Am I a good candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing?

Question

I am a 59 year old woman with wrinkles and freckling. I am fair skinned, but I tan very, very fast and dark when in the sun. Am I a good candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing?

William Groff, DO · Answer

It is very difficult for me to advise you on this treatment without at least a few photos or (better yet) examining your skin in person. I can tell you that there are many different laser devices to choose from today - in my office, we feature more than 50! With the ability to customize treatments based on a patient’s skin tone, concerns and aesthetic goals, we are usually able to achieve a very good result. I recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist and laser expert. Through a full assessment and discussion of your expectations, you should be able to devise a treatment plan for you that meets your needs beautifully.

Scott Farber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. CO2 laser resurfacing treats the most common skin imperfections and not just fine lines and wrinkles. These treatments are also effective for dark spots, acne scars, broken capillaries, unwanted freckles, and large pores. As a result, patients are left with healthy, glowing skin. Deciding if a laser facial is right for you requires the professional guidance of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Some skin types do not respond well to laser treatments, and some skin conditions are better treated with other options, such as injectable fillers and other treatments. Good luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fraxel and/or CO2 are best for resurfacing, but Erbium is a good alternative. I always combine lasers with microneedling/PRP for more robust outcomes. For skin tightening, I recommend a combination of Ultherapy with RF treatments and Sculptra for skin tightening. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Yes, yes, yes. I have no pictures but you are certainly a candidate. Active FX and deep FX are wonderful treatments for the "aging" face.These two techniques are often done at the same time, particularly if you have some deep wrinkles. This is an ablative procedure that leaves your face with new skin and a refreshed appearance. Can you stay out of the sun?? Very important to stay out of the sun post procedure as you have baby fresh skin that can burn easily. Talk with a provider in your area and see how CO2 Laser treatments can improve your appearance. Best of luck to you!

Jennifer R. Berman, MS, MD · Answer

If you have fine lines or wrinkles around your eyes or mouth or on your forehead, shallow scars from acne, or non-responsive skin after a facelift, then you may be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing. If you have acne or if you have very dark skin, you may not be a candidate. This technique is also not recommended for stretch marks. You should discuss whether laser resurfacing is right for you by consulting with the doctor before having the procedure done. Microneedling or Morpheus8 might be good options for you instead so you are not at higher risk for hyper-pigmentation.

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

Anyone who tans easily has a higher risk for hyperpigmentation after a resurfacing procedure. I would recommend looking into other options like the Morpheus8 radio frequency micro needling which has significantly less risk of hyperpigmentation but delivers similar energy deep to the tissue to help with new collagen formation and wrinkle reduction. You should meet with a surgeon who can go over your options after an in person consultation.Best of luck

Amy Miller, MD · Answer

The short, not terribly helpful, answer to your question is "it depends".  The healthier your skin is the better your results will be.  The Co2 creates a thermal injury which stimulates the healing response and inflammatory cascade.  If you have health issues and your body is in a "pro-inflammatory" state you may not get much improvement and it will take longer than average to heal.  If you have a lot of sun damage and have damaged or killed some of your fibroblast cells, your results will be less than optimal.  Additionally, it sounds as though your melanocytes (pigment producing cells)  are pretty active and sometimes the heat from the laser can stimulate them as well--leading to temporary hyperpigmentation.  If it is severe the darker areas can be hard to treat.  Since you are in a sunny part of the country I would talk to your doc about waiting till winter when you are less apt to have excess UV exposure.  This will decrease the chances of hyperpigmentation as a side effect.
If you take care of your skin, and ideally are using a vit A topically at night, and at least an anti-oxidant and sunscreen in the am, AND avoid UV exposure.....the results from a CO2 can be very nice and impressive.
I hope all my rambling here makes sense!  Best of luck to you,
Dr. Amy

Emilio M. Justo, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you so much for your question. Laser skin resurfacing is an excellent option for many people, and has a dramatic impact on surface wrinkles and skin discoloration. The CO2 laser will encourage growth of a newer, healthier layer of skin. There are other options as well. At my practice we use medical grade Obagi skin care that can also treat discoloration and give improve the appearance of your skin. I would highly recommend seeking out a practice with multiple options so that you can review what works best for you, and maybe even combine treatment for longer lasting results.

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