Laser Skin Resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing continues to be an ideal method for eliminating moderate to deep lines and creases due to aging and sun damage. This tried and true approach to skin rejuvenation precisely removes layers of skin to correct fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, smooth and tighten eyelid skin, soften pucker marks, and repair skin discoloration. While laser resurfacing may be a potent approach to skin renewal, the results are generally quite dramatic and long-lasting.

CO2 laser technology not only delivers superior tissue effects when treating moderate to deep wrinkles, but it addresses fine lines and uneven pigment. By producing a controlled superficial laser peel confined to the epidermis, CO2 lasers improve skin tone and surface imperfections.

Laser skin resurfacing is a precise, effective and long-lasting method of skin rejuvenation. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser meticulously yet gently ablates delicate tissue, layer by layer, permitting clear definition of landmarks and optimal depth control – a valuable tool for treating a range of aesthetic conditions, including wrinkles, aging or tired eyelids and acne scarring.

The Merits of CO2 Laser Technology

Years of experience and an extensive reference base including dozens for peer-reviewed research papers have standardized the laser resurfacing treatment protocol, ensuring safe, repeatable and consistent results. This collective experience has not only amplified the merits of CO2 technology but broadened its utility as well.

What has been learned since the introduction of laser resurfacing in 1994?

CO2 delivers the best effect for deep wrinkles due to its superior ability to provide continued histologic improvement over time. Fewer passes yield the same results with less chance for complications. CO2 can be used less invasively for treating milder indications or for when a shorter recovery time is desired. Darker skin tones can be treated safely and effectively when treatment is superficial. Upon long term follow-up, physician, patient and histologic evaluations have proven that clinical benefits persist.

The Value of Utilizing Authentic CO2

When addressing moderate to severe wrinkles, true high-energy short-pulsed CO2 technology has proven to be superior. Physicians report that continued, progressive improvement in solar elastosis is seen after CO2 laser resurfacing. For surgical incisions, the cutting ability of CO2 is unsurpassed.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Q & A

Question

How do CO2 laser treatments work?

Answer

With facial resurfacing, a high-energy beam of CO2 light is used to vaporize lines, wrinkles, scars, dark spots and other irregularities, layer by layer. This process also stimulates the formation over time of new, underlying collagen to provide better elasticity and support for the skin.

Question

Can CO2 laser technology be used less invasively for treating milder skin imperfections?

Answer

With CO2 laser technology, skin resurfacing is so precise that you can tailor treatment according to the nature and extent of skin damage, skin type and individual requirements for recovery time. CO2 laser technology offers both superior results for treating deep wrinkles and the ability to achieve controlled superficial resurfacing.

Question

What results can patients expect, and how long will the benefits of treatment last?

Answer

Laser resurfacing can restore your patient’s skin to a healthy state, similar to that of skin that has not experienced sun damage or scarring. With proper sun protection, results can persist for more than five years. In areas where muscle activity is strong, lines may begin to reappear sooner. As skin continues to age at a normal rate, patients are advised to maintain results with a ‘touch-up’ resurfacing treatment. In any event, with cosmetic laser surgery you will have definitively ‘turned back the clock.’

Question

What are the advantages of using authentic CO2 vs. erbium lasers that lengthen pulse width in an effort to achieve clinical results similar to CO2?

Answer

A bilateral study comparing resurfacing with long pulse erbium:YAG followed by traditional short-pulse erbium ablation to UltraPulse® CO2 followed by short-pulse erbium ablation (Rostan E, Goldman M, Fitzpatrick R. Laser Resurfacing With a Dual-Mode, Long-Pulse Erbium:YAG Laser Compared to the 950-s Pulsed CO2 Laser. Am J Cosmetic Surg. 2000; 17(4):227-231.) found that there was no statistical difference in healing between the two sides and in 5 patients (26%), greater clinical improvement in periorbital lines, perioral lines, or both was noted on the UltraPulse® CO2 side. (A reprint of this article can be ordered from the Lumenis web site, Lumenis Lit. # 5448).

The value of utilizing authentic CO2:

When addressing moderate to severe wrinkles, true high-energy short-pulsed CO2 technology has proven to be the superior method. Physicians report that continued, progressive improvement in solar elastosis is seen after CO2 laser resurfacing. The hemostatic effect only afforded by CO2 provides superior visualization of clinical endpoints. For surgical incisions, the cutting ability of CO2 is unsurpassed.

Laser Skin Resurfacing