialized lasers that can be adjusted to suit each treatment condition, your skin will be revitalized as dead and damaged skin cells are removed, and collagen is stimulated to rebuild tissue from the inside out.
Since we use the best laser skin resurfacing techniques, the treatment can be utilized for an array of different conditions. It can reduce and drastically improve the appearance of lines, wrinkles, scars, and age spots.
We can safely treat the skin on the face, neck, and chest. CO2 laser settings can be adjusted, but we may recommend a series of Fraxel laser treatments for patients with darker skin types rather than CO2.
After the skin has been cleaned, we will apply a topical anesthetic cream to numb the area to ensure that you are completely comfortable during the procedure. Once the medication has set, we will wipe clean the medication and place laser shields over your eyes. The laser session will take approximately 30-45 minutes for a complete treatment of your face and a portion of your neck. Once the treatment is complete, we will apply a medicated balm to moisturize and promote healing.
We perform this procedure under sedation in our modern, state-of-the-art surgical suite for more extensive resurfacing, such as on severely sun-damaged or wrinkled skin. This will ensure a more effective and comfortable experience. Once the treatment is complete, your skin will be soothed with a combination of Regenica and antibiotic ointments. Proper care for your skin during the recovery period is essential to prevent any healing process complications.
Dr. Rice has found that epidermal growth factors in Regenica significantly improve recovery rates for patients who have undergone laser resurfacing treatment. This topical product is highly recommended to all patients, especially those that have chosen laser skin resurfacing.
The recovery period for any laser resurfacing is largely dependent upon the amount of treatment that you need and the severity of your situation. For mild treatments, your healing period should last approximately 2 weeks, and that includes time away from work. In addition, it is suggested that you avoid using makeup for 10-12 days and abstain from exercise for 3-4 weeks.
Laser resurfacing is a very patient-friendly procedure that is available and appropriate for most patients looking to renew damaged skin surfaces. If you have skin that is damaged or aged, you are likely a perfect candidate for laser skin resurfacing. Our medical staff will ensure that all of your questions will be answered and that your procedure is tailored to your needs and concerns.
Yes! As with any medical or cosmetic procedure, the most important thing you can do is make sure you see a licensed and trained medical professional. Your appointment will include a discussion of your medical history, and the treatment site will be thoroughly examined as well. This not only ensures that you are getting the most effective treatment but that you understand the minor risks and complications that may pertain to your individual case.
As with most high-level forms of skin treatment, the results are often significant and very noticeable. Whether you are treating damaged skin, wrinkles, or anything in between, you can expect to see a significant improvement, not only in your target areas but in your overall facial complexion. There will be permanent improvements to your skin, and if a proper skincare regimen is followed, your results should last for ten years or more.
To view more before & afters, visit our Laser Skin Resurfacing Before & After page.
Whereas a CO2 laser treatment is fully ablative, meaning all of the skin cells are targeted and removed, Fraxel lasers use fractionated energy to target 25-40% of skin cells at a time. This type of laser procedure is gentler and requires less downtime, but it will take a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. We offer both options in our office and will be able to recommend the best treatment for you after an assessment of your skin and discussion of your goals.
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