How does Fractional CO2 laser work?

It’s not magic. It’s a powerful non-ablative fractional laser. It uses energy microbeams to create areas of affected tissue that extend through the epidermis into the dermis, breaking down facial lines, creases, acne scars, surgical scars, and unsightly skin imperfections. The body’s natural healing process generates new skin that’s healthier, smoother, and more youthful.

Best of all, this unique laser treatment lets you look like you-only better. Your best you, with fewer lines and imperfections and without unnatural facial changes.

Am I a candidate fractional CO2 treatment?

Healthy patients with realistic expectations who are seeking total skin rejuvenation or treatment of scars from surgery or acne are excellent candidates for fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. Patients with active inflammatory skin conditions may require treatment of these conditions before lasering, and those with very dark skin are not good candidates because of a risk of changing the skin’s native color.

This laser has multiple settings from virtually no pain to aggressive treatments. We can tailor a treatment plan to fit your needs, from a lunchtime weekly program to a one time agressive skin resurfacing.

Pretreatment plans:

Adonia Med Spa team will define the problem areas and the treatment pattern to be used and take baseline pre-procedure photographs. Depending on the level of treatment, ranging from superfacial to aggressive we may recommend wearing comfortable clothing and having a family member or friend with you to drive you home after the procedure. Before treatment you will receive an entire briefing of what to expect, potential risks and side effects, and how to care for yourself after the procedure.

Treatment procedure:

Superfacial treatments reqirire no anesthetic. It is typically not associated with any downtime or discomfort

Aggressive treatment require a topical anesthetic to maximize your comfort before the procedure. If you are anxious, you may be offered a medication to help decrease anxiety, but you will be awake during your treatment. General anesthesia is unnecessary and puts you at increased risks. Once numb and comfortable, your provider will use a combination of treatment settings specifically tailored to your skin type and degree of rejuvenation desired. Following treatment, an emollient is applied and post-care instructions are re-reviewed. The whole procedure from photos to post-treatment typically takes 1.5-2 hours.

Post-treatment and recovery for aggressive procedure:

You will receive detailed instructions for postoperative care. Following these instructions is essential for maximizing your comfort, for achieving best results, and to avoid complications.

After your CO2 laser resurfacing treatment, you will look like you have a bad sunburn and your skin will be warm. Initially, swelling is usually most significant around the eyes. It is normal for the skin to be moist and even contain some crusting. Over the course of 3-5 days, the old damaged skin will begin to come off and light flaking will continue for up to 10 days. Although your skin can remain pink for a few weeks, most patients are able to apply make-up in 7-10 days post-treatment. We will watch your healing closely to make sure you are progressing well and that you are healing as expected. Our staff and dermatologist are available for any questions you may have during your recovery period.

Although your skin will be visibly tighter and smoother in 1 week after the procedure, final results are typically seen at 3-6 months later as it takes time for new collagen to synthesize.

Adonia Med Spa has the skills, experience and expertise to deliver superior, individualized results.