CO2 Laser

Visible signs of aging, sun damage, and scars on the face can lead to a loss of confidence and lower self-esteem. Laser resurfacing can help correct these concerns by addressing the skin and helping clients feel more confident about their appearance.

At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, individuals can receive advanced laser skin resurfacing procedures from Dr. Charles Guy and the dedicated plastic surgery team. We specialize in cosmetic services from the collarbone up. Learn more about what laser resurfacing entails and what patients in Central Texas can expect.

65-75 y/o female had a lower facelift and CO2 laser resurfacing.

CO2 Laser resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation service that uses a CO2 laser to treat fine lines/wrinkles, sun damage, superficial skin irregularities, stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of the skin. Regarded as a good workhorse laser for the skin because it can help treat many different conditions, the CO2 laser is safe, reliable, and effective. Where it can do its best is helping to treat fine lines and wrinkles that develop in the skin.

At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, Dr. Guy and his team use a fractional, ablative CO2 laser that works by punching tiny holes in the skin and heating the dermal layers. The heat stimulates collagen formation, which can tighten the skin and help with the overall feel of the skin.

By punching holes in the skin, the laser procedure can lighten sunspots, but also helps quicken healing and minimize scarring by leaving some skin intact. Being an ablative laser, this requires more than a topical anesthetic but usually requires only one treatment and has long-lasting effects.

To help patients get a better understanding of what our laser resurfacing procedure entails, we have broken it down by day, starting with the day of treatment and afterward.

Day 1

• The skin will feel tight and have a sunburned appearance.
• Patients should avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
• We advise patients to take their prescribed medications.
• Patients should start vinegar soaks three times a day, gently rinsing the face and reapplying occlusive moisturizer.

Day 2

• Swelling will begin to subside, and the skin may bronze and feel gritty.
• Itching (particularly along the jawline) tends to begin on this day.
• Continue applying occlusive moisturizer ointment (and cool compresses if needed).
• Continue to wash the face with a gentle cleanser and tepid water.
• Continue with vinegar soaks.

Day 3

• Facial skin should begin to peel between days 3-5.
• The central face should begin to exfoliate and leave behind soft pink tissue.

Days 4-7

• Itching usually subsides.
• Patients can begin more aggressive washing with fingertips to promote further exfoliation but should avoid picking at their faces.
• Patients may transition to bland face cream and use an occlusive moisturizing ointment to spot-treat dry or rough areas.
• It is recommended that patients use a non-irritating facial moisturizing sunblock with SPF 30+ physical blockers (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) when going outside.
• If needed, patients may apply mineral makeup (powder).

Days 7-28

• Patients may continue with a facial moisturizer that has a physical block (zinc or titanium dioxide) SPF 30+ daily until the skin has hydrated back to its normal level (usually 3-4 weeks).
• Patients can start regular skin programs if the treated area is healed and no longer exfoliating.
• Patients can use mineral makeup to protect treated areas (do not use liquid foundation as it may clog pores and irritate new skin)
• Avoid exposure to excessive sunlight for up to 4 weeks (a hat or clothing must be used to protect treated areas).
• Patients may return to exercise programs.

Because of its effectiveness, CO2 laser resurfacing is often used to treat many skin conditions. Patients suffering from the following conditions could benefit from this procedure:

• Fine lines and wrinkles: Laser resurfacing looks to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and can be especially effective in treating lines and wrinkles on the cheeks, as well as lines or wrinkles appearing around the mouth.
• Acne scars: Laser resurfacing can help reduce the appearance of unwanted scarring often left behind from acne by helping tighten the skin and smooth out blemishes.
• Sun-damaged skin: Too much exposure to UV light produced from the sun can lead to visible signs of aging, sun spots, and uneven skin texture, all of which can be treated with laser resurfacing.

Not only can CO2 laser resurfacing help reduce the appearance of wrinkles on a patient’s face, but it also encourages collagen production, which can improve the health of the skin over time.

Individuals in Central Texas who need professional laser resurfacing services don’t have to travel to Dallas or Austin. Located in Waco, Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas offers clients a variety of advanced cosmetic services, including CO2 laser resurfacing. Our goal of providing clients with safe and reliable cosmetic surgery has earned us a strong reputation in the Waco and Central Texas area. Contact us for more information about laser resurfacing or to request a consultation today.