I Want to Look my Best at Daughter's Upcoming Wedding (So the Groom Won't Fear His Bride's Aging). :-) - Spokane, WA

My previous research, as well as my consultation with Dr. Chesnut, revealed that this procedure is quite intensive and, although initially somewhat painful, it can have a relatively brief recovery time...with excellent results. The CO2 laser treatment is often one of the reasons the skin of aging movie stars appears smooth and supple...and youthful. At all times during the procedure, Dr. Chesnut made every effort to see that I was comfortable and doing well. He was careful to first gently inject anesthetic in areas of my face that would offer the most desensitizing to the laser treatment that followed. Some areas were more sensitive than others, particularly around the lips, and I did feel relative degrees of pain as the laser was used around my entire face. At present I am one-week post procedure. The first couple of days and nights presented significant challenges with discomfort from heat/inflammation and swelling. I've gladly used the medications, facial cosmetics and techniques as recommended. After about three days, the initial discomfort subsided somewhat and I was able to relax considerably. More recently I've experienced itching and peeling…but am now seeing a smoother face even this early, although my skin is still quite red. I wouldn’t recommend this procedure for those who are not motivated to endure short term discomfort for the goal of long-term improved appearance. I personally believe that improvements to one's appearance can have an overall health-giving and longevity effect. I read some time ago of a study that was done showing that women who had undergone facelifts lived an average of 10 years longer than their peers. It makes sense that we "feel" the way we appear, even to ourselves.