What is Fractional Co2 Laser Resurfacing?
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a method of reducing wrinkles, scars and blemishes. By using a laser to remove the outermost surface of the skin, laser resurfacing stimulates collagen growth underneath the skin. With increased collagen, wrinkles are filled in, reducing or eliminating their appearance.
Treatment Uses for Fractional Co2 Laser Resurfacing
The Fractional CO2 laser is extremely diverse. At Pacific Coast Facial Plastic Surgery, we use it to treat a broad variety of skin conditions, including:
- Fine lines or wrinkles throughout the face,
- Acne scars
- Sun damaged skin and age spots
- Aging skin
- Uneven skin texture.
- Discoloration and pigmentation issues.
Overview of the Treatment
Dr. Boeckmann is committed to individualized patient care. This begins with a consultation to carefully understand your goals and reasons for treatment, and what you’re looking to accomplish. During this time, Dr. Boeckmann will evaluate the skin imperfections and determine the best recommendations for treatment.
Once your appointment for treatment is made, patients are directed on a series of preparatory skin treatments to ensure the skin is properly prepared for the procedure. Laser skin resurfacing can be slightly uncomfortable, so the local anesthetic is used to assist with your comfort throughout the procedure. If you have any preference regarding this aspect of treatment, it will be thoroughly reviewed prior to the procedure, and your preference will be taken into account. Next, your face will be thoroughly cleansed, and you will be given protective eyewear.
During the laser skin resurfacing procedure, your practitioner applies the Fractional CO2 laser to the treatment area. The fractional co2 laser works to vaporize damaged skin cells and surface blemishes, while simultaneously heating the underlying dermis. This stimulates collagen turnover and repair which results in more volume and life to your skin. Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Fractional Co2 Laser Recovery
The recovery period after Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is as important as the treatment itself. Following the procedure the damaged outer layer peels off and your new and undamaged skin appears. The first three days are associated with redness and swelling which is a completely normal process of wound healing. After 3 days, the redness and swelling improve, but you can expect your skin to have some redness/pinkness and flakiness in the treatment area for up to 2 weeks. That being said, everyone is different in their recovery and Dr. Boeckmann provides each patient detailed instructions on their individual recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are interested in revitalizing the appearance of your skin in Orange County, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacob Boeckmann. During your consultation, he will carefully evaluate the skin concerns that bother you most, before composing a custom treatment plan designed to create a clearer, smoother, and more beautiful complexion.
