CO2 Laser Resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing is a technique that uses state of the art laser to stimulate the skin's natural regeneration, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production which reduces wrinkles and leaves the skin looking and feeling healthier.
About the surgery
Most surgical procedures remove excess skin and tissue, but they don’t improve the quality of the tissue. CO2 laser resurfacing whether performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures, stimulates regeneration thus improving the quality of the skin. This regeneration continues for many months after the treatment.
Due to the versatility of the laser, and its adjustable settings, the laser can be used in multiple areas (common areas are face, mouth, under eye, neck), and to treat multiple skin related concerns (wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, age spots and pigmentation).
Laser resurfacing is a very popular treatment in combination with face and neck lift surgery.
Indication
Crepey skin, fine lines and wrinkles, smokers lines, scars
Anesthetic
Local / general
Downtime
2-3 weeks
Results
Brighter healthier skin, reduced wrinkles, improvement of scars
Anatomy
Small precise burns created in the skin by the laser stimulate the healing process and regeneration of the skin with new elastin and collagen production
Duration
60 – 90 mins
Exercise
3 weeks
Price
POA
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY
The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. You will meet the consultant anaesthetist who will discuss the anaethetic with you. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.
Once in theatre and asleep, Mr West will mark the planned incision meticulously to ensure the exact result. Through the skin incisions in the hairline and around the ear, the superficial skin and fat is dissected off the SMAS layer. Dissection then continues in the deep plane below the SMAS to further free the tissue before stitches are used to secure the lift. Excess skin is removed before the skin is closed with small sutures. Temporary drains are placed that are removed before you leave. Antibiotic ointment is applied to the skin incisions and a compression garment is fitted.
Following surgery you will be transferred to the dedicated recovery area where you will be looked after by our expert staff. Once you are awake and feeling well we will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.
Frequently asked questions
What is the downtime after this procedure?
Skin will appear red and hot to the touch immediately after treatment, with symptoms comparable to mild sunburn for 3 – 4 days. You will experience mild itching and visible crusting of the skin for around 10 days, with slight pinkness subsiding in around 3 weeks.
What is special about CO2 lasers?
CO2 laser resurfacing stands out from other laser treatments by delivering significantly better results in just one session, whereas other systems often require multiple treatments. It penetrates deeper into the skin, providing superior resurfacing results and producing fresher, more even skin. Additionally, the CO2 laser offers the advantage of less discomfort, reduced downtime, and lower overall cost, making it a more effective and efficient choice.
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