Will I see much improvement in my acne scars with CO2 laser? (Photos)

Question

I'm getting the Co2 laser done to my acne scars in a couple days. My doctor told me I would see the most improvement with this laser. Do you agree? How much improvement do you think I will see?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Realself100 Surgeon

Thomas A. Pane, MD · Answer

I think you will do well with laser resurfacing to the facial scars.  You don't have any active acne which is good.  In experienced hands, you can see about 50% improvement of the scarring from CO2.  Fraxel is an option too but you will need more treatments, though these have less downtime than a single CO2 treatment.  Either way, you have good options and should see a nice improvement.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. Co2 is the best laser for scars, but Erbium / Intensif/ Fraxel are great alternatives.These types of scars need a combination of lasers, microneedling/prp, subcision and fillers. It may take a series of treatments and may need life-long treatments to maintain. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Zein E. Obagi, MD · Answer

With acne scarring it is important to have reasonable expectations. A combination of approaches can be used to improve but nor completely correct the scars. We use C02 laser, controlled depth peels, subcision and in some cases PRP and/or mirconeedling. Improvement will occur in the right hands. Complete resolution of every scar to normal skin is unlikely.

Dinesh Maini, MBChB · Answer

Hi There 
Thank you for your question and photographs.
I think you will get a big improvement with CO2 laser on a fractional setting.
As long as you are properly prepped and have good aftercare with the laser on lower settings but have more treatments the risks are very minimal.
Good luck 
Kind Regards 
Dr Dinesh Maini 
Zenith Cosmetic Clinics

T.G. Khan, DO, FACS · Answer

Improvement depends on type of laser being used, the experience of the Dr.., the depth of treatment, and how your body responds to treatment.  I use the DOT laser and there is a steep learning curve with this treatment so pick your Dr. wisely.

Will I see much improvement in my acne scars with CO2 laser? (Photos)

Answers (6)

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