Is Predinisone Really Necessary Post Fractionated CO2 Laser, Active FX?

Thank you for your question. We will use Prednisone only in severe inflammatory conditions.   Otherwise it is not part of our routine procedure.  I can't say it is wrong, just that we don't do it that way.  Many ways to do this procedure, and be successful. I hope this helps!

Thank you for the interesting question.  It is great to have informed patients like yourself!
Active FX is a wonderful treatment for tightening and rejuvenating the face.  It is highly effective at removing wrinkles and dark spots.  It provides the skin with a natural glow.  As the skin is regenerating after the procedure there can be swelling as part of the healing process.  A short course of low dose prednisolone can certainly help reduce the swelling and should not adversely affect the cosmetic outcome.
As always, an in-person consultation with a board certified dermatologist with cosmetic training is the best way to assess your needs and provide medical advice. 

Thank you for your question. 
Prednisone is not necessary, but it may make the immediate swelling much less. There are side effects with prednisone but not significant if only used for 3 days. We do not use prednisone because of its side effects and rebound swelling that may occur. 
Consult with your local board certified facial plastic physician for a comprehensive consultation to determine best plan to meet your needs and obtain desired results.  

Allergic reactions, prolonged redness, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are all things we try to avoid post-laser, and the reason for prescribing a short course of steroid. A medrol dosepak or several day of prednisone should not affect your overall metabolism or prevent the "good healing" that contributes to your final result.

Prednisone is not absolutely necessary following laser resurfacing, but it does limit post operative facial swelling and itching, and should not cause problems at such a low dose for such a short period of time.

Interesting question and a good point that the inflammatory response is what stimulates the wound healing response that leads to collagen formation. Some very smart doctors refuse to use steroids after a resurfacing procedure for fear of interfering with this wound healing response. However, the reason for considering it is to suppress some (not all) of the more intense inflammation in order to control swelling and excess pigment production (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation ).If used, it is important to not exceed 3 days, in my opinion. The new collagen formation will continue for 6 -12 months, so I don’t believe that trying to minimize the acute inflammation for a few days will have much adverse effect on the long term results. It's a great idea to visit an expert dermatologist consultation

In my mind and having studied with many of the leading experts, cortisone, especially prednisone, should be avaoided. I see no advantages and only disadvantages.