What’s the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your face, neck, and chest in one treatment? If it’s fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, scars, or stretch marks that plague you, the answer is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing. Carbon dioxide lasers (CO2 lasers) have been around for decades and therefore have a long history of safety and proven results. One treatment using the CO2 laser can drastically improve the appearance of the skin.
BOOK NOWREQUEST APPOINTMENTLaser resurfacing is one of the most effective and efficient ways to correct and treat damaged or aged skin. CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing uses highly-specialized lasers that can be adjusted to suit each treatment condition to revitalize your skin by removing dead and damaged skin cells and stimulating collagen to rebuild tissue from the inside out.
Since we use the best laser skin resurfacing techniques, the treatment can treat an array of different conditions. It can reduce and drastically improve the appearance of lines, wrinkles, scars, and age spots.
We can safely treat the skin on the face, neck, and chest. CO2 laser settings can be adjusted, but we may recommend a series of Fraxel laser treatments for patients with darker skin types rather than CO2.
After the skin has been cleaned, we will apply a topical anesthetic cream to numb the treatment area to ensure that you are completely comfortable during the procedure. Once the medication has set in, we will wipe off the medication and place laser shields over your eyes. The laser session will take approximately 30-45 minutes for the face and a portion of the neck. Once the treatment is complete, we will apply a medicated balm to moisturize and promote healing.
We perform this procedure under sedation in our modern, state-of-the-art surgical suite for more extensive resurfacing, such as on severely sun-damaged or wrinkled skin. This will ensure a more effective and comfortable experience. Once the treatment is complete, your skin will be soothed with a combination of Regenica and antibiotic ointments. Proper care for your skin during the recovery period is essential to prevent any complications during the healing process.
Dr. Rice has found that epidermal growth factors in Regenica significantly improve recovery rates for patients who have undergone laser resurfacing treatment. This topical product is highly recommended to all patients, especially those that have chosen laser skin resurfacing.
The recovery period for any laser resurfacing is largely depends on the amount of treatment that you need and the severity of your situation. For mild treatments, your healing period should last approximately two weeks, including time away from work. In addition, it is suggested that you avoid using makeup for 10-12 days and abstain from exercise for 3-4 weeks.
Laser resurfacing is a very patient-friendly procedure that is available and appropriate for most patients looking to renew damaged skin. CO2 laser settings can be adjusted, but we may recommend a series of Fraxel laser treatments for patients with darker skin types rather than CO2. Our medical staff will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that your procedure is tailored to your needs and concerns.
Yes! As with any medical or cosmetic procedure, the most important thing you can do is make sure you see a licensed and trained medical professional. Your appointment will include a discussion of your medical history and a thorough examination of the treatment site. This way, we not only ensure that you are getting the most effective treatment but that you understand the minor risks and complications that may pertain to your individual case.
As with most high-level forms of skin treatment, CO2 Laser results are often significant and quite noticeable. Whether treating damaged skin, wrinkles, or anything in between, you can expect to see a significant improvement not only in your target areas but in your overall facial complexion. There will be permanent improvements to your skin, and if a proper skincare regimen is followed, your results should last for ten years or more.
To view more before & afters, visit our Laser Skin Resurfacing Before & After page.
Whereas a CO2 laser treatment is fully ablative, meaning all of the skin cells are targeted and removed, Fraxel lasers use fractionated energy to target 25-40% of skin cells at a time. This type of laser procedure is gentler and requires less downtime, but it will take a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. CO2 Laser, on the other hand, is done in one treatment. We offer both options in our office and will be able to recommend the best treatment for you after an assessment of your skin and a discussion of your goals.
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Dr. Rice received his medical degree from Loma Linda University in Southern California where he also completed an internship in general surgery and specialty surgical training in Otolaryngology—head and neck surgery. Dr. Rice went on to complete advanced training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Institute of Facial Plastic Surgery. He is double board-certified…
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