Fractionated CO2 Laser San Diego
How Does CO2 Laser Treatment Work?
The CO2 laser works by removing the layers of skin that have begun to show the signs of aging. Sun damage, environmental exposure and simply genetics all contribute to skin that loses its luster over time. With the CO2 laser, you can get rid of these damaged outermost layers of skin, making way for newer, healthier, younger-looking skin cells in their place.
CO2 laser treatment also encourages the body to produce more collagen, the protein responsible for keeping the skin strong and healthy. With more collagen, the skin can withstand damage more effectively and look younger for longer periods of time.
What Can the CO2 Laser Treat?
The Phoenix 15 CO2 laser can address a wide range of skin concerns, including:
- Acne and traumatic scars
- Hyperpigmentation (sun spots, melasma, etc.)
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Dull, dehydrated skin
The Phoenix CO2 laser is especially effective for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eyes. When the skin is given a chance to restore itself, these unwanted lines will gradually begin to disappear.
The Best Candidates for CO2 Laser Treatment
- Interested in preventative care to get rid of early sun damage and stimulate collagen
- Are healthy and not taking Accutane or using nicotine products
- Wish to reflect your inner positive self
- Have sun damaged or aging skin of the face, neck, hands, or décolletage
- Interested in a non-surgical means of rejuvenation
What to Expect from a CO2 Laser Treatment at Restore SD: From Start to Finish
Your Consultation
On the day of your consultation, we will meet with you one on one to review your facial anatomy, your concerns and establish a plan for treatment. A period of skin care prior to laser treatment will enhance the results. In order to provide the safest outcome, you will also be prescribed antiviral medication to take prior to the laser procedure.
Your Treatment
Treatments are performed in our office and will begin by applying a local anesthetic to the skin to ensure your comfort. During the treatment we use the Zimmer Cryocooling technology to jet cold air onto the skin to minimize pain and heat during the treatment. Depending on the treatment areas, some patients prefer taking an oral sedative to relax them for the procedure. The Phoenix 15 CO2 Laser is specifically designed to provide customizable treatment, allowing our providers to control the depth of the treatment and adjust the expected recovery time based on your specific skin needs.
The fractionated technology allows for concentrated beams of energy to penetrate the skin surface, and actively remove the dead and damaged tissue without harming the surrounding area. The controlled skin injury stimulates new collagen production and skin tightening over time.
Recovery
While you will be able to return home immediately after your treatment, we usually advise that patients rest and avoid excessive sun exposure for a couple of days afterward. You can experience some swelling, skin peeling, and a sunburned appearance for up to two weeks. As your dead skin cells are shed, you can have some skin flaking which is minimized by a good moisturizer. Your skin needs to stay protected with sunscreen during the healing process.
You will be guided by the Restore SD team through the post treatment regimen to ensure that you heal quickly and safely. Laser treatments are performed in the office setting and are generally repeated at regular intervals of 4-6 months. We can help you avoid hectic scheduling by setting up your next visit as you leave!
Combining the CO2 Laser with other Treatments
Laser treatments complement other facial rejuvenation procedures to restore youth and vitality to your appearance. It is often combined with fillers such as Voluma®, Juvederm®, or Restylane® as well as neuromodulators like BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Your Restore SD team will make individualized recommendations for your skin type to ensure you have the healthiest and youngest appearing skin and facial profile possible. Our medical grade skin care products are not available in retail stores and a complimentary skin care evaluation is offered at every Restore SD consultation.
“I have been to see Dr. Gallus and her staff on a number of occasions. They are kind, professional, intelligent, extremely caring and thorough, but most of all are of a caliber that most other physicians cannot compete with. The experience top to bottom was pleasant…I can’t wait to come back to see her after my CO2 laser treatment from Dr Gallus heals! She recommended a post treatment kit of Skincare called Alastin. It feels wonderful and is helping my skin to heal at a rapid rate! If you are looking for something basic such as a peel or laser treatment all the way to a mommy makeover or facelift, this is the place to go!”
—Actual patient of Dr. Gallus
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a laser treatment consultation?
During your initial consultation, your Restore SD provider will perform a detailed facial and skin examination as well as review your medical history and any medications you are taking. You will have photos taken with our Vectra 3D imaging system and discuss treatment areas and options while viewing your photo series. This ensures you can address all areas of concern with your provider. With our state of the art Canfield software, potential results can be viewed, helping you to visualize possible outcomes.
Is laser treatment expensive?
The pricing of laser treatment reflects the investment in technology and maintenance of our laser treatment options as well as Restore SD Plastic Surgery’s commitment to safety, training and proper credentials for every provider. Our personal pricing for laser therapy reflects our years of experience and precise knowledge of the anatomy necessary to provide you with a safe, reliable, and consistent experience.
Do laser treatments hurt?
Your comfort is of paramount importance at Restore SD Plastic Surgery. Rest assured that most patients report the discomfort from laser treatments as being very minimal. We apply a numbing cream before the treatment begins, cooling air during the treatment, and cooling ice packs after to minimize any discomfort. If you’d like we can also prescribe a mild sedative, but this requires you to have a responsible adult available to drive you home.
We also offer Pro-Nox, a patient-controlled pain management system that allows you to administer your own pain relief during your laser treatments. Learn more about Pro-Nox here»
Why should I choose Restore SD for my San Diego laser treatment?
At Restore SD Plastic Surgery, we take the time to listen to your goals and partner with you to achieve the best possible results. We stand by our choice of technology and our experience. Allow us to deliver a safe, quality, and age appropriate facial rejuvenation that will leave you looking and feeling younger and more self-confident.
- Key Benefits
- Glossary
- Diminishes the appearance of acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage
- Smoothes out fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes and mouth
- Improves skin tone & texture by removing the outer layers of damaged skin
- Acne Scars: Scarring left behind by acne, which can be diminished or removed through laser resurfacing treatments.
- Ablative Laser: A type of laser that removes the outer layers of the skin, promoting the growth of new, more youthful-looking skin.
- Collagen: A protein in the skin that gives it strength and elasticity. Laser treatments can stimulate collagen production to improve skin texture and firmness.
- Dermis: The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that contains sweat and oil glands, hair follicles, and blood vessels.
- Epidermis: The outermost layer of skin that provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.
- Fine Lines: Signs of aging that can be reduced through laser treatments that promote skin tightening and collagen production.
- Fractional Laser: A laser treatment that targets a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving surrounding tissues intact for faster healing.
- Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of an area of skin caused by increased melanin production, which can be treated with laser therapies.
- Laser Resurfacing: A procedure that uses a laser to improve the appearance of skin or treat minor facial flaws by removing layers of skin.
- Melanin: The pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color, affected by laser treatments aimed at pigmentation issues.
- Non-Ablative Laser: A laser treatment that heats up the underlying skin tissue without harming the surface, stimulating collagen production to improve skin texture and firmness.
- Photodamage: Damage to the skin caused by exposure to sunlight, especially UV radiation, which can be treated or mitigated by laser resurfacing.
- Rejuvenation: The process of making someone look or feel better, younger, or more vital, often a goal of cosmetic laser treatments.
- Skin Resurfacing: A process that improves the appearance of the skin by removing the top layers, often performed with ablative lasers for deeper rejuvenation.
- Skin Tightening: A benefit of some laser treatments, which involves the contraction of collagen fibers to tighten loose skin.
- Sublative Rejuvenation: A treatment that uses fractionated bi-polar radio frequency to penetrate through the skin to allow more energy beneath the surface, improving skin texture and wrinkles.
- Sun Spots: Also known as age spots, these are areas of hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure that can be lightened or removed with laser treatments.
What do I need to know if this is my first time getting a laser treatment?
Laser treatments are a wonderful way to look and feel younger, and results are maximized when combined with an individualized skin care program. The importance of sun protection after treatment is critical and a commitment to sunscreen will ensure your results are maintained for as long as possible.
How long will my results last?
Depending on the type of laser you choose, and the depth of treatment, the results can be gained in a series of treatments or a single treatment that requires a longer (2 weeks) downtime. Once you reach your treatment goal, the results can last for years. The results are longer lasting and enhanced when you embrace a skin care regimen that provides your skin nourishment and sun protection.
Revitalize Your Skin with the Phoenix 15 CO2 Laser
The CO2 laser remains one of the most effective methods to combat the signs of aging, and we are proud to offer it at Restore SD Plastic Surgery in San Diego. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and find out if this treatment is right for you.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
Schedule your consultation!
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus holds over 15 years of experience as a cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon. Her priority is taking the time to listen to your goals and partner with you to develop the best and safest treatment plan that will optimize your results and leave you looking and feeling your best. To schedule your personal consultation, call our office at 858-224-2281 or reach out online.
Call to schedule your consult today »
References »
Omi T, Numano K. The Role of the CO2 Laser and Fractional CO2 Laser in Dermatology. Laser Ther. 2014 Mar 27;23(1):49-60. doi: 10.5978/islsm.14-RE-01. PMID: 24771971; PMCID: PMC3999431.
Heidari Beigvand H, Razzaghi M, Rostami-Nejad M, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Safari S, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Mansouri V, Heidari MH. Assessment of Laser Effects on Skin Rejuvenation. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences. 2020 Spring;11(2):212-219. doi: 10.34172/jlms.2020.35.
Kauvar AN. Fractional nonablative laser resurfacing: is there a skin tightening effect? Dermatologic Surgery. 2014 Dec;40 Suppl 12:S157-63. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000000200.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Mar 21, 2025
