You may be asking about the benefits of Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing. Youthful Reflections wants to give you some information on this procedure and how it might help you.
Why Might This Be Right for You?
If you have any of the following, you might consider the benefits of CO2 Laser Resurfacing:
- Aging changes of the skin
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Loss of facial volume
- Wrinkles resulting from repeated facial expressions
- Damage from the sun
- Brown spots and red spots
Your skin may be looking more aged and coarse. You might even have pits or scars remaining from bouts of acne.
What Does Laser Resurfacing Do?
Fractional CO2 Laser treatment results in a smoother and more youthful appearance to your skin. The outermost layers of the skin are vaporized by the laser; the result is a surface of the skin that is smoother and more homogeneous in pigmentation. The coloration of the skin is thus more even.
This procedure also tightens and restores elasticity to the skin by stimulating collagen production within the skin dermis.
How is it Performed?
Light sedation is typically used in combination with topical anesthetic cream and/or local anesthetic injections to relax the patient and anesthetize the skin for the procedure. The procedure itself usually takes from 20 to 30 minutes. Afterward, for two or three days, there will be some light crusting of the skin, followed by some pinkness or redness of the skin, similar to what is experienced with a sunburn. The redness typically is resolved in one to three weeks; this will depend on the laser settings as well as the individual.
Within three to five days of the procedure, you will be able to return to normal activities. Makeup is often used after the first week to hide any residual redness.
How Many Treatments Are Required?
Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing is typically performed in a single treatment. However, additional treatment may be necessary for individuals with severe wrinkling and sun damaged skin.
Some Tips
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery recommends having your treatment during the months when daytime hours are shorter and you are indoors more. If you are outside, you should be using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
If you have darker skin, you may still be a candidate for this procedure. Different types of lasers are often used for lighter-toned African American, Hispanic or Asian skin tones. The CO2 laser has a long wavelength and has been used on darker skin with the appropriate settings. A consultation with Youthful Reflections can answer any questions about whether Fractional CO2 is right for you.
Certain medications and conditions can affect how your skin reacts to treatment, so you should always be upfront in discussing your medical history during your initial consultation. For example, acne medications can lead to poor healing.
It is also recommended to stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior to and after your procedure in order to provide your body with optimal healing results.
Resurfacing with Fractional CO2 lasers should be done by a highly trained professional in order to produce the desired results. Experience, qualifications and training are important considerations.
How Long Will It Last?
The longevity of results will depend on multiple factors, including the patient’s efforts towards skin protection from the sun, as well as factors such as smoking, general health, changes in weight, etc. You might see your results last for years if you protect your skin, by wearing wide-brimmed hats and applying the right sunscreen, avoid excessive sun and smoke exposure, and follow a healthy diet and skin care regimen.
Youthful Reflections has the experience and expertise to ensure your procedure is done correctly with the best results. Some of the other treatments that we offer include:
Face Procedures
- Facelift
- Brow Lift
- Upper and Lower Eyelid Lift
- Rhinoplasty
- Chin and Cheek Implants
- Fat Transfer
Non- Surgical Face Procedures
- Fillers and Injectables
- Peri-Oral Rejuvenation
- Renew Procedure & Liquid Lift
Our office and Dr. Boggess will work with you to provide customized treatment with state-of-the-art technology. Give us a call to schedule your free consultation to find out how you can be a more beautiful and refreshed you.
Please note: Individual results may vary, as not all individuals are the same.
