CO2 LASER RESURFACING

By far the most powerful and aggressive laser available on the market is a CO2 laser. Dr. Brace uses the CO2RE CO2 laser. This new generation of CO2 laser utilizes a fully customizable interface and provides the option of varying levels of fractionation to prevent some of the problems with scarring that early CO2 lasers would create. Militaries and burn hospitals world-wide use this laser technology to treat extensive scars. With our laser skin resurfacing, Kitchener and Milton residents are not only just a short drive away, but also treated by Dr. Brace himself. Using this method, he is able to minimize scars, vaporize moles and skin lesions and treat aging skin to reduce wrinkles, even discoloration, and stimulate collagen production.  The CO2RE can also be used as a laser scalpel to perform bloodless minor skin surgeries.

This is a powerful laser and requires 1 week of wound care. The redness that results from treatment will fade over 1-3 months. After the first week, treated skin has the appearance of a sunburn. Once fully healed, skin has an even tone and a healthy pink glow. 

Dr. Brace has specialized Oxygenetix make-up in office that can be applied directly to treated skin to camouflage redness if social downtime is difficult or impossible. 

People with darker skin tones (Mediterranean, Asian, Mestizo, Black, and Brown) are at higher risk of pigment complications in treated skin including dark pigmentation (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or pigment loss (hypopigmentation). For these reasons not every person is a candidate for CO2 laser skin resurfacing in Guelph and a consultation is necessary. 

If Dr. Brace is concerned about pigment problems after treatment, he will recommend pre-treatment with a skin lightening agent and a test patch usually hidden behind the jaw in the upper neck. If you are not a candidate for CO2 laser, other treatments like eTwo or Profound are available.

CO2RE SKIN RESURFACING F.A.Q.

Is the procedure painful?

Before Dr. Brace starts the treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied to the skin. This will help to reduce discomfort during the treatment. However, you will still experience moderate discomfort during and after. For more aggressive treatments Dr. Brace may do a few nerve blocks by injection to ensure the area is completely numb.

How long does the procedure take?

Typically, when treating the full face it will take about an hour and a half. You will need to have someone drive you to and from the clinic the day of the procedure to ensure you can focus on icing the area immediately after.

How long will my results last?

There are several variables that will determine how long you can expect the results to last, including health, age and how you take care of your skin after treatment.

Will I need a series of treatments?

Generally, you will see the difference you want after just one treatment. In the days after, your skin will gradually look smoother and tighter. You will see fine lines, age spots, acne scarring, uneven texture and pore size start to show immediate improvement.

What is the downtime associated with this procedure?

For the first week after CO2RE, you will need to be at home resting, you will be given very detailed instructions on how to take care of your skin during this time. You will be red, swollen and the skin will start its peeling process. After the first week, you will look like you have a sunburn and certain areas of the face will look darker pink than others. Oxygenetix foundation make-up can be applied to conceal the redness. Once you are past the first week you will be able to apply a loose powdered mineral makeup if you wish. The pinkness will last 4-6 weeks after the procedure.

Is it safe to have the done in the summer?

When having a CO2RE procedure done in the summer, extra precautions must be taken. Your skin will be extremely sensitive to the sun following treatment. You will need to wear a hat and sunscreen. Please avoid being out in the sun as much as possible.

When can I go back to work after?

Most patients can go back to work one week following their procedure. Everyone heals differently so we would advise giving yourself a full month of healing before you have any big social or work events to attend.

Do I need to take any special precautions after treatment?

Dr. Brace will provide you with antibiotics to take after the procedure to prevent infection while you are healing. The use of a moisturizer and an SPF is very important during the healing process and thereafter to protect your results.

How long after treatment before I see my full results?

Usually, about 3 months following your treatment will give you a good idea of your final result. For the first few months, subtle changes will continue to take place. Dr. Brace will see you for a series of follow up appointments to take photos and keep a close eye on your healing process. If you wish to learn more, contact us today and schedule a consultation to receive arguably the best results after laser skin resurfacing Kitchener has to offer.

Before & After