Will I have outbreaks of cold sores in the future after CO2 Fractional Laser treatment?

Question

I'm scheduled for a CO2 Fractional Laser treatment just on the perioral area. I have a history of cold sores when I was a teenager ( I am 55 now) I realize I am susceptible to cold sores after the procedure but I am concerned about future outbreaks even after taking the medication during my recovery. I would appreciate any advise, Thank you!

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Having a C02 laser resurfacing procedure around your mouth is consider ed a "traumatic event" to your skin, therefore for those who have a history of cold sores will be at risk of having an outbreak during this recovery period. It is best to take an RX oral antiviral during this time.  Once the skin is healed, your chances of getting another cold sore are not increased but simply remains the same as you normally would for example during stressful situations and temperature extremes etc.

Carlos Mata, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hello there,Thank you for your question.  I have done numerous treatments on patients with your same concerns.  Usually, the virus only becomes active in extreme situations of stress or if the area undergoes stress (aka getting a resurfacing).  I always have my patients take prophylactic anti-viral medications and in my experience, they have not had a problem with outbreaks immediately post procedure nor have they seen an increase in frequency of outbreaks.  Hope this helps. All the best,Carlos Mata, MD, MBA, FACSBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

If you use preventative antibiotics, antiviral medications and skin care you should have no problems with your laser resurfacing treatment.  Please see an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question Ivar. Fractional
CO2 laser resurfacing is an outstanding treatment that can address multiple
aspects of aging in a single treatment. When using aggressive settings I prophylactically treat all patients to prevent cold sores. In patients with a history of cold sores I prophylactically treat for any settings. For my patients I prescribe valacyclovir 500 mg by mouth daily for 7 days starting one day prior to the treatment. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Inessa Fishman, MD · Answer

In general, most patients should be pre-treated with antiviral medications (such as acyclovir or valacyclovir) at the time of resurfacing procedures.  The majority of the population has been exposed to the cold sore virus, and possible re-activation of the virus is a possible complication of resurfacing procedures such as CO2 laser, peels, dermabrasion, etc.  Re-activation of the cold sore virus is possible even with pre-resurfacing prophylaxis; in this situation, higher dose of oral and/ intravenous and/ or topical antiviral medications are employed.  Please discuss your medical history and concerns with your physician, and good luck with treatment.

Will I have outbreaks of cold sores in the future after CO2 Fractional Laser treatment?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preventing cold sores

Answer: Preventing cold sores

Answer: Resurfacing and antiviral prophylaxis

Answer: Resurfacing and antiviral prophylaxis

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Will I have outbreaks of cold sores in the future after CO2 Fractional Laser treatment?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preventing cold sores

Answer: Preventing cold sores

Answer: Resurfacing and antiviral prophylaxis

Answer: Resurfacing and antiviral prophylaxis

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.