Scarring After CO2 Fractional Laser Treatment

Question

My skin look worse 4 weeks after CO2 Fractional Laser Treatment. It went from smooth to looking like a sponge. What can I do?

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. CO2 is used to tighten the skin and reduce pigmentation. it is recommended to pretreat with a topical hydroquinone to prevent hypopigmentation.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional ablation may cause your skin to have scattered scars.  These are likely due to the ablation + swelling. I would begin pulsed dye laser treatments to improve your scars. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Genevieve F. Caron, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
I agree that the sponge effect you noticed is probably due to the swelling, but it is hard to say without a picture or consultation.
If you are worried, you should definitively go back to your doctor or ask for a new consultation with a Board Certified Plasctic Surgeon or Dermatologist.
Best Wishes,
Dr Genevieve F.Caron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal, Canada

S. Randolph Waldman, MD · Answer

The appearance of your skin is most likely due to persistent swelling.  Having stated this I hope you have returned to your surgeon with these concerns.

Scarring After CO2 Fractional Laser Treatment

Answers (4)