CO2 Laser Surgery

This laser has proved to be very useful in the controlled removal and treatment of the skin’s surface. It is very effective in treating facial wrinkles, such as those wrinkles around the mouth and the eyes. It is also effective in improving the horizontal forehead wrinkles.

    For superficial hyper pigmentation (for example: age spots, excessive pigmentation secondary to pregnancy, or sun damage) the laser can provide a precise mechanism in which the epidermis of the skin can be removed with a negligible risk of scarring.
   The tool is so accurate that it can remove moles, irregular scars, and hypertrophic (raised) scars down to skin level, thus improving their appearance.

    The computer-controlled precision of the laser allows for the smoothing of the edges of depressed scars in the face as seen in certain types of acne scarring
Pre-Operative
The patient will have an appointment approximately one week prior to surgery. This will allow questions to be answered before the procedure.

All instructions and prescriptions will be given.
1. Discontinue aspirin products one week prior to surgery.
2. Some pre-op testing may be required (blood work, EKG) depending on medical history and if any anesthesia is necessary.
3. If IV sedation is required, then nothing to eat or drink past midnight the night prior to laser.
4. Please do not wear jewelry.
5. No make-up should be worn.
6. If sedation is necessary, please arrange in advance for transportation.
7. Fees for the procedure are to be paid in full prior to date of treatment.

Procedure
    The patient will be taken to the procedure room and placed in a special procedure chair. 
   The patient will be asked to lie still throughout the procedure that can last from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area to be treated. Rarely does a patient need a sedative, but if required, a pill can be given one hour prior to surgery. If an entire face is being lasered, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia will be necessary to make the patient feel more comfortable. If this is the case, arrangements for a ride home will be mandatory.

Before	After
Before	After

Postoperative Care
    After the procedure, the patient will use a medical ointment on the entire lasered area to help speed the healing process. It is important that the area be constantly covered with the ointment for approximately seven days. Never let the face get dry or crusty.
    The treated area must be gently washed with warm water and a mild soap approximately three times a day. Reapply the ointment immediately. Continue to keep the face clean for about a week.
    Pain is a minor problem after the procedure and most patients are given pain medications. However, extra-strength Tylenol can safely be used. By the end of the following day, your face will feel tight and drawn. This is a normal healing response and the Tylenol will help to alleviate this feeling.
   At the end of 10-14 days, the skin will be red and the patient can look socially acceptable with make-up. It is strongly recommended that you use an opaque sunscreen with zinc or titanium oxide.