Laser resurfacing is a permanent solution to improving skin quality and texture. It works by removing the upper layers of the skin to make way for healthy new skin. It also causes increased collagen production in the skin to decrease wrinkles and give a more youthful appearance to the skin.

Generally only one treatment is required. However, patients with deep acne scars or wrinkles may opt to have a second treatment to improve results further.

Patients will be welcomed to the clinic and have topical numbing gel applied to the treatment area. They will also be given the option of oral pain medication to ensure that the treatment is as comfortable as possible. The CO2 laser resurfacing procedure will be provided under the guidance of Dr. Scott, a Cosmetic Physician with extensive experience in ablative laser. After the treatment a post-procedure balm will be applied to the skin and an Aftercare Pack will be provided with detailed instructions. The patient will need to be driven home from the clinic by a friend or family member. The time spent in the clinic will be around 2 hours, but the procedure itself is only 30 minutes.

Following CO2 laser resurfacing there will be approximately 5-7 days of social down time. With social down time you can continue your usual activities, but you may not wish to attend work or social activities as your face will be red and flaky. It is generally advised that patients rest at home for at least the first few days. During recovery patients are encouraged to perform regular vinegar soaks and apply post-procedure balm at home. Following this first week the face will have a beautiful new skin layer with improved complexion, however there may be some mild redness for the first month after treatment.

As with any medical procedure, there are possible risks to consider. All patients will have some bleeding and swelling immediately after the procedure in the area treated. The skin will be red and flaky for the next week as the skin heals and new collagen is laid down. There can be some discomfort and ‘tight’ feeling to the skin during this time. Very rarely and infection can occur that requires antibiotics. There is a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in the area treated – this risk is higher in darker skin individuals.

CO2 laser skin resurfacing can be performed in men or women to improve skin quality & texture, correct uneven pigmentation, improve acne scars, increase collagen production and improve wrinkles. However as it is an ablative laser treatment it cannot be used in patients with darker skin complexions due to the increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. There are a number of alternatives in clinic for patients with darker skin types.

The most important aspects of aftercare following CO2 laser skin resurfacing is performing regular vinegar soaks, applying the post-procedure balm and staying out of the sun. More comprehensive Aftercare Instructions as well as an Aftercare Pack will be provided to all patients. This pack contains all of the things that you will require to look after the treated area following the procedure – post-procedure balm, pre-mixed vinegar soak, clean gauze, gloves and a disposable pillowcase.

Full face CO2 resurfacing laser is $4000. This package is inclusive of:

• A lactic acid peel and Heallite II treatment one week prior to the procedure to prepare the skin and ensure it is ready for the CO2 resurfacing
• CO2 laser skin resurfacing full face with Aftercare Pack provided on the day of treatment
• Two Heallite II treatments performed on day 3 & day 7 following the procedure to encourage healing
• Further follow-up appointments at 3 & 6 months following the procedure