Laser Resurfacing Q&A
66%
WORTH IT RATING
"Worth It Rating" shows the % of consumer reviewers that stated the procedure was "Worth It" or not. See more RealSelf Worth It Ratings or Add Your Review
108 Reviews
Laser Resurfacingbefore & after photos
View Before and Afters

Average Laser Resurfacing Cost: $2,093

Learn about Laser Resurfacing

707 people and 302 doctors are talking about Laser Resurfacing

Get Free Email Updates

Possibility of Infection from Fractional CO2 Treatment?

asked 2 years ago by drom in Sacramento, Ca
Latest answer by Ronald Shelton, MD
Question viewed 549 times
Tags: lines, fractional laser, infection, smile lines

Is infection something to be worried about with Fractional CO2 treatment? I'd like to get a milder CO2 Fractional treatment. I've had a Fraxel Restore. I've no complaints-my skin tolerated it very well, but I am looking for more of a result for fine vertical smile lines on the sides of my face.

I am thinking about a DOT Laser treatment. My only concern is of infection. I keep reading risk of bacterial or fungal infection with CO2 Fractional is high. Is that correct and can prophylactic RX for antibiotic/anti fungal eliminate the risk? I am an equestrian, live on a farm and on well water. Not a super sterile environment.

2 answers to Possibility of Infection from Fractional CO2 Treatment?

+3

Infection from Fractional CO2 treatment is rare but possible

There is a small but definite risk of infection from any type of skin resurfacing procedure. When laser resurfacing is performed around the mouth, many physicians will use prophylactic Valtrex to prevent herpes outbreaks. Some physicians also use prophylactic antibiotics. If infection occurs, certain local treatments can be used (especially if fungal infection is diagnosed).
Kevin Ende, MD

Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Good post operative care is necessary

Although the risk of infection and scarring is greater with Fraxel re:pair than re:store, doctors do not refer to these risks as high for fractional laser. Peri-operative treatment with antibiotics, antifungals and antivirals can diminish the risk of infection but can’t prevent it. Good post operative cleaning and management of your skin is imperative and no riding until the skin has healed 100%, which could take 12 days, or even more. You also have to wear excellent sunscreens to... more
Ronald Shelton, MD

Manhattan Dermatologist

Ask a question