Fractional CO2 Resurfacing
Fractional means that only a fraction of the skin surface is exposed to the laser beam, leaving untreated skin around each micro spot, making this a safer treatment than traditional CO2 laser treatments of the past.
The benefits of the laser beam expand under the surface of the skin and stimulate collagen production. Patients with melasma or skin types IV, V or VI, will need to use bleaching creams six weeks prior to and following the CO2 laser treatment. During treatment there is a warm sensation on the skin. Topical numbing will be applied prior to the treatment to minimize discomfort.
The significant results of this procedure continue to build for six months following as fine lines continue to diminish and collagen continues to build.
The following pricing options are available for the fractional CO2 laser:
- Full Face
- Neck (jawline to clavicle)
- Eyes
Risks and Complications:
Although complications following laser surgery are infrequent, there are some risks associated with the fractional lasers. These include mild to moderate discomfort, redness or swelling at the treated area, sun sensitivity, skin sensitivity, blistering, swelling and scarring, and herpes simplex virus (cold sore) reactivation (tell the doctor if you have frequent episodes) can also occur. Alterations of skin pigmentation and/or texture; hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) may be reversed with bleaching creams; hypopigmenation (lightening of the skin) may be permanent.
Healing time varies with each individual and the intensity of treatment. Immediately following the treatment, the treated area may appear as a red discoloration, have edema (swelling) which may last two hours or longer, or may feel tight or tender to the touch. The redness, swelling, tightness or tenderness is normal. The redness or erythema may last 5 to 21 days on the face, 7 to 30 days on the neck and 10 to 60 days on the chest and hands. Hydrating moisturizer may be used, such as CeraVe, Aquaphor or Vaseline. Makeup can be worn over the treated area as long as there are no blisters. Improper care of the treated area may increase the chance of scarring or skin textural changes.
As this is ablative technology, this laser procedure is performed only by our physicians or physicians’ assistants.