5 weeks after CO2 procedure, no improvement in texture and shape of laser marks - permanent damage? (Photo)

Question

After 5 weeks no improvement regarding marks on my cheeks after CO2 procedure. Texture is bumpy, shiny, waxy, hypertrophic scar alike with visible dents after laser. It appeared 5 days postprocedure. No topical corticosteroids seem to work. I've seen 4 doctors, 3 told me it will go away, but it isn't happenning. Is it possible to destroy collagen production in order to create such a permanent "scar"? What is left? Steroid injections? Please help.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you should be started proper skin care, non ablative lasers and microneedling/PRP for healing.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Dilip D. Madnani, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest giving it more time, the full healing can take months, depending on settings used, and laser can also be used to help any potential issues. I would follow up with your provider for further help

Lisa Jenks, MD · Answer

I am sorry you are experiencing this after your CO2 treatment.  I am not surprised about the lingering redness.  I tell clients that everybody is red for at least 4 weeks and many are for 10-12.  The redness does eventually go away.  If it seems especially stubborn, we will do a few treatments of laser Genesis, which is a very gentle, no down-time laser.
The hypertrophic scars with visible dents are more unusual and concerning.  I would not panic yet, though.  Try and be patient for another 3-4 months.  If, at that point, your skin is still showing scars, you could consider either micropen treatments and/or steroid injections.  I would not begin those yet, however.  If you want to do something now, I highly recommend Infrared light treatments after CO2 lasers.  I find that they stimulate healing and improve outcomes.
Best of luck to you.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question anuszka. I am sorry to
hear about your situation. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is an outstanding
treatment that can address multiple aspects of aging in a single treatment. It is difficult to make an assessment without a before photograph. Redness and textural irregularities are normal after this type of treatment and full recovery can take up to 3-6 months. Patience is important. In our office we treat redness with IPL. Ironically if there is textural irregularities from a resurfacing treatment it can be treated with fractional lasers (with adjusted settings). Please consult with a
doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

5 weeks after CO2 procedure, no improvement in texture and shape of laser marks - permanent damage? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar and redness after fractional CO2

Answer: Scar and redness after fractional CO2

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5 weeks after CO2 procedure, no improvement in texture and shape of laser marks - permanent damage? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar and redness after fractional CO2

Answer: Scar and redness after fractional CO2

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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