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

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

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. 

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.

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!

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.  

Herpes can break out after any major procedure to the face including laser and chemical peels. With your history I would advise you to let your doctor know so he can give you prophylactic medication before your procedure. Herpes after a procedure can complicate results and cause scarring. 

If you have a history of cold sores, 100% of my patients (and I am sure all of us would agree), are placed on antivirals prior to, or the day of the procedure. If are are concerned regarding outbreaks during the recovery process, take the antivirals until you heal 100%. Be guided by your specialist. Dr Davin Lim. Brisbane. Australia.