Blog with Dr. IrwinTag >> Carbon Dioxide Lasers Is there a way to fix a noticeable facial asymmetry on my left?Posted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Sculptra, Fillers, Facial rejuvenation, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Dec 21, 2011 | Permalink Hello Dr. Irwin I LOVE your site! With that said, I've taken the time to go through quite a bit of your blog to get my question answered and still cant quite pin down what I'm looking for. So here is a bit about me and my question will follow.
I just turned 40. The left side of my face is significantly more lax in skin texture (very visible) than my right. The other problem is I have significantly more pronounced crows feet/lines under the left side of my eye opposed to the right as well.
I'm hoping to get the left side to match the age on my right...at least the best I can. I HAVE started botox for all my problem areas. Great stuff.
I've read great things about your thermage treatments and the tightening effects on the skin. I've also read great things on your DOT laser experience and results as well. My question is which one would you suggest to get the skin tightening results I so desperately want and also treat the pronounced crows feet?
Thank you!
Thank you! It would be interesting to have you look back at photos when you were 16-25. Can you see the asymmetry even back then or younger? Some people have an inborn (genetic)... more How long do I need to wait after Accutane treatment before I can have my scars treated.Posted in Lasers, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Acne Scars, Acne, 2011 on Dec 08, 2011 | Permalink I got off of Accutane in June. I have some acne scars and would like to use the Fraxel laser. How long do I have to wait? I don't want there to be any complications.
The short answer is this that if you are thinking full face traditional ablative CO2 resurfacing, then you need to wait a full year. If you are considering the Fraxel or the What is the difference between these two lasers?Posted in Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Oct 24, 2011 | Permalink Hello,
May you please advise on the difference between Fractional CO2 Laser and Fractional Affirm Laser?? tnx
These are both fractionated (sometimes also called pixilated) CO2 lasers. The first term is a generic way to describe all the CO2 lasers while the last one is a specific brand. Here's a... more
Who performs Fraxel an aesthetician or an MD?Posted in Lasers, Finding a Good Doctor, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Oct 24, 2011 | Permalink Who performs Fraxel an aesthetician or an MD?
I know this is really confusing to consumers because the use of cosmetic lasers are governed by laws and statutes controlled by the states in the United States. In other countries, legal... more What is the latest laser technology for acne scars?Posted in Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Acne Scars, 2011 on Oct 17, 2011 | Permalink Dear Dr. Irwin,
Kindly advise on the latest technology in acne scars after the Fraxel laser. I heard there's a new kind of laser recently released but i really cant remember it's name. Thank you. -Areej
Here is a link to the article I wrote on fractionated CO2 lasers. Sometimes in our practice here, we will combine several modalities like subscision, CO2 or Fraxel, and certain fillers... more
Fractionated laser systems vs. radiofrequencyPosted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Radiofrequency systems, Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Sep 03, 2011 | Permalink Hi there --
I thought your comparison of fractionated laser systems was very interesting. Could you compare these results with results/downtime of the eMatrix sublative rejuvenation system (radio frequency waves)?
Thanks,
Ginge I've never seen a radiofrenquency system that equaled the overall results of a well done fractionated CO2 treatment with a good system (like Deka or the new Cynosure CO2). BUT, if you are... more
I have multiple acne scars on my chest and back. What can I do?Posted in Scars, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Acne Scars, Acne, 2011 on May 25, 2011 | Permalink Hi,
I have body acne and over the years the number of breakouts has diminished but has left a lot of scars which of them are mostly skin discoloration. I am dark skinned. I have tried varies things like micro crystal dermabrasion, topical cremes and glycol peels. I was not sure about the peel first but then I have tried most of the stuff out there and risked it and it left a couple of very dark spots which hasn't faded even a little bit after 2 months. I am starting to feel that the only option would be expensive laser treatments. I would really appreciate if you could offer me some advice. Thanks.
I really agree with your conclusion on this. With most acne scarring, it is deep enough that superficial treatments like microdermabrasion, creams and glycolic peels won't help much. ... more
What is better for antiaging-Thermage or Fraxel?Posted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Lasers, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on May 22, 2011 | Permalink What is the best anti aging for face & neck ... thermage or fraxel. I'd like to prevent or improve sagging and wrinkles. My eyelids are bad and I'm starting to get wrinkles over my lips. I've been using Botox & restylane but am thinking after reading your article that Sculptra may be better.
This depends on many factors like your age, the amount of sagging you have, severity of wrinkles, and your facial contours, etc. As a general guideline, if you are under 45ish and you... more
Can the CO2 DOT laser improve stretch marks?Posted in Stretch marks, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Body Treatments, 2011 on May 06, 2011 | Permalink I have loose skin mixed with light stretch marks around my belly button following my pregnancy 5 1/2 months ago. I am lucky to be back down to my weight (104 lbs. and 5'2, fair skinned), but I am left with some record of my pregnancy on my abdomen! I have been told that my stretch marks are minimal. If I pull my stomach skin tight, you can't even see them. I have heard the C02 DOT laser is very promising in removing stretch marks. My question is, have you heard anything more on this laser to make you believe it actually is effective in removing stretch marks? I am willing to spend money to make them heal, but I just want to know I won't be wasting it. Thank you for your time.
I'm going to say a tentative yes on this one. While there isn't much data available yet, different centers around the country are doing it and getting definite improvement in blending the... more
Is it okay to do the DOT laser before treating rosacea?Posted in Rosacea, Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Mar 23, 2011 | Permalink Hello Doctor Irwin, Fantastic site! I'm 39, fair skinned with plenty of sun damage and considering your DOT laser treatment. However, I do have rosacea on my nose and a bit on my cheeks. Nothing over the top, just redness and some broken blood vessels on my nostril areas. Is it necessary to take care of my rosacea before your DOT laser treatment?
Thanks so Much!
DC
In general, it's nice for your rosacea to be under control at least before undertaking a fractionated CO2 laser treatment like the DOT. I'm assuming you're avoiding your particular... more What is the difference between a chemical peel and a laser treatment for fine lines and wrinkles?Posted in Wrinkles, Peels, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Feb 16, 2011 | Permalink What is difference in improvement between a chemical peel and a laser treatment? Do they both work to treat wrinkles and fine lines?
This is a good question because I think many are puzzled by this also. I'd like to give you the broad differences and then links to two places in the site for more information. Since you... more What is the best timing for Sculptra and a fractionated CO2 laser?Posted in Sculptra, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Jan 28, 2011 | Permalink I have had two sculptra sessions-receiving one vial at each session. My Dr. and I think I will benefit from a total of four. I am now thinking that I would like a Fraxel repair CO2 laser treatment. How soon after the sculptra series can I have this treatment-or can it be done during the series?
In general, I recommend finishing (or being close to it) the volume replacement with the Sculptra before the CO2 laser. If you have more dermal support and volume in your face with the... more How many Fraxels are enough?Posted in Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Jan 24, 2011 | Permalink I've been having a series of Fraxel treatments on my face for both pigmentation and to improve skin texture. One practioner has told me that I can only have 5 treatments in the first year and then once every year following that Another provider has told me that I can continue to have as many treatments as I choose provided there is at least 4 weeks apart. Can you share your opinion on the number of fraxel that is most beneficial. Thank you.
I think that depends on how much improvement you are seeing with each treatment. If the Fraxel settings are good you should be getting about 15-20% coverage with each treatment so at... more What would you recommend as a first step to enlarged pores on the cheeks?Posted in Lasers, Large Pores and Texture, Large pores, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2011 on Jan 22, 2011 | Permalink What would you recommend as a first step to enlarged pores on the cheeks. I am 48.
Thanks
Deanna
Hi Deanna. If they aren't too large, I would recommend Fraxel (the original - not the Fraxel CO2). You will probably need to do a series of at least 3 to see a real difference. If they... more
Is a fractionated CO2 laser safe on darker skin types to treat acne scarring?Posted in Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, African american skin, Acne Scars, 2010 on Nov 28, 2010 | Permalink Hi Dr Irwin
I was just browsing your website doign research on Fractionated CO2 lasers. I see it mentiond that it can be adjusted on more darker skin types to be safe. Can you elaborate if this is a viable and safe option for treatment of acne scars (ice pick/rolling types) on darker skin types? I see various websites listing CO2 as not safe on darker skin types though so i am curious if you can shed some more light on how it works on darker skin types and what are potential complications and recovery times especially for acne scars
Thank you for asking this. The answer is yes with some restrictions. First, you must go to an expert who has a lot of experience because the right settings really matter. They need to... more
What do you think of Dot therapy for skin tightening on the face and neck?Posted in Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Nov 20, 2010 | Permalink What do you think of Dot therapy for skin tightening on the face and neck?
I've been working with this laser for about 7 months now fairly intensively and I am very impressed. It's actually exceeded my expectations and those of you who read me frequently know I... more What is the difference between the "DOT" and Thermage?Posted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Nov 10, 2010 | Permalink --------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Irwin,
I am 59 years old and am considering DOT therapy. However, I do not know a single person who has actually had this proceedure. Can you explain the difference between Dot and Thermage?
Thanks so much for your time...Brenda
Dear Brenda - There is a big difference because Thermage uses radiofrequency (a sound wave) and has a gentle skin tightening effect. There is no recovery time from it in general because... more Chloasma/melasma - are lasers safe especially on darker skin types?Posted in Peels, Melasma, IPL, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Brown Spots, 2010 on Oct 11, 2010 | Permalink Hello Dr Irwin,
I have very lage dark brown spots on each cheek which appeared in 1999. They have been diagnosed as chloasma. I consulted three dermatologists between 2000 and 2005, two of whom advised me that laser or peeling techniques were not recommended for Asian skin types , I have Indo-European origins. Therefore I have only used depigmenting creams which had no effect and in fact the spots have increased in size in recent years.
My question is: have laser techniques advanced since 2005 and are there any now which would provide a good result on my skin type?
Thank you So first, I'm assuming you've had these spots looked at in the past year by a dermatologist to make sure they are not skin cancer! Then, this is a tough question and not all dermatologists... more Can skin on the neck be tightened non surgically?Posted in Necks, Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Oct 09, 2010 | Permalink Is there anything sort of a face lift to tighten the skin on the neck. I had a neck lift (muscle too) 5 years ago and there is still loose skin on one side. Surgeon said a face lift will fix it but I do not need a face lift.
Even a year ago, I probably would have said "no, don't waste your money." But the newer fractionated CO2 lasers look promising, although the data is early and sparse. It can often... more Which laser is best in my situation?Posted in Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Oct 03, 2010 | Permalink I am a 61 yr old female with fairly decent skin. I would like to get rid of lines on my cheeks and other fine lines on my face. I get Botox several times a year and I am using all of your recommended products. I do not have brown spots or acne.
What lasar would be appropriate for me?
At 61, you'll get the most result with a fractionated carbon dioxide laser like the DEKA DOT or the Lumenis Active/Deep Fx. Please see our section section on Finding a Good... more
What is the best treatment for vertical lines over the lips?Posted in Lips, Fraxel laser, Fillers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Sep 17, 2010 | Permalink What is the best treatment for vertical lines over the lips?
I wish there was one "slam/dunk" treatment for vertical upper lip lines. They can be 80-90% corrected but it takes a little time, money and patience. There really is no one treatment... more Is there a non-surgical way to shorten the distance between nose and mouth?Posted in Lips, JuvedermRestylane, Juvederm and Restylane, Fillers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Sep 17, 2010 | Permalink Dr. Irwin, as I've aged, the distance from my nose to lip has lengthened and my lips have also flattened. Is there a non-surgical way to shorten the appearance between nose and mouth, and to make my upper lip go up and out so they're not so flat looking?
The answer to this is yes ........but depending on the exact anatomy. You didn't tell me how old you are. If you're 80, it will be much harder than if you are 50. The bony structure of... more For a 44 yo female, what would be the best laser to tighten after weight loss?Posted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Lasers, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Sep 11, 2010 | Permalink Hi Dr. I,
Your website is fantastic! Thank you for taking time out of your very busy life and answering our questions. I am a Vietnamese 44 y/o female, and have lost 20 lbs. over the past 4 mo. I have very good skin with no wrinkles, or discoloration. My facial skin is now lax on the cheek and neck. what is the safest and best laser treatment for this? There are so many types out there?
Thank you! The answer to this really depends on how much extra skin you really have. If you have a lot, surgery could be the best answer. But at 44, Thermage could be a great option for... more
Is there any type of laser procedure that will lighten dark undereye circles?Posted in Lasers, Eyelid Treatments, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on Jul 19, 2010 | Permalink Is there any type of laser procedure that will lighten dark undereye circles?
Lasers don't always work for this but a series of 2-3 fractionated CO2 (like the DEKA DOT or Lumenis Active/Deep Fx) laser treatments would be your best choice. Be sure to go to an... more
Is there any help for crepey skin on the back of the arms?Posted in Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Body Treatments, Body Thermage, 2010 on Jun 29, 2010 | Permalink What to do about crepey skin on side and back of arms - have been exercising - no help
A few years ago, I would have said no and told you to please not waste your money with offices making false promises. But ........... now there's beginning to be some very interesting... more Would fractionated carbon dioxide laser be helpful for me with acne scars?Posted in Scars, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, Acne Scars, 2010 on Jun 03, 2010 | Permalink
Re: Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser
I was most interested in your article on this laser. I have acne-related scars including depressions in my skin. Also, I had some hypertrophic scars excised, which resulted in deeper depressions. To date I have done 5 treatments of Fraxel at ever increasing strengths. I have just had 2 treatments 3 weeks apart at Fraxel's highest level (i.e. level 12). Yet I STILL have the aforementioned scars. They have faded a bit, but they're still there and quite noticeable. Do you think the Fractionated Carbon Dioxide Laser would be a good option for me. If the answer is yes, do you know of a dermatologist located in NYC who has the necessary expertise w/ this laser? Thanks for your help, Simone
It's a bit difficult without being able to see you or knowing your age. But, yes, usually the fractionated CO2 is more effective than the Fraxel Restore for acne scarring. If you are 30... more Are there any non surgical treatments for stretchmarks on the abdomen that work?Posted in Stretch marks, Fraxel laser, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on May 23, 2010 | Permalink Hello Dr. Irwin...
Thankfully my question isn't about treatments for my face. However I figured you may still be very well able to answer it. My skin problem is all over my abdomen. (stretchmarks) My stomach is for the most part-flat, so I really wouldn't need a "Tummy -tuck" but is there anything I can do besides surgery to remove these unsightly marks?
Signed,
Hopeful
Well - first of all, let me tell you what doesn't work so you won't waste your money! Don't bother with body Thermage for stretchmarks. It's even questionable in my mind whether body... more
What is the best treatment for under eye crinkles?Posted in Thermage and Radiofrequency Devices, Thermage, Lasers, JuvedermRestylane, Juvederm and Restylane, Fraxel laser, Eyelid Treatments, Eye Creams, Crows Feet, Carbon Dioxide Lasers, 2010 on May 06, 2010 | Permalink What is the best treatment for the under eye crinkles? Is it thermage or fillers or retin a or something else? Thanks, Bonnie
This is such a complicated question because it depends on sooooo many factors. I'll try to make a long story short! But, please see the section on eyes on this site. If you just have a... more If you have to travel a good distance for Fraxel, is there a way to make it even more effective?Posted in Latisse, Fraxel laser, Eyelashes and Eyebrows, Carbon Dioxide Lasers on Mar 02, 2010 | Permalink Hi,
I live in alaska so cant come in every 4wks for a repeat of the faxel lazer so can you go a little deeper on just one treatment and how much does it cost.?? John turner turnerjcj2000@yahoo.com John - Basically Fraxel works best done in a series of 3-5 depending on your situation. It's possible to do a more aggressive treatment but, if you can really only get one treatment, you... more |
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