When we look young, we feel young. But as we age we naturally develop features such as deep wrinkles, acne scars, and other skin irregularities that age us, and often it feels to a greater degree than what feels natural to our inner spirit.
This reason alone is a top motivator for getting cosmetic surgery to reverse those unflattering parts of our face, and those seeking an effective non-invasive procedure will contact a plastic surgeon specializing in fractionated Co2 laser treatments as an anti-aging solution for facial revitalization. If you are wondering if fractional Co2 laser treatments are right for you, here are seven things you should know about the procedure to help you better determine if this is an option that might help you find your own personal fountain of youth.
1. What does a Fractional Co2 Laser Treat?
The most common skin condition treated by a fractional Co2 laser is acne scars. However, plastic surgeons specializing on the face use it to correct a wide range of problems that include the following:
- Uneven skin tone
- Crow’s feet
- Age spots
- Deep wrinkles
- Fine wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation
- Enlarged oil glands (usually around the nose)
- Warts
- Sun damage
- Sagging skin
Ultimately, the fractional Co2 laser revises the signs of aging while making improvements to the skin’s condition. As such, fractional Co2 laser treatments address a wide range of issues related to the face and neck, as well as the arms and hands.
2. Who Should Get Fractional Co2 Laser Treatments, and Who Should Avoid It
Fractional Co2 laser treatments are highly desired because the procedure is non-invasive and has a much faster recovery time than other anti-aging procedures performed by a plastic surgeon. Those best suited for the fractional Co2 laser are those who seek to minimize the appearance of fine lines, acne scarring, pigmentation issues, and the other skin conditions previously mentioned. In addition, Grossman Medical has used the fractional Co2 laser to treat those who had a bad facelift from other doctors.
Many facelifts botches result in non-responsive skin, so the Co2 laser is often used in situations like this one to make improvements. Finally, the fractional Co2 laser is a popular add-on procedure for those who book a mommy makeover procedure at Grossman Medical.
The idea of the mommy makeover is to restore the body to its youthful look prior to pregnancy. That said, many women who want work done to the skin’s texture while getting a tummy tuck or vaginal tightening will inquire about the fractional Co2 laser, as it is a great way to finish off a complete makeover with an emphasis on youthful, glowing, healthy skin.
As popular as the fractional Co2 laser is, it’s not for everyone. If you have open wounds, extensive acne breakouts, or any infected areas on the face, then you should avoid this skin rejuvenation approach.
If you have certain chronic conditions (diabetes, for example) then the Co2 fractional laser may not be the best treatment option for you. In addition, those who take oral isotretinoin should avoid this procedure due to health and safety risks.
When you book your consultation with Dr. Peter Grossman, he will review your medical history, perform an examination, and advise you on treatment options and which one is the best fit based on your unique circumstances.
3. How is a Fractional Co2 Laser Treatment Performed?
You need to know what to expect going into any medical procedure, and this includes how the fractional Co2 laser is used/ First, a local anesthetic cream is applied to the area 30 to 45 minutes prior to the procedure. This cream will numb the area making patients much more comfortable.
Most fractional Co2 laser treatments only last 15 to 20 minutes, so anticipate an easy, quick experience. When used, the fractional Co2 laser administers short-pulsed light energy known as an ultra-pulse that is shot through a scanned pattern with the goal to remove the damaged, thin outer layers of one’s skin.
As soon as the doctor has identified that all dead skin cells have vanished, the procedure shifts gears and produces the activation of numerous microthermal regions that penetrate deep into the skin. This can stimulate your body’s natural ability to heal itself and increase your collagen production. This part of the treatment is what replaces damaged, old cells with healthy, new skin.
4. What Kind of Pre-Surgical Instructions are Given to those Getting a Fractional Co2 Laser Procedure?
Before you undergo your fractional Co2 laser treatment, your plastic surgeon will give you care instructions to follow. Typically, there are as follows:
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun 2 weeks prior to the procedure.
- Stay away from products containing retinoids, as these can have a negative impact on the end results.
- Stop taking vitamin E and aspirin 2 weeks before the procedure, as these can garner prolonged clotting issues.
Your plastic surgeon may have additional instructions for you to follow based on your unique medical history and skin’s condition.
5. Does Fractional Co2 Laser have any Side Effects?
Because the Co2 laser procedure directs heat into the skin, some patients may experience some swelling or redness in the areas that were treated. If any discomfort is felt it is usually described as minor, and some scabbing may show up. In extremely rare cases there have been complications (your doctor will be able to go over these with you in more detail). These can include the following:
Hyperpigmentation – If you have darker skin, you run a greater risk of experiencing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This usually surfaces after inflammation of the skin, or after an injury.
Bacterial infections – While your chance of getting a bacterial infection from a fractional Co2 laser is about 0.1% in all treated cases, it has happened.
Prolonged erythema – It is typical to have some redness within the first three to four days after the procedure. However, if the skin hasn’t healed and the redness is still persistent, you could have prolonged erythema.
The risks associated with the fractional Co2 laser are extremely minimal, and when you follow your doctor’s care instructions prior to the procedure, your risks will be further reduced.
Book a Consultation with Grossman Medical for the Fractional Co2 Laser Procedure
Now that you have a better understanding of this procedure, now is the time to book a consultation at Grossman Medical for an examination to learn if the fractional Co2 laser is your best option for addressing your skin imperfections. Spaces are limited going into the new year, so call today and start that important journey towards living the best, authentic version of your true self.