Carbon Dioxide (C02) Laser Peel

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For patients wanting a more youthful appearance, a popular choice is a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel.

CO2 laser The Woodlands spring TX Dr. Rivela’s top-notch surgical skills make him one of the most sought-after plastic surgeons in practice. With his Woodland office just 30 minutes north of downtown, Dr. Rivela sees patients from all over the Greater Houston area.

What is a CO2 Laser Peel?

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel reduces skin irregularities, such as acne scars and blemishes helps to give your skin a more youthful, healthy appearance. If too much time in the sun, acne or aging has left your skin with wrinkles, lines, blemishes, scars, or blotches, the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel may help to counteract these problems.

Using concentrated, pulsing beams of light, Dr. Rivela removes skin layer by layer. Known as a laser peel, laser vaporization, or lasabrasion the procedure allows new skin cells that form during healing to produce a tighter, younger-looking skin appearance. The procedure is often used along with other cosmetic procedures.

Your CO2 Laser Peel Consultation with Dr. Rivela

Your consultation in Woodland is one-on-one time with Dr. Rivela to talk about your medical history, discuss options, ask questions, and have him design a personalized plan for your cosmetic procedure. You are provided an opportunity to interact to ask and answer questions allowing him to set up a game plan for the optimal outcome of your surgical experience.

Be ready to discuss:

  • Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
  • Expectations and desired outcome
  • Available options
  • All medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs that you are currently taking or using
  • Previous surgical history

Dr. Rivela may also:

  • Evaluate your general health status including pre-existing conditions and risk factors
  • Examine your face
  • Take photographs for your medical records
  • Discuss your options and recommend a surgical course of action
  • Discuss likely outcome, risks, and potential complications associated with your surgery

Please contact Rivela Plastic Surgery for further information on facelifts, and other cosmetic enhancements or to schedule your in-depth consultation for a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel with Dr. Rivela. Our warm, informed staff looks forward to helping you face the future.

Your Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel Procedure

Dr. Rivela performs Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel under general or sedation typically at a surgery center. The peel usually takes between 15-60 minutes and is on an outpatient basis. To facilitate healing and minimize discomfort, Dr. Rivela will prescribe specific skin care treatments at least two weeks prior to your surgery to prep the skin for the laser peel.

A good candidate for a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel is one who is physically healthy, does not smoke, and has realistic expectations about the outcome. By consulting with Dr. Rivela, you will enjoy one-on-one time and receive answers to all your questions. We are pleased that you have chosen us as part of the decision to put your best face forward.

About the Procedure

  • AnesthesiaGeneral or Sedation
  • Location of operationHospital or surgery center in The Woodlands/Spring area
  • Length of surgery15-60 minutes
  • Length of stayOutpatient (home same day)

Beautiful Young Woman

Your Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel Recovery Notes

Discomfort: Variable depending on the dressing placed at the time of your procedure. Anticipate 2-7 days of prescription pain medication

Swelling: Moderate to severe and lasts 1-3 weeks

Bandages: Treated areas will appear as abrasions. They will weep, ooze, and hurt when uncovered. Alternatively, the ointment may be applied. Most patients prefer the mask dressing, which is neater and involves less discomfort

Healing: Your skin will heal in 7-10 days and will then appear sunburned. Redness will improve over 1-3 months, depending on the depth of your treatment. Those who have more superficial resurfacing will have a faster resolution of their redness. You may resume skin care products after your skin has healed.

Presentable in Public: You will be presentable with makeup in 10-14 days.

Work: You may feel capable of returning within 3-5 days, however, your appearance may be a limiting factor.

Sun Protection: SPF 15 or higher should be used for 3-6 months.

Exercise: You may resume in two weeks.

Final Results: You will see a relaxed, refreshed appearance while preserving the natural contours of your face.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel FAQs

Am I a good candidate for Laser Peel?

A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel is an excellent choice for patients desiring to improve their skin appearance which has been sun damaged, scarred by acne, or wrinkled by environmental factors. Adults who are in good physical health, are non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about outcomes are good candidates.

What factors should be considered when selecting a surgeon to perform a Laser Peel?

When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is important that he be well-trained and experienced. Always choose a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Make sure he is trained and experienced in all areas of plastic surgery. He should have at least five years of surgical experience, no less than two being in the field of plastic surgery.

What are the risks involved with having a Laser Peel?

Certain problems may necessitate a special evaluation by Dr. Rivela including previous burns, allergies, or radiation exposure. All risks will be discussed at your consultation for a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel, and you will be given a form to sign stating the risks. Make sure to call the office with anything that seems abnormal, so we can take care of it as expediently as possible. Closely following instructions on pre-operative and post-operative care create the best environment for a problem-free surgical experience and recovery.

How should I prepare for my Laser Peel?

Good lifestyle habits such as exercising, eating a balanced diet, and getting plenty of sleep are especially important in the weeks leading up to surgery. If you are a smoker, it’s important that you quit two weeks before surgery, and do not begin again until two weeks after. Some medications may need to be either decreased in dosage or discontinued two weeks prior to surgery. It is important to follow all of Dr. Rivela’s instructions leading up to surgery to ensure the best outcome.

What are the benefits of Laser Peel?

Nothing has more of an impact on how we feel than our face. By making the skin smoother, you will feel better and, with the face being the focus, just putting on make-up will be more of a pleasure.

How Much Does Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel Cost?

The overall cost of a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel in Houston is affected by anesthesia fees, hospital fees, post-surgery garments, and medications. Price is also impacted by medical tests, surgeon’s fees, and the exact techniques employed.

Schedule a Consultation

Please contact us today if you have any questions about the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser Peel in Houston or would like to schedule a consultation at Rivela Plastic Surgery. We will build the ideal treatment plan for you in order to help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin.