CO2 Laser Treatments
Atlanta, Georgia

Lasers, of which there are many types, resurface by the discharge of energy from light that is absorbed by molecules in the tissue being treated. For example, the CO2 laser light is absorbed by water molecules. Any tissue with water (skin being the most salient example) will absorb the light from this laser and ultimately transform this energy into heat. Thus a thermal injury will occur-a burn.

CO2 laser treatments are the most commonly used laser for skin resurfacing. To complicate matters, though, there are different types of CO2 units. Their differences have to do with the amount of energy delivered to a given area over a period of time. The clinical effect (benefit as well as an unwanted side effect) is a product of the variables of laser light delivered. The newest is the Unipulse which minimizes much of the morbidity but cosmetically rivals the other CO2 lasers. It is, at least for now, the laser we use at the Center for Plastic Surgery.

The erbium laser is the latest non-CO2 laser treatment for resurfacing. It is mainly intended for very shallow wrinkles. Its effect on deeper skin problems is minimal. This laser allows for relatively rapid healing and has minimal morbidity.

What is important to remember is the complexity of treatment options. Skin restoration is very individualized and should be undertaken only when benefits are predictably expected and unwanted side effects are modest or non-existent. This can only be accomplished by a trained and experienced professional.

Laser Treatment Patient Gallery

View laser treatment results and see the quality of Dr. Zubowicz’s work in the before & after gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lasers

Resurfacing of the skin can be accomplished mechanically, chemically, or thermally. Regardless of technique, the strategy is to create a level of injury to the skin whereby healing of that injury results in improved appearance of the skin. The desired level of treatment can be accomplished mechanically (dermabrasion), chemically (chemical peels), or thermally (laser).

As the skin repairs from this planned injury, changes emerge that make the skin look younger. Discoloration, wrinkles, and even deeper furrows and be eliminated by proper treatment. The specific choice of therapy is dependent upon the condition and type of skin.

Unwanted side effects can accompany resurfacing. This can include increased sensitivity to the sun, unwanted lightening or darkening of the skin, The deeper the treatment the more likely these are to be seen. There must clearly be an understanding of all issues before the patient submits to treatment. Proper management of the patient must involve the input of a knowledgeable professional. Skin condition, lifestyle, previous treatments, anticipated treatments and skin type all influence the choice, if any, of skin resurfacing. Patients must understand that some changes may be permanent and be prepared to make adjustments in their routines to accommodate them.

Lasers, of which there are many types, resurface by the discharge of energy from light that is absorbed by molecules in the tissue being treated. For example, the CO2 laser light is absorbed by water molecules. Any tissue with water (which includes skin) will absorb the light from this laser and ultimately transform this energy into heat. Thus a planned thermal injury will occur. The healing from the laser treatment creates aesthetically desirable changes. There are different lasers for specific problems.

The Quantum Laser Center has used a CO2 laser for many years for skin rejuvenation. It is very effective for treatment of extensive skin damage-deep wrinkles, dark discoloration, and contour problems. For patients who have lesser issues, the CO2 laser is too aggressive a treatment. Only patients who will benefit from delivery of laser energy will be treated in our unit. We won’t use them simply because we own them.

First and foremost, individuals that don’t need it. Lasers are powerful tools for treating specific problems. They are not prophylaxis against skin aging.
Darker skin types may be poor candidates for laser therapy, especially deep treatments which the CO2 laser delivers.