What’s it Like to Have Fractionated CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing – from a Patient’s Perspective?
If you’re a person who likes to know what’s ahead, this one’s for you. Many patients who receive cosmetic treatments do some research beforehand to find out about their chosen procedure. But as much as you learn about the science behind the treatment, how long it takes, and more, it doesn’t beat the actual experience. Today, we’re giving you the next best thing – the genuine, no-nonsense input of a patient who’s had the treatment herself. You’ve seen a similar blog about laser hair removal, so now check out Jenny’s story about fractionated CO2 laser skin resurfacing.
Hi, everyone! I’m Jenny, and I’m someone who’s thoroughly familiar with the world of cosmetic treatments. I’ve been a patient of Laser Lights and Dr. David Whiteman, the plastic surgeon who operates both Laser Lights and Southern Plastic Surgery, for ten years. I had a facelift from Dr. Whiteman last year, but I also want to top off those results by taking care of some sun damage from my younger years as well as fine lines, wrinkles, and scars (from the facelift as well as acne). Dr. Whiteman’s recommendation was the fractionated laser skin resurfacing.
On the day of the treatment, I used numbing cream from Laser Lights to numb my face for 2+ hours. The procedure was really different from the laser treatments I’ve had before, because those were all quick spot treatments like age spot removal in a less concentrated area. But honestly, the whole appointment was over more quickly than I expected. I received one pass of the laser on my forehead (ten years of Botox® has kept most of the wrinkles away), two passes on my lower face, and three passes on my chin. I was definitely nervous, but they held my hand the entire time and kept the fan blowing on my face to keep me cool. The whole staff did a great job of explaining what I could expect, what they were doing, and how everything would work.
In the two weeks since the fractionated laser skin resurfacing, it’s been crazy to watch how my skin is changing. I was raw and crusted for several days, and I had to keep my skin hydrated and cleaned with a mixture of vinegar and tepid water, as well as shea butter and hydrocortisone cream. After five days, I was able to use a soft washcloth and rub in circles very gently, and that made a huge improvement! Since then, my skin has gradually improved little by little. Today, after two weeks, I only have a bit of peeling and scabbing left on my chin. But it’s all worth it since I’ve started seeing my results! My healed skin is so much smoother, especially where my cheeks used to have acne scars. The wrinkles around my mouth have improved tremendously, too.
Ultimately, I’m definitely glad I had the procedure, and I would absolutely do it again (and probably will when new signs of aging pop up). Even though my experience was more intense than it would be for most patients (because I’m out of state and had to have in one session what most patients would have in two), it was all manageable. In fact, I’ve already recommended this procedure at Laser Lights to a few friends and family members!
Jenny has been a patient of Laser Lights and our surgical practice, Southern Plastic Surgery, for a decade, and there’s a reason for that. At Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center, we’re passionate about providing top-notch cosmetic medical care, but also about making each patient feel like family. Jenny is a genuine part of our family, and we’re grateful to her for sharing her story. If you’re ready to start your own journey toward a refreshed appearance, schedule a free consultation at Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center. Or, for more patient stories, skin care tips, and special offers, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.