What to expect with CO2 laser resurfacing
Your procedure will depend entirely on which type of laser resurfacing you choose. If you are scheduled for a deep, ablative laser treatment, you may be prescribed a topical retinoid for two to three weeks before your appointment to prepare your skin and achieve optimal results.
Medication may also be provided before the procedure to help reduce any pain and help you relax throughout your appointment. If your complexion only needs mild improvement, local anesthesia may be applied to numb treated areas of the face. For deeper, more intensive laser procedures, a type of sedation may be necessary.
During the procedure itself, you will be relaxing in a comfortable treatment chair while the laser handpiece passes over your skin, directly targeting the designated areas for improvement. You will feel the heat and then cool air from the system’s built-in cooling feature. The laser energy is applied to destroy damaged skin cells and trigger new collagen growth.