Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Carbon Dioxide Fractional Laser Resurfacing Technique
Patients with advanced sun damage of their skin and severe scarring do best with the carbon dioxide fractional laser resurfacing technique. In this case the surgeon has a great deal of control in the removal of wrinkles and evening out pigment and texture changes. The results can be very dramatic. The post operative recovery time varies from seven to fourteen days. During this healing period people must avoid sun exposure because the skin is quite sensitive. Ablaltive laser resurfacing is the most advanced care for severely damaged skin (texture changes, irregular pigmentation, deep wrinkles), and scars. If other components such as dilated blood vessels are present, additional laser systems are used in the treatment regime.
Quick Facts: Carbon Dioxide Fractional Laser Resurfacing
| Description | Carbon dioxide fractional laser is used to remove the upper layers of the skin and reach into the dermis to improve scars, fine lines and wrinkles and to treat irregular pigmentation. |
| Average cost | $2,500.00 – $5,500.00 depending on the extent of the area treated |
| Length of Procedure | 30 minutes to an hour and a half |
| In/outpatient | Outpatient |
| Anesthesia | General |
| Recovery Time | Return to work within two weeks. |
| Treatment Frequency | May be repeated if necessary |
| Risks | Burns, scarring, pigmentation changes, persistent redness, infection, activation of herpes virus infections (cold sores). |
| Duration of results | Long-lasting, but aging will affect results. Sun protection is essential to maintain results. |
COMMENT
The above treatment options achieve quality improvement of the skin. In the early stages of gravity pull, nonsurgical skin tightening using the Titan can be helpful. Gravity changes which result in redundant skin require re-draping surgical procedures and deep muscle pull creases require Botox or dermal fillers. Facial veins and deep pigmented lesions require treatment with target specific lasers.
Many patients start with the milder treatments and eventually move on to the more effective, aggressive treatments for aging changes. One treatment does not preclude the use of others.
Many patients begin with medicated creams, then move through the spectrum of microdermabrasions, non-ablative and semi-ablative laser resurfacing and then on to ablative laser resurfacing at a later date as aging changes continue to progress. Some choose the synergistic benefits of combined therapies such as the 3D Rejuvenation Program. Others are happy to stay with the least aggressive options. What might be good for one person may not be good for another or may not be good at a certain period of time in their life. Whatever treatment is chosen, it’s important to reflect on the procedure, alternatives, risks and limitations, and the experience of the surgeon.
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