About CO2 Laser Therapy
Carbon dioxide (CO2) has been used in lasers since 1964. CO2 lasers have been used for facial resurfacing since 1991 to treat sun-damaged skin. They are also used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, acne scarring, surgical scars, stretch marks, and pore size.
The CO2 laser emits high-energy light beams that penetrate the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting the growth of new healthy skin tissues. Thus, the approach can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, sun spots, and other signs of aging skin.
CO2 laser treatment is usually not recommended as a standalone approach for darker skin types, as it can lead to hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. It’s crucial to provide the practitioner with any history of sun tanning to ensure that other issues do not develop. The CO2 laser may not be suitable for treating areas on the body showing signs of skin diseases, pre-cancerous lesions, or several other severe medical conditions, and pregnancy.
CO2 Laser Advantages
CO2 laser treatment at Nitai Clinic offers the following advantages:
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles, acne scarring, surgical scars, stretch marks, and increased pore size.
- Promotes the growth of new, healthy skin cells
- Allows selective targeting of specific skin concerns without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue.
- Stimulates collagen production
Your Consultation
At Nitai Clinic, your consultation begins with a detailed skin assessment and overall health evaluation. The practitioner will discuss your concerns and ask about any previous surgeries, current medications, existing medical conditions, and other information regarding your health. A thorough skin analysis and physical examination will also be conducted. By doing so, the practitioner can recommend the most appropriate treatment options. This includes whether CO2 laser treatments can help address your skin concerns.
The consultation process also involves a detailed explanation of the suitable treatment, including its benefits, risks, recovery time, expected results, and other important information. This helps you gain a better understanding of the treatment or procedure to make informed decisions about your skincare options.
CO2 Laser Cost in Melbourne
Several factors can influence the cost of CO2 laser treatment. These include the following:
- The size of the treatment area: The CO2 laser can target small areas like the upper lip or large areas like the whole face or chest. The larger the treatment area, the higher the cost.
- Number of treatment sessions required: The number of treatments needed for each patient may vary depending on the specific skin concern. More sessions mean higher costs.
- The location of the clinic: The costs associated with CO2 lasers can vary based on the clinic’s geographic location. Other factors can influence this, such as variations in the cost of living.
- Practitioner’s experience: The professional fees of practitioners offering CO2 laser treatment in Melbourne may vary. Their expertise in the field of laser treatment can influence the cost.
- Additional services: Additional services, such as consultation fees, pre-treatment preparations, post-treatment care, or follow-up visits, also incur further costs.
We offer customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific skin concerns. Consultation is the best way to know the best solution to your skin concerns.
Book a consultation now to know more.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediately after the procedure, you may experience redness, bruising, and swelling in the treated area. You may also experience discomfort similar to the sensation of a sunburn.
This initial reaction is a regular part of the healing process as your skin starts to heal. Clean the treated area and apply ointments as the practitioner prescribes to prevent infection and other complications.
You may also use ice packs or over-the-counter pain medications to address the discomfort. The practitioner may give you specific aftercare instructions to help with your recovery.
After a few days, you may notice the formation of a crust or scab in the treated area. This is also part of the skin’s normal healing process.
Avoid picking or scratching the treated area to prevent infection and scarring. As the skin heals, you may experience itching in the treated area, so it is recommended to cleanse the area using mild moisturisers. It promotes healing and also hydrates the skin.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF and wear protective clothing when you go outdoors. The treated area is susceptible to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Over the next few weeks, you may notice that the redness and swelling in the treated area gradually subside. Your healing ability will determine your full recovery from the CO2 laser, which can range from several weeks to a few months.
Follow the practitioner’s post-treatment instructions closely and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Potential Risks
Like any laser therapy, the CO2 laser also has risks, such as the following:
- Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to topical medications or skin care products may occur, characterized by redness or itchiness.
- Changes in skin texture: If the laser treatment affects deeper layers of the skin, irregularities in skin texture can develop.
- Discomfort: Depending on the patient’s pain threshold, mild to moderate pain or discomfort, similar to a severe sunburn, may be experienced.
- Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin can occur, especially in individuals with darker skin tones, due to increased melanin production during healing.
- Hypopigmentation: Skin lightening may occur if the laser damages the melanin pigment-producing cells, which are more common in darker skin types.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection if the treated area is not kept clean and properly cared for.
- Prolonged redness: Some patients may experience longer than usual redness, potentially due to skin sensitivity or overreaction.
- Redness: Temporary redness occurs as the skin heals and can last from a few days to a week.
- Scarring: It may result from improper healing, particularly if the skin is picked or scratched during recovery, leading to wounds.
- Swelling: Swelling is common immediately after treatment as a response to the skin’s healing process.
Consultations with a qualified practitioner and treatment at an accredited clinic can significantly lower the chances of risks and complications. It may also improve the chances of gaining satisfactory outcomes after treatment.
Dr. Shobhna Singh (MED0001152019), Registered Medical Practitioner, General Registration, is a qualified aesthetic physician with nearly two decades of experience in skin aesthetics.
Why Choose Nitai Clinic for CO2 Laser Treatments in Melbourne
Nitai Medical and Cosmetic Centre is a trusted aesthetic clinic in Melbourne, Australia, with an impeccable track record of numerous highly satisfied clients.
Dr. Shobhna Singh (MED0001152019), Registered Medical Practitioner, General Registration, conducts detailed consultations. It helps patients identify and understand their skin concerns and seek solutions to improve skin tone and texture.
Our patients receive clear and thorough information about the CO2 laser treatment, potential risks, and expected outcomes. It enables them to make an informed choice on the kind of approach.
Our timely follow-up appointments help to monitor our patients’ progress and address their concerns. This approach helps provide continuous patient care and achieve the desired outcomes.
Book a consultation now to learn more about CO2 Lasers.
