Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a surgical technique used for the improvement of facial wrinkles and the treatment of skin imperfections such as post-acne scars. The laser emits an intense beam of light that instantly vaporizes tissues and skin. This action is so precise and selective at the point of impact of the beam that the surrounding tissue is only mildly affected.
During the procedure, mild to significant pain may be experienced, but in order to minimize discomfort, local anesthesia and/or intravenous sedation are administered. There is no pain during the postoperative period.
This method initially causes swelling and redness. At the end of the procedure, dressings are required and they need to be repeated in the following days. After 6 days, the dressing is permanently removed, and the skin looks healthy but intensely red. The redness gradually changes to a pinkish color, and after 20-30 days, the normal complexion is regained. During this period, direct exposure to sunlight is strictly prohibited.
Complications from fractional CO2 laser are infrequent: hyperpigmentation (more common in patients with olive or dark skin, usually disappears spontaneously or with topical treatments within 2-6 months), hypopigmentation (rare complication that can manifest late with white patches, which usually regain pigmentation after a few months or, rarely, may persist), scars (minimal risk), infection (minimal risk with pre and postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis), demarcation line (temporary difference between treated and untreated areas), itching.
While this surgical procedure has shown the potential to provide good results, a guaranteed outcome for each individual case is not realistically achievable or assured.