Hypopigmentation after Co2 laser treatment in the under-eye area. Any solutions? (Photo)

Question

Hi, in November of 2022 I had a Co2 ablative laser treatment + fat transfer done in New York. Fat didn't do anything but now the Skin in my under eye looks like this (see pics). I have this white mark which I think is Hypopigmentation and I really don't know what to do. It's affecting my day to day really badly. I tend not to go out / meet people as much cause I'm very conscious about it. What was supposed to be an improvement turned out to be a nightmare. Are there any solutions to this?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For unique cases where a variety of modalities could be used to treat the condition, I would suggest an in-person or virtual consultation to develop a custom and effective treatment plan.  It is difficult to precisely define the best option without collecting the same information. I suggest reaching out to an expert for a consultation with surgical and non-surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say that I am very sorry you are having this problem, although I am not surprised. My regular followers know well that I caution against the use of fat transfer, since the results tend not to last as long as promised, the procedure(s) to withdraw fat and reinject are relatively expensive, and engender downtime due, in large measure, to the need for larger cannulas to withdraw and reinject fat. Sorry. My regular readers also know that I caution against the use of lasers and other expensive light and energy-based gizmos, since the hard science to support these lag well behind the heavy social media hype and marketing to promote them. And because of the difficult to treat complications, such as hypopigmentation that can result, as seems to be the case here, from their use. Again, sorry.  I have had gratifying results for blending skin tone in such cases, using professionally performed manual Dermastamp microneedling (no need for the added expense or risks of RF microneedling) accompanied by the application of prescription pigment enhancing topical medications in order to better blend  the hypopigmented area with the surrounding normal skin.  You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Hypopigmentation after Co2 laser treatment in the under-eye area. Any solutions? (Photo)

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Hypopigmentation after Co2 laser treatment in the under-eye area. Any solutions? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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