How dependent are the results of Fraxel CO2 on the doctor's skills and experience?

The Fractional CO2 Resurfacing laser is dependent of the assessment skills of the provider. Pre-treatment and post-treatment skin care is also vital for the quick recovery and reduction of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially when dealing with skin of color such as Hispanic or Asian.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is crucial. It is up to the physician to the determine the setting of the laser. This is based upon the severity of the problem, area being treated, skin type, and desired result. This knowledge is based upon training and level of experience. The more experienced the physician the better the result and the lower the potential risk. The difference between
a good and bad physician is similar to a good and bad contractor. If you want the house to be done right, a bad contractor will always give you problems and eventually it will cost more in time and money.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

That's an excellent question and should not be limited to Doctors. In many states, RN's ARNP's or PA's can performed ablative laser treatments. Experience matters for all the above titles. It's not simply a set it and forget type of treatment. The energy used can vary greatly on different areas of a patients face. Knowing when to raise, lower or push the standard protocols only comes from experience. I would ask whoever is performing the
treatment how many of specific treatments they have performed with that laser. I would also ask how many specific treatments they've done for your condition. As an example if a Doctor performed 50 general resurfacing treatments and you are coming in for acne scars and they've never done one, I'd be a bit cautious. Bottom line, experience and skill does matter.

Published on Jul 11, 2012