Laser Treatments New York City with Dr. Cangello
CO2 Laser Resurfacing NYC
As people grow older, some of the most apparent effects of aging can be seen on their skin. Wrinkles, spots, warts, pigmentation, and other blemishes that develop can make you appear older than you actually are. Procedures targeted towards combating the effects of the aging process have become more advanced as technology has progressed.
As modern medicine allows us to live increasingly longer lives, more and more people are taking an interest in skin rejuvenation procedures to maintain a youthful appearance. CO2 laser resurfacing is a highly effective procedure for skin rejuvenation that can help restore and rejuvenate aging skin.
David L. Cangello, MD, FACS Plastic Surgery New York
Dr. David Cangello is one of the top board-certified plastic surgeons in all of New York City. His approach of treating plastic surgery with an artistic eye has successfully shaped his practice. Dr. Cangello cares about the result of the surgery as much as the patient does. Read more to learn why you should choose Dr. Cangello for your next procedure.
Schedule a ConsultationCO2 Laser Resurfacing
Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing is one of two most commonly used methods for laser skin resurfacing. It can be used to effectively treat a variety of different skin conditions, such as wrinkling, scarring, warts, and enlarged pores. CO2 laser resurfacing removes unsightly blemishes by vaporizing damaged skin cells rather than using sanding or chemicals.
How Should I Prepare for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
In the time leading up to your CO2 laser resurfacing, you should protect your skin from overexposure to sunlight and wear strong sunscreen to prevent any additional damage. During the days immediately before the procedure, it is strongly recommended that you avoid vitamin supplements and medications that could decrease blood clotting.
For patients who suffer from fever blisters, cold sores, or various other types of viral breakouts, antiviral medication may be necessary to prepare for a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment. The procedure can potentially trigger an episode of one of these issues, so prevention is key to the success of the treatment.
What Should I Expect During CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
Dr. Cangello uses the Cynosure SmartSkin®™, which is a fractional CO2 laser. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing devices work by splitting the laser into multiple beams that are smaller in diameter than a human hair. The heat vaporizes the targeted skin cells but leaves small areas untouched by the laser. These small areas work to heal the surrounding skin.
The outermost top layer of the epidermis is removed, and heat from the laser reaches the dermis, where it stimulates the formation of new collagen to restore the skin’s healthy-looking appearance. Only around 30 percent of the skin receives the actual treatment, but the entire surface area of the skin benefits from the procedure and becomes rejuvenated.
The Cynosure SmartSkin®™ can also be used as a fully ablative laser for a more aggressive treatment. If you decide to undergo this procedure, Dr. Cangello will place you under comfortable IV sedation with the assistance of an anesthesiologist, and then the treatment will begin.
CO2 laser treatments generally take about 30 minutes. During a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment, your practitioner will control the strength of the laser and the depth of its penetration into your skin. Patients have the option of a single aggressive treatment or several less-aggressive treatments spaced out over a period of several weeks. The more aggressive the treatment, the more time necessary to recover.
What Is the Recovery Process for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?
Full recovery from a CO2 laser resurfacing procedure is generally about two weeks long. You should wear plenty of sunscreen and avoid direct exposure to sunlight during this time. Most people are comfortable enough to return to their daily activities after about four days.
Since the new skin will be reddened and sensitive while you are recovering, it is recommended to keep it well moisturized and to clean it several times a day. Once the discomfort has subsided and the skin has healed, you will see a more refreshed, vibrant face.
Contact Us for a Consultation
If you have any questions about how CO2 laser resurfacing treatments can brighten your face and improve your personal appearance, contact the office of Dr. Cangello at (212) 644-4416 to schedule an informative consultation today. A member of our professional staff will help you make the best possible decision about which method is ideal for your aesthetic needs.
