Ablative Skin Rejuvenation

Ablative skin rejuvenation is a procedure that helps to stimulate the production of collagen and growth factors in the skin to improve the appearance of scarred, aged or sun-damaged skin. Ablative fractional CO2 or Erbium: YAG lasers have the ability to remove microscopic zones of skin tissue. Bridges of untouched skin between the treated columns allow rapid healing and regeneration. The heated treatment columns stimulate the skin’s natural healing response resulting in enhanced collagen production over time that rejuvenates the skin from the inside out. The skin appears refreshed, smoother and more youthful. Cosmetic results are seen several weeks to months after treatment as the collagen stimulation process continues.

Ablative Skin Rejuvenation at Capital Laser & Skin Care

Before treatment, a topical anesthetic is applied to the skin. Depending on the planned areas for treatment, medications may also be provided. Please allow 2½ hours for the pre-treatment preparation, laser surgery, and recovery period. Transportation home from the office will need to be pre-arranged (patients are not permitted to drive by themselves).

What Are The Side Effects Of Ablative Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing?

  • Patients experience redness, swelling, and slight crusting and oozing. These usually subside within 3-7 days with regular application of ice and prescribed healing ointments. A light pink appearance to the skin may last an additional 7-14 days, but can be camouflaged with make-up.
  • Infrequently, a cold sore breakout can occur despite pre-treatment anti-viral medication. Therefore, please inform the doctor before the laser surgery if a history of cold sores exists.
  • Prescriptions for medications to take prior to and during the healing phase of the procedure will be provided. These medications will help to decrease the risk of infection.
  • Long-term risks of discoloration and scarring are rare, but can potentially occur whenever there is disruption of the skin’s surface. Strict adherence to all advised pre- and post-operative instructions will reduce the possibility of unwanted side effects and complications.

Your ablative skin rejuvenation procedure will be performed in the privacy of one of our own in-office suites. When you come in for your consultation, we will analyze your skin and listen carefully to your goals and expectations to create a customized plan for improving the look of your skin. Depending on the condition of your skin, we may recommend more than one treatment to obtain optimal results.

Interested in learning more about our ablative skin rejuvenation? We would love to speak with you. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our Chevy Chase, MD office today at (301) 798-9699 to schedule your private consultation at our laser and cosmetic dermatology center, located just blocks away from Washington, D.C.