Can subcision with CO2 fractional improve my acne scars? (Photos)

Question

I have done 2 session of fractional co2 with subcision. But still do not get any improvement. My dermatologist said i need 6-8 sessions. Can subcision with co2 fractional improve my acne scars?

Thomas A. Pane, MD · Answer

With fractional laser, you have to do multiple sessions, at least 6-8 in most cases.  Full CO2 gets results in a single session, but you have to accept the greater recovery required, especially for the first few weeks.  There isn't an exact correct answer, it is a matter of your preference.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Scar tissue with textural differences and density should be treated differently so combining procedures can most definitely help expedite the results, as well as increase your treatment efficacy. Further down you will find the ideal steps on combined these specific treatments to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Prior to your C02 treatment subcision can be performed on any present boxcar scars to separate fibrotic strands that are tethering the scar to the underlying tissue. 
  Immediately after your subcision, Fraxel Repair (c02) if preformed on the full face, focusing on any dense scar tissue. Due to the intensity of the Co2 patients can expect 3-5 day downtime when paired with PRP, (5-7 days without).
  Platet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) (which is your own concentrated growth factors) is then injected directly into the scars, as wells as microneedled on top.
  Always discuss if these combined treatments are safe for your skin tone, ideal Fitzpatrick I-VI with your Board Certified Dermatologist.

Can subcision with CO2 fractional improve my acne scars? (Photos)

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Can subcision with CO2 fractional improve my acne scars? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.