You're not alone. Laser resurfacing treatments have gained popularity among those seeking to improve skin tone and texture. Boston Center for Plastic Surgery offers CO2 laser resurfacing using the Lumenis AcuPulse™. Discover what CO2 laser resurfacing can do for you, and schedule a consultation with one of our experienced surgeons today. 

What is laser resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing utilizes beams of light energy to renew and improve the skin. Various types of laser skin resurfacing treatments are available, differing in depth and targeted areas. Lasers are versatile and effective for addressing various cosmetic skin concerns.

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CO2 Laser Resurfacing Before & After

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What is AcuPulse CO2 laser treatment?

AcuPulse is a CO2 laser treatment system offering eleven different treatment options. During skin resurfacing with AcuPulse, the laser can penetrate deeply to minimize severe creases and lines or provide gentler treatment for superficial lines, discoloration, and minor skin imperfections.

Are you a candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing?

You might be an ideal candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing if you have:

  • Visible sun damage
  • Fine lines
  • Deeper wrinkles
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Uneven skin texture
  • Acne scars
  • Surgical scars
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Who is not a suitable candidate for CO2 laser resurfacing

However, some skin conditions may make you unsuitable for laser resurfacing. For instance, CO2 laser treatments are not recommended for those experiencing an active breakout or currently using Isotretinoin (Accutane). 

It's also unsuitable for individuals with recent sun exposure, tanning bed use, or recent self-tanning product application. The treatment is also discouraged for patients with a history of vitiligo, certain autoimmune diseases, or immunosuppression.

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The benefits of CO2 laser resurfacing

CO2 laser resurfacing with AcuPulse offers several benefits. The system is designed to be an all-in-one solution, providing a wide range of treatments and strengths.

  • Customization based on your skin type and treatment goals ensures safety and effectiveness. 
  • Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, in particular, offers faster healing compared to fully ablative laser resurfacing. 
  • It causes less overall skin damage, making it a more comfortable and safer option.

Types of CO2 laser resurfacing

The choice of laser used during resurfacing treatment determines the extent of results and recovery time. AcuPulse offers various options, including fractional ablative or traditional fully ablative treatments. It can also treat small growths on the body, such as syringomas, pearly penile papules, rhinophymatous rosacea, birthmarks, and more.

Fractional ablative CO2 laser

This treatment causes less skin damage by leaving areas of undamaged skin, resulting in safer and quicker healing. It reaches the deeper skin layers, stimulating new collagen production and skin remodeling. Fractional ablative laser treatments are commonly used for fine lines, wrinkles, and scars, such as those from acne or surgery.

Fully ablative CO2 laser

This treatment produces the most dramatic results by removing the top skin layer, resulting in more intense wrinkle improvement. Recovery from fully ablative laser treatment usually takes longer than non-ablative treatment, allowing the skin to fully heal and regenerate. Fully ablative treatments are often used for deep wrinkles around the mouth and to treat loose upper eyelid skin.

Laser peel

A gentler, fully ablative treatment can improve sun damage and brown spots, resulting in a laser peel. This procedure has shorter healing and recovery times and effectively removes sun damage and brown spots in one session.

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Your CO2 laser resurfacing consultation

The first step in exploring CO2 laser resurfacing with AcuPulse is scheduling a consultation at the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery with one of our doctors, such as Dr. Miller, Dr. Doherty, Dr. Moustafa, or Dr. Michelon. During the consultation, you can ask questions about the treatment's differences compared to other laser resurfacing options in our Boston, MA, practice.

Your doctor will discuss your treatment goals and specific skin concerns, review your medical history and medications, and tailor the treatment to your needs for a safe experience. You'll also receive instructions on pre-treatment preparations and post-treatment expectations.

What happens during CO2 laser resurfacing?

CO2 laser resurfacing with AcuPulse typically takes one to two hours, depending on the treated area's size. Numbing cream is applied beforehand for comfort, and patients usually tolerate the procedure well. Afterward, you may feel like you have a sunburn, but the discomfort is manageable. You'll need someone to drive you home safely after your session.

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Recovery after CO2 laser resurfacing

Recovery times vary depending on the type of CO2 laser resurfacing and the treated area's size. Expect your skin to appear pink or red for a few weeks, with minimal bruising and swelling. Depending on the treatment's intensity, taking up to a full week off from work may be necessary for optimal recovery.

Risks and side effects of laser resurfacing

Modern lasers have minimal side effects, and complications are rare when performed by experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists like Dr. Moustafa and Dr. Michelon. Possible risks include infection, which is more common after ablative treatment. Other risks include skin darkening, persistent redness, and swelling.

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Why choose us for your CO2 laser treatment?

Choose Boston Center for Plastic Surgery, where your beauty and wellness are our top priority.

We take a comprehensive approach to beauty and offer a team of board-certified specialists in facial and general plastic surgery, dermatology, and aesthetics.

We perform nearly every surgical and non-surgical procedure available today, ensuring you receive the most appropriate, cutting-edge treatments. Our consultative approach ensures we understand your unique needs and aesthetic goals. We're committed to delivering natural-looking results using the latest, most efficient techniques in a comfortable, revitalizing environment.

Our founder, Dr. Leonard Miller, is a renowned figure in aesthetic medicine, bringing over 25 years of expertise and innovation to the center.

He's the clinical founder of ThermiAesthetics Skin Rejuvenation System and was the first to introduce microneedling to the United States.

CO2 laser resurfacing FAQ

How is CO2 laser resurfacing different from other laser treatments?

Does CO2 laser resurfacing hurt?

What should I avoid before laser treatment?

When can I expect results?

How long will results last after laser resurfacing?

Will I need repeat treatments?

Will I need time off from work after laser resurfacing?

How is CO2 laser resurfacing different from other laser treatments?

CO2 laser resurfacing targets water within the skin, making it suitable for addressing severe skin concerns like deep wrinkles and scarring.

Does CO2 laser resurfacing hurt?

Patients typically feel a sensation of heat during treatment, but numbing ointment is applied to minimize discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience a sunburn-like sensation but no pain.

What should I avoid before laser treatment?

To reduce the risk of side effects, avoid sun exposure for at least four weeks before treatment. Discontinue the use of products containing retinol, sunless tanners, and sunbeds. Dr. Miller, Dr. Doherty, Dr. Moustafa, and Dr. Michelon will provide guidance during your consultation and pre-treatment visit.

When can I expect results?

Results appear as the skin heals and collagen production increases, typically within four weeks of treatment. Skin continues to improve over 3-4 months.

How long will results last after laser resurfacing?

The duration of results depends on factors like your skin type, sun exposure, and skin care after treatment.

Will I need repeat treatments?

You can have AcuPulse treatments as needed to maintain or enhance results. Discuss the best treatment schedule with Dr. Doherty.

Will I need time off from work after laser resurfacing?

Typically, patients take three to seven days off work after CO2 laser resurfacing, but downtime varies based on the treatment type.

Work at Boston Center for Plastic Surgery

Joining the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery means becoming part of a team dedicated to enhancing the lives of our patients. We are periodically seeking talented professionals for positions in various areas of our practice. Explore current job opportunities below:

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Join the Team

Joining the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery means becoming part of a team dedicated to enhancing the lives of our patients. We are periodically seeking talented professionals for positions in various areas of our practice. Explore current job opportunities below:

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