Can ablative CO2 laser treatment be repeated more than once?

Question

I have had full ablative CO2 laser. I am feeling desperate due to numerous texture changes. It has been 6 months and I am have numerous textures and scars caused by the laser. I am unable to cover them with make-up as it makes everything look worse. I have been told that a repeat ablation maybe the answer. This scares me to death. Is there truly a better alternative?

Suneel Chilukuri, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear of your experience.  I often use a combination of nonablative lasers, radiofrequency microneedling, regular microneedling, chemical peels, and even ablative lasers to repair scars caused by previous laser treatment.  Experience treating scars is the most important thing for you to look for in your dermatologist.  Please find the local expert in your region and interview him or her.  If he tells you that one modality will fix everything, interview another physician.  Best of luck,Suneel Chilukuri, M.D.Houston, Texas

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question 2017hopeful. 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. Fractional laser resurfacing was designed to avoid these issues with full surface ablation, especially with CO2 lasers. Fractional laser resurfacing can also be used to address such side effects. Due to recovery and higher risk for side effects we do not perform full surface deep ablation with CO2 lasers. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations.
Good luck!

Dinesh Maini, MBChB · Answer

Dear Hopeful
Thank you for your question. Fully ablative CO2 laser resurfacing is uncommon these days as the risk of scarring is so high so I would be cautious about repeating it.
We see a lot of patients with scars from CO2 laser that can be improved using a number of methods and have had hundreds fly over from all over the world for this treatment over some years.
My advice is to initially leave it alone to heal for a year at least as you would with any other 2nd degree burn, as these things often settle by themselves. I know it is a pain but you must try to remain positive that everything will be fine, it normally will if left alone.

Can ablative CO2 laser treatment be repeated more than once?

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