CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is a non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatment designed to improve skin tone, texture, and overall appearance. It works by delivering controlled laser energy into targeted layers of the skin, encouraging natural collagen production and the replacement of damaged skin cells.

This treatment is commonly used to address:

• Fine lines and deeper wrinkles
• Sun damage and pigmentation irregularities
• Freckles and age spots
• Acne scars and uneven skin texture
• Mild skin laxity (skin tightening effect)

Fractional CO2 laser is considered one of the most effective resurfacing technologies available for more advanced skin aging concerns.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing offers both cosmetic and structural skin improvements, including:

• Smoother skin texture
• Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
• Improved skin firmness through collagen stimulation
• Fading of sun damage and pigmentation
• Long-lasting rejuvenation results

Most patients see results that last 3–5 years or longer, since CO2 laser resurfacing rebuilds collagen deep within the skin. Longevity depends on aging, sun exposure, and skincare habits.

At Stevens Facial Plastic & Laser Center, your procedure is performed in-office using topical and/or local anesthesia to maximize comfort. In some cases, IV sedation may be available if requested.

The treatment typically takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on the size and condition of the treatment area.

The laser is precisely applied in a fractional pattern, treating only a portion of the skin at a time while leaving surrounding tissue intact. This allows for faster healing and improved safety compared to older resurfacing methods.

Recovery time varies based on the intensity of treatment and your individual skin response.

• Stronger treatments (deep wrinkles or scars): Approximately 7–14 days of visible downtime, with redness and peeling during early healing.
• Lighter resurfacing treatments: Shorter recovery period with reduced peeling and faster return to normal activities.

Following treatment, skin typically remains pink or red for 4–6 weeks as collagen remodeling continues beneath the surface.

Patients are often able to return to work within 1–2 weeks, depending on comfort level and treatment depth.

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is best suited for patients who want noticeable improvement in skin quality without undergoing surgery.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles or sun damage
• Want to improve skin texture or acne scarring
• Are in generally good health
• Have realistic expectations about recovery time and results

Important Considerations

Skin tone plays a role in candidacy. Patients with lighter skin tones typically experience the most predictable results, while those with deeper skin tones may have a higher risk of pigmentation changes. A consultation is required to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.

Your treatment is performed by Douglas Stevens, a facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation procedures and advanced laser technologies.

Dr. Stevens takes a personalized approach to treatment planning, focusing on natural-looking results and selecting the most appropriate laser depth and technique for each patient’s skin condition and goals.

Patients frequently report improvements in skin confidence, texture, and overall appearance following treatment.

“Dr Steven’s has everything that I would want in a plastic surgeon. I had gotten to the point of not wanting to look in the mirror. I am thrilled with my results of my co2 laser!”

“I have never done anything like laser before and my experience with the office was wonderful. They were very thorough in explaining the procedure and keeping me informed.”

“I look forward to going to Dr. Stevens office. From the minute you walk into the office the great experience starts by the happy friendly greetings from the staff. My treatments are always perfect and I get amazing results. The whole team is amazing!”

Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is often part of a broader facial rejuvenation plan. Depending on your skin quality and aging concerns, it may be combined with or sequenced alongside other treatments to achieve more comprehensive results.

Commonly combined treatments include:

• Botox® for expression lines and wrinkle prevention
• Dermal fillers for volume restoration and facial balance
• Chemical peels or microneedling for lighter texture refinement
• Facelift for lifting and repositioning sagging facial tissue

Eyelid surgery for under-eye aging and excess skin