Still Sexy at Sixty-five - Naples, FL

Thanks! I got a great result - but you really have to know and trust your doctor.

I am having fractional laser done on Wednesday

Follow you instructions, stock up on fruits and vegetables, plan on staying still and if you have a recliner try sleeping there! It will keep you from turning over at night accidentally and help with swelling. But most of all think good thoughts, and in 2 weeks it will be over. In the meantime eat as health fully as you know how to do!!! Good luck!

thanks! But you know, this work doesn't stop time! It just rolls it back a little. Unfortunately it is an unending challenge. Still eating right, trying not to drink too much, sleep enough, you know, the regular stuff!

I couldn't agree with you more!

and thank you, Eva, for this website.the information available makes decision making safer and more informed. it is a huge help!

No one is more surprised than I am at the result . Thank you.

Doing the best I can - thank you so much!

Thanks lucky70! I was scared, but make the right choice.

Yes, it was the co2 fractional laser. It leaves tiny tiny dots that heal and fall off after a week or so. And it continues to develop collagen over the next 6 months. I will do it again next year!

tI most certainly understand your apprehension. You are correct - in the wrong hands, CO2 Fractional Laser can do harm. BUT, this type of laser is safer than the older types. In the right hands, experienced hands, it is a very helpful tool. There is no fountain of youth. It can't return you to the creamy perfect skin quality of your youth, nothing can, but it can help. Your skin will not be perfect, but it will be tighter and many wrinkles will be gone. Frankly, my result was much more than what I had expected!
I had fat transfer and the laser done at the same time. My impression was that the fat transfer was the more difficult procedure. Four months later I still have tenderness in my cheeks. But the CO2 Fractional Laser was nothing but a memory 2-3 weeks after the procedure. I have to add though, that during the healing process I didn’t drink wine or spirits and I slept in a reclining chair. Also, I follow a plant based diet so I am very resistant to infection and heal easily.
I’ve read accounts where patients have really suffered with the CO2 Laser, but I didn’t. I had pain medication on hand, but didn't take much of it - maybe something before bed, that's all.
Regarding the cost, I have the invoice around here somewhere, but off the top of my head, the cost was about $2,500 I think. But focus first on finding someone you trust. This is no time to hunt for a bargain!
Regarding after care: Frozen peas for the first 48 hours, and careful face washing 3 times a day with a white vinegar and water solution and slathering with a vaseline like ointment. I had also taken an antibiotic.

For me the greatest challenge was taking care of myself and my elderly husband at the same time. Next year when I do this again I may hire a helper - not for me, but to look after my husband! Two days post procedure I found myself in floppy hat and sunglasses shopping for fresh veggies at Publix - I could have done without that!

I hope I have answered all your questions. Good luck!

Thanks so so much for your detailed reply. You have no idea how appreciative I am. You sound like such an intelligent, well-spoken, level-headed person.....and did indeed answer all of my questions. I was actually just curious about the cost; I find there is a wide variation ranging from $725 upwards to $4,500. While cost is one salient consideration, finding a qualified, seasoned specialist is primary. $2,500 is the middle of the road. And taking a solo jaunt down to Florida may be well worth it. I could stay for a several day retreat! I am so sorry to hear about your husband, but it seems like you are simultaneously honing in on taking care of yourself as well. Very important. Take good care & thanks again, Kathi

good luck Kathi!

Another patient posted a Review of her Co2 and fat transfer using this PS and her stated cost were 11,200; quite a difference. She is listed under his CO2 Reviews on RS submitted April 2016. This patient mentioned no other surgery and emphasized the non-invasive nature of her procedures.

As I was packing, I found my invoice. The CO2 Fractional Lazer itself was $3500. I remember that. Add to that the fat transfer and the Juvederm, it was a considerable bill! I think the total bill was about $8000 which is a lot less than a face lift!
When dealing with your face, I think the last consideration should be the price of the surgeon you think will do the best job. As you have read on REALSELF, there are just too many horror stories out there!

Thanks for clarifying the total cost. The initial 2500 did not sound right at all. And while cost isn't the primary consideration, having an accurate figure helps. Your result is excellent, so much so that you are on your PS website. Was wondering ...if your skin was "too thin" for a facelift isn't that usually a counter-indication for fat transfer where lumpiness or uneven absorption (which is totally unpredicatable) is more easily seen in certain light levels and at certain angles.