Learn More About the Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Used in Laser Resurfacing
Fractional carbon dioxide laser is one of the laser types that is used during laser resurfacing. Like other types of lasers, the fractional laser has certain advantages and disadvantages, so we always recommend that patients read the information about the different lasers available before they have their treatment. Please note that detailed information about your treatment will be provided to you at the clinic before your treatment takes place. That being said, certain patients prefer to read the info before their initial appointment; this allows them to ask certain questions they have. If you are considering having laser resurfacing with fractional carbon dioxide laser, please read the information provided by our medical team below.
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What Type of Laser Is the Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser?
The fractional carbon dioxide laser is a light energy laser; this means that a beam of light will be used on the treatment area in question. When the fractional carbon dioxide laser is aimed at the treatment area, the light of the laser will start to remove thin layers of the skin. Through the removal of these layers, patients can experience multiple benefits; this includes the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles as well as skin abnormalities. A fractional carbon dioxide laser can tackle problems such as fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage by forcing the production of new collagen. The fractional CO2 laser treatment is also used in dermatology to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Acne scarring and extreme pigmentation usually require multiple treatments. Certain skin conditions may require more than one treatment depending on the laser beam that is used for treatment. It is also important to note that fractionated CO2 laser treatment is more suitable for certain skin tones than others. For example, fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is often avoided in patients with darker skin, as this laser technology treatment could damage the natural pigmentation in people with darker skin tones.
When Do Patients Obtain Laser Resurfacing with The Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser?
Most patients obtain this kind of treatment to reduce visible signs of ageing. It is a procedure commonly executed on locations where signs of ageing can be more prominent; this includes the hands, face, and chest. Of course, other locations are possible as well. It all depends on the requirements of the patient and the suitability of the fractional carbon dioxide laser for that treatment area. Shortly after treatment with the fractional carbon dioxide laser, most patients will experience an increase in skin tightness as well as an improvement in skin texture. Because of these benefits, co2 laser skin resurfacing is not only suitable for the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, it is also a treatment that can address sagging of the skin and pigmentated lesions such as sunspots. To determine if the Fraxel laser is the best option for your laser skin resurfacing treatment, it is always best to speak to an experienced dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. After an evaluation of the problem, the dermatologist can determine which laser energy is best for skin rejuvenation and the promotion of collagen production.
What Should I Tell Dr Lanzer During My Initial Appointment for Laser Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing with a fractional carbon dioxide laser may not be a surgical procedure, it is still a cosmetic procedure that can have certain side effects; this is why it is important for patients to
provide Dr Lanzer with accurate information during their initial appointment.
Patients should always report to Dr Lanzer if they are prone to outbreaks. Outbreaks such as acne,
fever blisters and cold sores could cause serious complications during your recovery from laser
resurfacing, so it is necessary to prevent these outbreaks as much as possible. To keep potential
outbreaks at bay, Dr Lanzer can prescribe some medication.
There are certain products and medications that could influence your recovery in a negative manner,
so it is important to discuss any medications you are taking before having skin resurfacing. Ibuprofen
is one of the medications that could influence your recovery, as well as products that contain a high
level of vitamin E. If you are taking certain medications for a medical problem, always provide the
information to Dr Lanzer. If required, he can provide you with an alternative that will be safer for your recovery.
Naturally, certain lifestyle choices can have a negative or a positive influence on your recovery
process. One of the negatives is smoking. Not only can smoking cause cancer and other
life-threatening problems, but it also influences the quality of your skin. It can also cause premature
signs of ageing and negatively impact your recovery process. Therefore, patients will be advised to
stop smoking before their treatment takes place.
What Happens During the Recovery Process After Laser Resurfacing?
Post-treatment Skincare
Patients are required to take good care of their skin during the recovery process; this aftercare includes the use of a good moisturiser and keeping the skin clean. However, since the treated area skin can be rather sensitive after laser resurfacing, it is essential to check the products you are using during your recovery.
When you prepare your selection of beauty products for your recovery process, be on the lookout for products that contain ingredients such as Retin A or glycolic acid. Due to the sensitivity of your skin after laser resurfacing with the fractional carbon dioxide laser, these products should be avoided. So, make sure you remove these products from your regular skincare area before you come in for your appointment.
Additional Treatments
Please note that the recovery time can be subject to any other treatment you had in addition to your laser resurfacing. For example, if you had a full face facelift, then you have to consider wound healing as well. The skin tightening effects may not be as obvious when accompanied by a facelift, this is due to the bruising and swelling that can be experienced post-procedure. Some patients may also have fillers or other procedures that have their own set of recovery guidelines.
Sun-Exposure
During the recovery process, patients should avoid prolonged sun exposure. They should use sufficient sunscreen throughout their recovery, but avoiding direct contact with sunlight will be most beneficial. Different skin types may need different types of protection as well. For more information about how to look after your new skin, you can always speak to Dr Lanzer and one of his associates.
Want to make an appointment for laser resurfacing with the fractional carbon dioxide laser? Or do you have a question about treatment with this kind of laser? Or want to check before and after photos? Feel free to contact The Dr Lanzer Clinic via telephone also available in our Sydney and Brisbane locations. Our friendly team of receptionists will be more than happy to help you out. You can also contact us by the online enquiry form.
Discover Erbium Laser Resurfacing Advantages!
An increasingly large number of patients now opt for Erbium Laser Resurfacing procedures. Dr Lanzer offers a free no-obligation assessment regarding scar treatment and laser resurfacing.
The erbium laser is also an ablative laser. However, erbium is associated with less downtime and a less lengthy healing process, this since the laser does not penetrate the skin as deeply as the fractional laser.
In addition to ablative lasers, non-ablative lasers are also an option to treat problems with skin pigment, scarring, and impurities. These lasers do not have as long of a recovery time compared to ablative lasers, but multiple treatments are often required to achieve the same aesthetic goal.
If you’re looking to remove fat from the face, get a free no-obligation consultation at Melbourne Erbium Laser Resurfacing clinic with Dr Lanzer.
Note: We encourage a second opinion. Ideally from a dematologist. Please be aware different specialties have different approaches.
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Before & After Photos
Click on the picture above to see a range of ‘before & after’ pictures of Dr. Lanzer’s amazing laser resurfacing results.
Dr Lanzer on Laser Resurfacing
View a recent Channel 7 ‘Today Tonight’ episode where Dr. Lanzer’s laser resurfacing procedure is discussed.
