FAQ
Am I a good candidate for spider vein treatments?
You are a good candidate for spider vein treatments if you have realistic expectations about the results, and understand that the treatments do not necessarily stop the development of future veins. Also, the best candidates are not breastfeeding or pregnant. If you are between 30 and 60 years old, and are good at following pre-procedure and after-procedure guidelines, you should realize a successful outcome.
How much does it cost to have spider veins treated?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it costs $350, on average per session with sclerotherapy, or around $450 to treat the veins using a laser.
Who is an ideal candidate for CO2 resurfacing?
CO2 resurfacing is the ideal treatment for an individual with fine wrinkles, scars or blemishes in light-skinned individuals. However, people with darker skin types can also be candidates knowing that the energy and density used have to be lowered in order to avoid complications; thus requiring more sessions.
Can CO2 resurfacing be used on other areas of the skin besides the facial area?
Yes but the treatments need to be more careful given that in many of these places there are no sebaceous glands that help promote rapid healing. CO2 fractional laser is one of the preferred choice for surgical scars and stretch marks off the face.
Can CO2 resurfacing improve the look of jowls?
If you want to also treat jowls, your best bet is to have a facelift. CO2 resurfacing is primarily used for patients who have superficial wrinkles and a minimal amount of laxity or looseness in the facial area.
Can I get rid of my acne satisfactorily by opting for CO2 resurfacing?
You really cannot treat an acne flare-up with CO2 resurfacing. While this treatment does address problems with scars from previous acne breakouts, it can worsen an acne condition if the patient experiences frequent flare-ups. Therefore, if you have recurring flare-ups you should reconsider having CO2 resurfacing.
Could I experience complications from CO2 resurfacing if I am prone to cold sores?
Yes. CO2 laser resurfacing can stimulate the formation of cold sores after the procedure. If you fall under this category, the doctor may prescribe an anti-viral medicine to reduce the possibility of getting the lesions.
What parts of the face can be resurfaced?
Any part of the facial area may be resurfaced. Most patients choose peri-orbital (around the eyes) resurfacing, or peri-oral (around the mouth) resurfacing, or resurfacing of both areas. These areas are treated to get rid of wrinkles and lines while the rest of the therapy is used to get rid of acne-type or traumatic scarring.
Will I remain awake during the CO2 resurfacing procedure?
If you choose to have a full facial resurfacing, you will be given the choice of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which will relax you while a local anesthetic is given. Taking this approach allows the patient to stay awake, without feeling discomfort during the therapy. A mild oral sedative may be administered to calm any feelings of stress.
Does CO2 resurfacing hurt?
No. You will feel little pain or discomfort during the surgery or when you recuperate.