If you’re considering CO2 laser skin resurfacing, it’s helpful to understand what the treatment does and how it fits into your overall care. This procedure is commonly used to improve fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture, and is often performed on its own or in combination with eyelid surgery. In this video, Dr. Aliza Epstein provides a clear overview of how CO2 laser resurfacing works and what patients can expect from treatment.
Hi, I’m Dr. Aliza Epstein, an oculoplastic surgeon at the Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute. In this video, we’re going to talk about CO₂ laser skin resurfacing.
So, what is a CO₂ laser? It’s a type of laser that is considered the gold standard in terms of skin resurfacing.
The type of laser we use is ablative—more specifically, partially ablative—meaning it creates columns of localized burn in the tissue in order to help the tissue heal back after the laser.
So after, the laser is commonly performed at the same time as eyelid surgery. It can be used periorbitally (around the eyes), or we can perform a full-face CO₂ laser treatment.
So the reasons why we do skin resurfacing are to address fine lines, wrinkles, and pigment irregularities. It also helps stimulate collagen and elastin production, resulting in brighter, smoother, firmer, and more even-toned skin. Overall, it helps turn back the clock on your skin’s appearance.
This treatment can be repeated over time and is a great adjunct to eyelid or facial surgery.
After the surgery, it’s a great time to combine it with eyelid surgery because you may already have some bruising and swelling.
The CO₂ laser does not add additional healing time, though the skin may appear pink or red afterward. We typically then give you a treatment care protocol that typically includes applying Aquaphor, doing vinegar cleanses, and sometimes a special spray or mist to promote healing.
That’s an overview of CO₂ laser skin resurfacing. As mentioned, we often perform it alongside eyelid surgery, and our lasers are located at the surgery center.
