Complete Skin Renewal: Advanced CO2 Laser Resurfacing

At Frankel Facial Plastic Surgery, we combine artistic precision with state-of-the-art technology to deliver dramatic, natural-looking skin rejuvenation. For our Cleveland patients seeking to correct deep wrinkles, sun damage, and uneven texture, Dr. Frankel offers advanced CO2 laser skin resurfacing.

This gold-standard treatment precisely removes damaged outer skin layers while heating the deeper dermis to stimulate significant new collagen growth. The result is firmer, smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Because the CO2 laser targets significant structural changes for transformative, long-lasting results, it requires dedicated recovery time as fresh skin heals and regenerates.

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What Can CO2 Laser Resurfacing Do?

  • Reduce the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles
  • Improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks
  • Smooth rough or uneven skin texture
  • Minimize the appearance of enlarged pores
  • Trigger brand-new collagen growth
  • Address mild to severe hyperpigmentation
  • Stimulate new collagen production for firmer, healthier-looking skin

Who is a Candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

If you’re considering laser skin resurfacing in Cleveland, Mayfield Heights, or Beachwood, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. Those who make excellent candidates for this procedure are individuals who:

  • Are unhappy with their wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, scars, large pores, or uneven skin tone
  • Have elastic, non-oily skin 
  • Have a lighter skin tone
  • Do not have excessively thick or thin skin
  • Are in good overall health, with no pre-existing health conditions
  • Do not have active bacterial, viral, or fungal infections or mouth sores
  • Do not have a tendency to develop keloids or thick scars 
  • Have not used Accutane® for the past six months
  • Have not undergone other skin resurfacing procedures in the last 2-3 months
  • Fully understand the procedure, risks, and recovery process
  • Have realistic expectations for what CO2 laser skin resurfacing can do

What to Expect During CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing 

  • Be very aggressive about avoiding sun exposure before your treatment in order to prevent hyperpigmentation.
  • We may test your skin with the laser before full treatment.
  • The type of anesthesia used will be determined by the severity of your skin condition.
  • Your eyes will be fully protected during treatment.
  •  Dr. Frankel will determine the amount of energy to be used, and will control how deeply the laser penetrates. 
  • We will give you post-procedure home care instructions; it’s very important to carefully follow them.
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How CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Works

The CO2 laser is truly a state-of-the-art device, having been developed into a highly controllable piece of technology. Not only are damaged layers of skin vaporized, but this happens in a way that can be fine-tuned for customization and added safety. The laser can address the entire face, or specific areas only.

Another new innovation that makes CO2 laser skin resurfacing different is the heat that the procedure creates. This heat makes the collagen within the skin shrink and contract, which achieves a lifting effect. Many other lasers do not provide this collagen contraction.

woman applying cream to her face

Your Recovery Journey

Recovery time from CO2 laser skin resurfacing varies from patient to patient and will depend on the depth of the treatment. Pain is usually fairly mild if you closely follow the home care instructions we provide you with.

Some patients experience blisters developing in the treated area. If this happens, leave them alone and let it resolve on its own. You may also have oozing and swelling for 3–10 days, so careful wound care will be required. Your skin will be red and sensitive, and this redness may last anywhere from a few weeks to three months. During this entire healing phase, it is vital to strictly avoid direct sun exposure and wear a medical-grade broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your fresh, vulnerable skin and lock in your rejuvenating results.

Results

You will have new surface skin in 5-10 days. At this point, most patients return to work. Makeup can usually be applied two weeks after treatment. For the first six weeks, you’ll need to avoid too much sun exposure and be extremely diligent about sun protection. Otherwise, you risk developing irregular pigmentation.

Risks associated with CO2 laser skin resurfacing include, but are not limited to, infection, irregular pigmentation, extended redness, and scarring. 

With a solid, aesthetician-approved skincare regimen, CO2 laser skin resurfacing results can last for years.

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Schedule a Consultation

(216) 294-4277
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Why Choose Dr. Frankel for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Specializing in facial rejuvenation, Frankel Facial Plastic Surgery is the premier center for facial plastic surgery in Cleveland. Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Frankel has extensive expertise in procedures of the face and neck, and his education and training allow him to deliver consistent and outstanding results — at a good value. Our practice is patient-centered, with a boutique feel and designed for patient comfort and privacy. We offer concierge-type service that makes patients feel heard and understood, and we do our best to make patients feel as comfortable as possible during every point of the process. If you’re considering CO2 laser skin resurfacing in Cleveland, we encourage you to contact us to learn more.

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Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs

How should I prepare my skin at home in the weeks leading up to my treatment?

Can I wear my normal skincare products right after the procedure?

Can the CO2 laser treat delicate skin, like the eyelids or around the lips?

When is the best time of year to schedule a CO2 laser treatment?

How should I prepare my skin at home in the weeks leading up to my treatment?

In addition to strictly avoiding sun exposure for at least one month prior, Dr. Frankel may recommend starting a specific medical-grade skincare regimen (such as a gentle pigment-suppressing cream or tretinoin) to prepare your skin's cellular turnover. This ensures more uniform laser penetration and smoother healing.

Can I wear my normal skincare products right after the procedure?

No, not right away. Your fresh, regenerating skin will be highly vulnerable immediately after treatment. You will need to pause your normal skincare routine, especially active ingredients like retinols, Vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants—and use only the specialized recovery ointments provided by our team until your new surface skin has completely formed.

Can the CO2 laser treat delicate skin, like the eyelids or around the lips?

Yes, Dr. Frankel specializes in face and neck procedures, and frequently uses the CO2 laser for targeted periorbital (eyelid) and perioral (around the mouth) resurfacing. This is an exceptional, precise option for smoothing out 'smoker's lines' or correcting a crepey texture under the eyes.

When is the best time of year to schedule a CO2 laser treatment?

While CO2 laser resurfacing can be performed year-round, many patients choose to schedule their treatment during the fall or winter months. Because strict sun avoidance is required for several weeks following the procedure, it is often easier to complete your recovery journey when outdoor activities and UV exposure are naturally limited.

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