Lutronic eCO2 Plus Laser Resurfacing
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The Lutronic eCO2 Laser Resurfacing rejuvenates the skin’s texture and tone by treating fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration or pigmentation. The eCO2 can also help improve acne scarring. Significant improvement can be seen after a single treatment, however, there is more downtime compared to the lighter eCOTone laser resurfacing treatment that we also offer.
Treatment benefits:
Reduces facial fine lines and wrinkles
Improves appearance of surgical scars and acne scars
Reduces sun damage, brown spots, and vascular conditions
Gives the skin a firmer, smooth appearance
For more information and before and after photos, visit the Lutronic instagram and website.
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CO2 laser should NOT be used if you:
Have used Accutane in the past year.
Have a history of excessive scarring and pigmentation disorders.
Are using blood thinners: Such medications include but are not limited to aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs, Plavix, coumadin, Eliquis, Pradaxa and others.
Are on immunosuppressive therapy as there may be an increased risk of infection.
Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Patients with darker skin tones have higher risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and should thus weigh treatment risks and benefits more carefully.
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The procedure may result in the following adverse experiences or risks:
Pain: The sharp, burning sensation of each laser pulse may produce a moderate to severe amount of discomfort. Topical anesthetics and anesthetic injections may be used to help with pain during the procedure. There may also be pain after the procedure.
Swelling and oozing: Areas most likely to swell are around the eyes and neck. A clear fluid may be present in the lasered areas and may create a crust (or scab) if the areas are not kept moist. Within about 2 days, you may appear to have an exaggerated tan with slight micro-crusting that may last as long as two weeks depending on how aggressive your treatment is. It is recommended that a healing ointment be kept on the skin during this period.
Prolonged skin redness: the laser-treated areas may initially appear bright red in color depending on how aggressive your treatment is. Any redness will fade to pink over the following couple of weeks, and normal skin color will return but prolonged redness is possible.
Skin darkening (hyperpigmentation): Hyperpigmentation of the skin can occur in the treated areas and will usually eventually fade within a few months. This reaction is more common in patients with olive or dark skin tones. The risk is increased if the laser-treated area is exposed to the sun.
Skin lightening (hypopigmentation): Light spots can appear soon after treatment or can be a delayed response to the laser resurfacing. The pale areas can darken or re-pigment in several months, but could be permanent.
Scarring: The risk of this complication is minimal, but it can occur whenever the skin’s surface is disrupted. Strict adherence to all advised postoperative instructions will reduce the possibility of this occurrence. Do not pick as this causes scarring.
Infection: A skin infection in the postoperative period can result. This risk is minimized by strictly following postoperative care.
Allergic reaction: It is possible that an allergic reaction to an aesthetic, topical cream, or medication can occur.
Ectropion: In rare instances, an outward rotation of the eyelids can result after eyelid laser resurfacing.
Acne or milia formation: Flare-up acne or formation of milia can occur in the postoperative period.
If any of these occur please contact our office.
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You can read the consent form for laser resurfacing here.
You can read the CO2 financial agreement here.
Plan to be at home for postop care for 7-10 days and make the appropriate arrangements as needed.
Review and obtain the recommended supplies.
Review and plan to follow the recommended protocol.
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Oozing may occur for the first days after the procedure. Crusting or scabbing of the skin may occur shortly after any oozing. Do not pick at any scabs.
Dry skin is usually reported 3-4 days post procedure and resolves with peeling. Peeling is normal and can occur 4-7 days after your procedure. Secondary round of peeling has been observed 1-2 weeks later. Do not pick at the peeling skin.
Redness and swelling are also common. Swelling usually resolves within a week. Redness usually becomes faint by 1 month.
Itching may occur as the skin resurfaces, which occurs around 3-5 days post procedure. Itching may last up to a week.
You can review the pre and post op routine here.
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Post Treatment Care:
Follow the recommended protocol in the section below (rintable instructions can be found here.).
Lutronic eCO2 Plus Laser Treatment FAQs
Recommended Supplies
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Includes the following:
Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream : Gently cleanses and calms skin, promotes hydration.
Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®: Helps prepare skin and reduce downtime
Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology®: Helps restore an optimal evironment for recovery
SilkSHIELD All-Mineral SPF 30 with TriHex Technology®: Provides protection from UVA/UVB, IR rays, pollution, and blue light.
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Helps to soften, calm and moisturize skin.
Helps support recovery following cosmetic treatments.
Helps to restore the barrier function of the skin.
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Use sunscreen and other forms of sun protection and avoid extended sun exposure/tanning at least 4 weeks prior to treatment.
Avoid deep facial peel procedures for 4 weeks before treatment (for example, strong chemical peels, laser resurfacing, dermabrasion).
To prepare your skin for laser resurfacing, you may be asked to apply a pigment suppressor on your skin for about four weeks before your procedure.
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Discontinue use of the following blood thinners: Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin, Celebrex, Aleve, and Ibuprofen; Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be taken for pain.
Over the counter supplements such as vitamins may also have products that make your blood thinner. These medications increase the likelihood of bruising and bleeding and should be discontinued.
Avoid tanning lotions, self-bronzers, and spray tans.
If you are spray-tanned, please exfoliate to help remove the tanning product in the treatment area.
Stop use of any retinol and skincare products with active chemical exfoliants (BHAs/AHAs) such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid.
Obtain supplies for pre and post op care. See and shop our recommendations.
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Avoid waxing in the area to be treated.
Stop bleaching creams if applicable.
Fill prescriptions if you have not already done so.
Ensure you have all the recommended supplies ready.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Limit salt, caffeine and alcohol intake.
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Begin taking prescribed antiviral medication if applicable
Avoid alcohol
Limit caffeine
Prepare vinegar soaks:
Add 2 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar to 16 oz. of distilled water
Shake or stir gently
Place in refrigerator
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Shower/bathe as usual
Do not wear any makeup or skin care products to the procedure - come to the appointment with a clean face
Bring a sun hat and sun glasses with you to the appointment for immediate use post procedure
Do not wear contact lenses
You may eat as usual but do not drink a large amount of fluids before the procedure and limit caffeine
Begin taking prescribed antibiotic medication if applicable
Take prescribed dose of antiviral medication if applicable
Arrive on time for your laser treatment and plan to be at our office for at least 2 hours
If applicable, you can shave the morning of treatment but do not apply lotions or aftershave on or around the areas being treated
Wear comfortable clothes that will allow access to the treated areas
Do not wear jewelry near the treatment area (earrings, facial piercings, necklaces)
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Hand washing is the most important thing you can do to prevent infection. Wash your hands every time before you touch treated area.
Remember to finish all of your oral medication as prescribed.
A soft diet for the first 24 hours is recommended. Avoid salt and alcohol. Increase fluids.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 7 days. Walking is okay. Avoid working up a sweat.
Do not expose your skin to the sun. Remember, UV light can pass through house and car windows.
Call us if you experience any one of the following:
Pain that is not relieved by acetaminophen.
Signs of infection: heavy white to yellow drainage in treated area, foul odor from drainage, a fever of 100.4°F or above, extreme tenderness and heat to touch, severe itching or tingling.
If you are unsure about infection and cannot reach us, please go to an urgent care or ER. If you are experiencing respiratory distress or feel you have an emergency, please call 911.
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Do not shower or bathe.
Keep the treated area covered with Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm.
If any oozing, dab gently with clean 4x4 gauze if needed.
Reapply Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm as needed.
Ice packs may be applied ON-TOP of moistened gauze (use distlled water).
After icing, reapply Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm as needed.
*PLEASE NOTE: DO NOT APPLY ICE PACKS DIRECTLY TO SKIN.
If desired, you may spray water mist on skin using distilled or spring water.
You may take an Acetaminophen for discomfort.
Sleep on 2 pillows or in a recliner at night, lying on back if possible, to reduce swelling and promote healing. You may want to cover your pillow with a towel to prevent staining from ointment.
VINEGAR SOAKS
Begin vinegar soaks every 2 hours (while awake) with prepared solution by doing the following:
Wash hands thoroughly with soap, rinse and dry before the vinegar soaks.
Place 5-10 gauzes inside a clean bowl and carefully add in vinegar water until all gauzes are saturated.
Designate the non-dominant hand as the "clean" hand for retrieving wet gauze, and then transfer the gauze to the dominant hand for cleansing.
Use the gauze to gently pat off oozing/bleeding/occlusive ointment on treated area(s).
Use gentle pressure.
Once the face is clean, use fresh vinegar soaked gauze and place them in contact with the treated areas of skin for at least 5 minutes. Soak longer for area with crusting.
Gently rinse face with cool water and pat dry.
Always apply occlusive ointment (Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm) over entire treated area after the vinegar soaks.
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Do not shower or bathe.
Keep the treated area covered with Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm.
If any oozing, dab gently with clean 4x4 gauze if needed.
Reapply Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm as needed.
Ice packs may be applied ON-TOP of moistened gauze (use distlled water).
After icing, reapply Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm as needed.
*PLEASE NOTE: DO NOT APPLY ICE PACKS DIRECTLY TO SKIN.
If desired, you may spray water mist on skin using distilled or spring water.
You may take an Acetaminophen for discomfort.
You may take benadryl for itching.
Sleep on 2 pillows or in a recliner at night, lying on back if possible, to reduce swelling and promote healing. You may want to cover your pillow with a towel to prevent staining from ointment.
VINEGAR SOAKS
Continue vinegar soaks every 2 hours (while awake) with prepared solution by doing the following:
Wash hands thoroughly with soap, rinse and dry before the vinegar soaks.
Place 5-10 gauzes inside a clean bowl and carefully add in vinegar water until all gauzes are saturated.
Designate the non-dominant hand as the "clean" hand for retrieving wet gauze, and then transfer the gauze to the dominant hand for cleansing.
Use the gauze to gently pat off oozing/bleeding/occlusive ointment on treated area(s).
Use gentle pressure.
Once the face is clean, use fresh vinegar soaked gauze and place them in contact with the treated areas of skin for at least 5 minutes. Soak longer for area with crusting.
Gently rinse face with cool water and pat dry.
Always apply occlusive ointment (Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm) over entire treated area after the vinegar soaks.
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It is okay to shower once you are 48 hours out from your procedure, but use lukewarm water to avoid generating steam and avoid direct pressure to the treated areas.
You may wash your face as below but use fingertips only, be gentle, and pat dry.
DO NOT PICK ANY CRUSTING AS THIS CAN LEAD TO SCARRING.
Decrease frequency of vinegar soaks to every 4 hours.
Continue to apply Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm after each vinegar soak.
Generally, ensure the treated areas are covered with Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm.
You may take an Acetaminophen for discomfort.
Sleep on 2 pillows or in a recliner at night, lying on back if possible, to reduce swelling and promote healing. You may want to cover your pillow with a towel to prevent staining from ointment.
RECOMMENDED SKINCARE ROUTINE
AM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm.
PM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm.
VINEGAR SOAKS
Use vinegar soaks every 4 hours (while awake) with prepared solution by doing the following:
Wash hands thoroughly with soap, rinse and dry before the vinegar soaks.
Place 5-10 gauzes inside a clean bowl and carefully add in vinegar water until all gauzes are saturated.
Designate the non-dominant hand as the "clean" hand for retrieving wet gauze, and then transfer the gauze to the dominant hand for cleansing.
Use the gauze to gently pat off oozing/bleeding/occlusive ointment on treated area(s).
Use gentle pressure.
Once the face is clean, use fresh vinegar soaked gauze and place them in contact with the treated areas of skin for at least 5 minutes. Soak longer for area with crusting.
Gently rinse face with cool water and pat dry.
Always apply occlusive ointment (Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm) over entire treated area after the vinegar soaks.
-
It is okay to shower, but use lukewarm water to avoid generating steam and avoid direct pressure to the treated areas.
You may wash your face as below but use fingertips only, be gentle, and pat dry.
DO NOT PICK ANY CRUSTING AS THIS CAN LEAD TO SCARRING.
Generally, ensure the treated areas are covered with Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm.
Decrease frequency of vinegar soaks to 3 times per day.
You may take an Acetaminophen for discomfort.
You may take benadryl for itching.
RECOMMENDED SKINCARE ROUTINE
AM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm.
PM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm.
VINEGAR SOAKS
Use vinegar soaks every three times per day (while awake) with prepared solution by doing the following:
Wash hands thoroughly with soap, rinse and dry before the vinegar soaks.
Place 5-10 gauzes inside a clean bowl and carefully add in vinegar water until all gauzes are saturated.
Designate the non-dominant hand as the "clean" hand for retrieving wet gauze, and then transfer the gauze to the dominant hand for cleansing.
Use the gauze to gently pat off oozing/bleeding/occlusive ointment on treated area(s).
Use gentle pressure.
Once the face is clean, use fresh vinegar soaked gauze and place them in contact with the treated areas of skin for at least 5 minutes. Soak longer for area with crusting.
Gently rinse face with cool water and pat dry.
Always apply occlusive ointment (Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm) over entire treated area after the vinegar soaks.
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If you have any remaining dry, rough patches, you can spot treat with the occlusive ointment (Alastin Soothe and Recovery Balm), as needed
Stop vinegar soaks
Recommended skincare routine:
AM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology®.
Apply SilkSHIELD All-Mineral SPF 30 with TriHex Technology®.
PM
Cleanse with Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream.
Apply Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology®.
Apply Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology®.
As Needed
Mineral makeup can be used on top of sunscreen as needed.
Mineral makeup ensures you maintain clear pores, and allowing your skin to breathe and heal properly over time.
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Return to recommended skincare routine.
Minimize sun exposure.
Continue sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and the recommended sunscreen.
You may resume exercise. Your skin will appear red/flushed with exercise.
Recommended skincare routine:
AM
Cleanse with recommended cleanser.
Use recommended skincare products.
Use recommended moisturizer.
Apply recommended mineral sunscreen (should be at least SPF 30)
PM
Cleanse with recommended cleanser.
Use recommended skincare products.
Use recommended moisturizer.
As needed
Mineral makeup can be used on top of sunscreen as needed.
Mineral makeup ensures you maintain clear pores, and allowing your skin to breathe and heal properly over time.