Does it make a difference if your CO2 laser is done by an aesthetician or an MD?

Question

Recently I was struggling to choose a facility for CO2 Laser. Some facilities offer a free consultation, but with an aesthetician. Some facilities require a consultation fee ranging from $150 to $300 non-refundable with MD. I wonder does it make a difference if your CO2 laser is done by an aesthetician or an MD? Would the price be much more expensive if done by an MD? I am debating if I should spend $160 to have a consultation with an MD and get it done by an MD at another facility.

William Groff, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question. Laser treatments using this device should only be performed by a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in this treatment. The CO2 laser is a powerful device that can produce dramatic improvement when it is used correctly. When it is not, there is a risk for significant side effects and damage to the skin and tissue. Instead of comparing pricing, it is critical to compare the level of experience and knowledge of the provider. I assure you that will produce the best outcome to give you the greatest value for your money.

Anshul Gambhir, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be extremely concerning if an esthetician was performing CO2 laser especially at deeper levels. You should be having CO2 performed by someone who is highly trained/skilled with CO2 and that does them frequently. We offer free consultations and only the MD performs the laser resurfacing. As always, make sure you do your research on selecting a provider. Hope this helps!

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

In the state of Illinois, aestheticians are not allowed to use lasers - they must do it outside of their aesthetician role. Any patient getting an ablative laser (like a CO2) treatment must be evaluated by an MD (See Illinois regulation below). If someone is going to treat you with a CO2 laser and you have not had a consultation with the MD, they are breaking the law. Do you really want to be treated by someone who does not follow the law? Also, an MD can do a much deeper treatment than a laser technician.

Does it make a difference if your CO2 laser is done by an aesthetician or an MD?

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