Fresher faces in New Orleans with fractional CO2 laser therapy and resurfacing
By Dr. Mary LupoCarbon dioxide lasers
CO2 is the chemical formula for carbon dioxide, a colorless, odorless gas naturally present in air. A CO2 laser uses carbon dioxide as the medium to produce a focused beam of infrared light. Dr. Lupo has used CO2 lasers in her practice in 1995.CO2 lasers are considered one of the most useful types in medicine, and have long been the gold standard in aesthetic dermatology for wrinkle reduction. Traditional treatment, though, had considerable risk of complications and required a lengthy recovery period.
The fractional difference
The Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology uses a new generation of CO2 laser for improvement in the appearance of wrinkles and for remediation of scars, such as from acne. This device breaks the beam of infrared light into thousands of tiny beams of energy. They penetrate the skin to stimulate natural production of collagen in subdermal layers. However, they do so without harming adjacent skin cells for maximum results with minimal risk and recovery time. This provides beautiful resurfacing.FAQs about treatment and results
- How does CO2 laser therapy improve the appearance of wrinkles?
As a wrinkle treatment, CO2 laser therapy stimulates the body to produce more collagen, the primary protein in connective tissue responsible for keeping skin plump and free of lines. - What about scar revision?
The laser is used to break up tight bundles of scar tissue and encourage smooth surface skin with fresh collagen. - What should I expect during treatment?
Treatment begins with an examination and consultation to be sure you are an appropriate candidate for fractional CO2 laser therapy. On the day of your appointment, skin is cleansed and treated with a numbing agent. Your eyes are protected and special steps are taken to cool your skin during treatment, which typically takes about an hour (depending on the size and area being addressed). - What happens after a CO2 laser treatment?
Several sessions scheduled over the course of a few weeks or months may be needed for optimal results. The Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology team provides thorough aftercare instructions, including sun protection. Your skin may be temporarily red or swollen, but these side effects are easily managed with ice packs and over the counter analgesics. - Is there a long recovery period?
The treated area is red, crusts and can ooze for three-seven days post treatment. Staying indoors and avoiding large crowds are recommended to avoid infection. Because change is occurring beneath the surface of skin, results are gradual and progressive. Over the course of several months, you'll see wrinkles and scars begin to smooth noticeably. With good skin care, results are long lasting.
Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin
Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients.
Board certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for approval of new drugs and devices and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.
