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POSTED UNDER CO2 Laser Reviews

CO2 Laser Full Face for Wrinkles and Sun Damage (57 yo)

UPDATED FROM lnlml
3 months post

3 Months Post Procedure

lnlml
$3,800
I don't see a noticable difference, which is very disappointing. (I do look more awake. Hurray for having sleep apnea dealt with!) Let me know what you think. At this point, I would not recommend this procedure. Definitely not worth almost $4k.

lnlml's provider

Franklin D. Richards, MD

Franklin D. Richards, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 325 Reviews
PROFILE

Replies (5)

December 16, 2017
It is very difficult to see differences with pictures, which is why I did not post a review when I had fractional CO2 laser done 1 1/2 years ago in So California. Twilight sleep, hiding for 2 weeks, the aquaphor, etc. Mine made a huge difference to me. I really notice my improvement when I look in 10x mirrors!
It also takes up to 1 year to see final results. And you have to be scared of any sun from now on ! I mostly only went out in the dark for several months after and with a hat and UVA/UVB sunscreen too.
December 16, 2017
I've been sreened from the sun with sunscreen and hats since the CO2 laser and intend to continue with sunscreen (at least) and avoiding a lot of sun from now on. I've seen a lot of photos where the difference is obvious. I'm grateful nothing bad happened, but I would not have done it if I had known the slight difference. Just not worth it. I would love to be able to post a review in a few months saying it just took awhile and it's much better...we'll see. But I'm not counting on it. I will say that Dr. Richards and his crew were very good. I would highly recommend him, just that this CO2 laser wasn't worth it for me.
December 16, 2017
The surgeon is able to go deeper the fairer skinned the patient is. I am very fair skinned, plus my skin was in good condition before I had it done. Now it is just better. Maybe that is part of the reason why I had such good results.
December 30, 2017
I read about the Bensipeel on this site. The improvement of the 63-yr old woman's skin was astounding, it's as if she had good plastic surgery done to her face. However, it's only done the Bensimon Center in Oregon by the doctor himself.
February 8, 2018
How old are you
December 17, 2017
Your skin looks great. Very youthful looking. Just keep up with the sunscreen. Big improvement from your starting pictures.
I'm doing the same proceedure on Jan 3. Not sure if I should do my eyes. Any thoughts?
December 17, 2017
I agree - with everything you have to go though and the expense I would want a more noticeable result. From your pics your skin does look a bit tighter and brighter but not noticeable enough to justify it all.
December 30, 2017
Yep. Very disappointed.
December 18, 2017
Your skin looks lighter, but don't see a difference in lines....where are all the people going that have crazy amazing results?
December 30, 2017
I'm wondering the same thing.
December 31, 2017
I do see some texture changes and some tightening.....maybe your doc didn't go deep enough? In those important areas we like to see the biggest changes? I don't know if deep enough is right? Do not know how it all works. I want to have it done, but don't want to put out the $ on a doctor that may play it safe. I noticed it didn't look like u had the pinpoint bleeding and the seeping that some have had with dramatic results, maybe more pain more gain? At least your skin is brighter and tighter. Those aren't bad things. :)
January 2, 2018
Thanks for posting this. I am the same age as you are and had a similar experience with CO2 laser 6 years ago. I did not see much of a difference. I have found that the "slow and steady" approach of using Retin A and Vitamin C is helping more....but it takes patience. On another note, I am considering having a mini lift performed by Dr Richards. Are you still happy with it? You look fantastic! Very natural. I am worried about the ears/scars because I am a runner and wear a ponytail most of the time.
February 8, 2018
I agree 100% and I’m 10 + years older than you
UPDATED FROM lnlml
5 days post

5 Days Post Full Face CO2 Laser procedure

lnlml
I thought the redness had gone until I saw these pictures. The itchyness is definitely still there...a lot. But I've read that red and itchy means lots of good growth and healing, so I'm focusing on that. A few new spots of peeling have started under my eyes. I'm a little disappointed that the blackheads on my nose are appearing again, but the doctor did say this would not get rid of them, so no suprise.
I'm washing twice a day with the cleanser and putting on nectar (both given to me by the doctor), and adding Aquaphor frequently to keep my face covered with it.
So far, it looks like the two white spots on my face may blend in with the rest of my skin when this is settled, but I'm trying not to get my hopes up. I've been told that it takes many months to see the final results/benefits. I'm trying to adjust my expectations/hopes and be patient.
Still no pain. Still goopy with Aquaphor. (I washed my hair with Polmolive dishwashing liquid today in an attempt to get the Aquaphor out.) My followup is in two days.

Replies (5)

September 26, 2017
You are going to love the final result! Keep on doing what you are doing.
September 26, 2017
The community on this site is great. Thanks for the encouragement.
September 27, 2017
I was able to get the Aquafor out of my hair by loading it up with cornstarch (really work it in good.). Left that on for about 10-15 minutes, then used blue Dawn dish soap. Don't worry about blackheads right now. The Aquafor clogs up pores. After I was all healed and done with Aquafor, I had a facial done at my surgeon's spa and they removed them and some millia.
September 27, 2017
Thanks for the tips! I'm not generally one for online group, but the site has some very kind women. :) Thank you.
September 27, 2017
Wow! Your transformation is impressive and I'm thankful that you're sharing. You're going to love the final results!
September 30, 2017
I'd love to see more pics as you progressively heal. I bet you look and feel amazing!
October 1, 2017
I'm going to post more. It's a long process. Somehow it didn't really sink in that it takes months to see the full result.
October 1, 2017
Your results are going to be great! I hope you will keep the updates coming because I'm excited to watch your progression. If you are still itchy, see if your PS will write a script for Lidocaine gel. You can mix a little in your Aquaphor and It will numb you enough to help with the itching.
UPDATED FROM lnlml
5 days post

5 Days Post Procedure_Going outside for a few minutes in my hat!

lnlml
I walked our 9 year old to the bus stop this morning wearing the UV UPF 50+ protection hat and UV protection sunglasses. I was only outside for 3 minutes, but I know that could cause issues if not protected. The hat was a gift from my husband. Not exactly romantic, but his way of supporting me in this adventure!

Replies (2)

September 27, 2017
Love the hat!! I bought one from Coolibar that has spf 50 built in. I bet your's does too. I was like a vampire all summer, only came out after the sun went down and even had my car windows tinted. Even one minute unprotected in the sun would make me very uncomfortable and terribly itchy. Not sure I'd ever go though it again. My neck lift and lower face lift was a piece of cake compared to this procedure, IMHO!
November 30, 2017
Great hat where did he get it ...