CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing in South Florida
What is CO2 laser?
CO2 laser skin resurfacing is used to treat wrinkles, scars, warts, birthmarks, enlarged oil glands on the nose (rhinophyma), skin cancer, and other conditions. The technique directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin. Laser skin resurfacing removes skin very precisely, layer by layer. This popular procedure is known by several other names, including laser abrasion, laser peel or laser vaporization.
How is this treatment performed?
CO2 laser resurfacing is performed on an outpatient basis, using local anesthesia (pain relief at the site of the procedure) in combination with orally- or intravenously-administered sedative medications. Wrinkles around the eyes, mouth or forehead may be treated individually, or a full-face laser abrasion may be performed. A partial-face laser abrasion takes 30 to 45 minutes and the full-face treatment takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
What can patients expect following treatment?
Following laser resurfacing, a sterile dressing is applied to the treatment sites. When the dressings are removed (usually after 1 to 3 days), the patient then cleans the treated areas two to five times a day with cool tap water, saline, or a dilute vinegar solution. An ointment such as Vaseline, Eucerin or Aquaphor is then applied. This wound care is intended to prevent any scab formation. In general, the areas heal in 10 to 20 days, depending on the nature of the condition that was treated. An antibacterial and antibiotic may also be prescribed during the healing process.
How many CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatments are required?
Most people require only one procedure. Those with more complicated conditions may need more.
CO2 Laser Before & After
If you are interested in CO2 laser treatment, please use the form on this page to schedule a consultation at Hollywood Dermatology or visit our contact page for information about our South Florida locations.
