| Procedure: |
Smooth the face and
smooth fine wrinkles using a carbon
dioxide (CO2) laser
device that treats layers of damaged
skin. Softens lines around the eyes
and mouth and minimizes facial scars
and unevenly pigmented areas. |
| Length:
|
A few minutes to 1
hour. May require more than 1
session. |
| Anesthesia: |
Local with
sedation, or general. |
| In/Outpatient: |
Usually outpatient,
unless combined with other surgical
procedures that require
hospitalization. |
| Side Effects: |
Temporary swelling,
discomfort. Lightening of treated
skin. Acute sun sensitivity.
Increased sensitivity to makeup.
Pinkness or redness in skin that may
persist for up to 6 months. |
| Risks: |
Burns or injuries
caused by laser heat. Scarring.
Abnormal changes in skin color.
Flare-up of viral infections ("cold
sores") and other infections (rare). |
| Recovery: |
Back to work: 2
weeks. More strenuous activities:
4-6 weeks. Complete fading of
redness: 6 months or less. Return of
pigmentation/light sun exposure:
6-12 months. |
Duration of
Results: |
Long-lasting, but
does not stop aging. New wrinkles,
expression lines may form as skin
ages. |
