When the skin looks creased, uneven, or weathered, some patients reach a point where creams, facials, and lighter treatments don’t provide the results they’re looking for.
If a patient’s concerns include lines, acne scars, or sun damage, the answer may be a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment.
Many patients consider CO2 laser resurfacing when they want to give the surface of their skin a substantial reset.
This treatment addresses concerns that need deeper correction, not just a general refresh. If a patient is looking for a treatment with a CO2 laser near Midtown NYC, Roy Geronemus, MD, can provide what they need.
How CO2 Laser Works
CO2 laser resurfacing removes the damaged outer layers of skin and triggers a controlled healing response beneath the surface. That process addresses wrinkles, scars, rough texture, and other visible signs of aging. A CO2 laser is a more powerful treatment than lighter alternatives, which makes it the ideal choice for patients who want more noticeable results.
As the skin heals, it looks smoother, firmer, and more even. The treatment also supports collagen remodeling, which continues after the initial recovery period and contributes to longer-term improvements in texture and skin quality.
Many patients incorporate our CO2 laser near Midtown, NYC into their treatment plan because it can address several concerns in a single treatment. Dr. Geronemus was also involved with the clinical development of the first fractional Co2 laser.
What the Consultation Covers
A consultation helps determine whether CO2 laser near Midtown, NYC laser resurfacing is the right match for the patient’s specific concern. When a patient comes to our clinic for an evaluation, they meet with one of our aesthetic experts, Dr. Roy Geronemus or Dr. David Hashemi.
Dr. Geronemus and Dr. Hashemi examine the skin directly, review the patient’s goals, and evaluate whether deep resurfacing makes sense based on their specific concerns.
The evaluation is an invaluable part of the process because a CO2 laser treatment is more intensive than other laser options.
During the visit, Dr. Geronemus or Dr. Hashemi also explain what the procedure will entail and what kind of results you can expect.
What Treatment Involves
When Dr. Geronemus and Dr. Hashemi perform CO2 laser resurfacing, they typically work toward two goals: removing damaged skin and stimulating a healing response in the treatment area.
Drs Geronemus and Hashemi offer a variety of anesthesia options for CO2 laser procedures, including local anesthesia and IV sedation administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
During the procedure, a physician passes the laser over the skin in a controlled pattern so it can effectively target wrinkles, scars, rough texture, and other visible signs of damage. Because this is a deeper resurfacing treatment, our experts tailor the plan to the patient’s specific needs. Some patients need focused treatment in one area, while others want broader resurfacing across the full face.
The intensity of treatment also affects downtime, which is why our physicians customize the procedure based on the patient’s goals and sensitivity.
What Recovery Looks Like
For patients researching treatment with a CO2 laser near Midtown, NYC, recovery is often one of the biggest considerations.
Recovery after CO2 laser resurfacing is more involved than after lighter laser treatments. The skin often looks red and feels sensitive as it heals, and that first stage can lead to peeling, dryness, and gradual surface renewal.
This is a good sign—the body is refreshing damaged skin and reducing the presence of wrinkles, scars, texture, and visible sun damage.
The healing process takes time, but that more intensive recovery also helps CO2 laser resurfacing produce more visible changes.
Following your treatment, Dr. Geronemus or Dr. Hashemi will provide personalized recovery instructions, so you know what to expect and how to foster the best results.
If you are interested in getting a preview of the kinds of results you can expect, examine our before and after gallery for photos from real patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the treatment usually take?
Treatment length varies. Session length depends on the size of the treatment area and the patient’s concerns.
How many CO2 treatments do most patients need?
The recommended number of sessions varies. Patients with less severe concerns may only need a limited treatment plan, while others may require additional sessions based on the severity of wrinkles, scars, or texture concerns.
How long do results last?
Results vary from patient to patient, but they can last for years with the right care.
What kinds of concerns make someone consider CO2 resurfacing?
Many patients choose CO2 laser resurfacing when they want meaningful improvement for texture, wrinkles, scars, and other visible signs of damage.
Can you use CO2 laser resurfacing for the body and the face?
Yes, Dr. Geronemus and Dr. Hashemi can perform CO2 laser resurfacing on many parts of the face and body, including the hands, legs, neck, and chest.
Is CO2 laser only for wrinkles?
No. While a CO2 laser can improve wrinkles, many patients also choose it to treat scars, rough texture, and visible sun damage. It is often a good fit when the skin shows several signs of damage at once and needs a more intense refresh.
How do I know if CO2 is too strong for my skin?
A qualified physician can determine if this is the right choice for you. During your consultation, Dr. Geronemus or Dr. Hashemi looks at the skin directly and decides whether CO2 resurfacing can address the concern with manageable recovery for your comfort level. Not every patient needs the same level of resurfacing.
Will my skin look noticeably different right away?
You will go through a visible healing period first, so the final result does not appear immediately. Texture and tone improve as the skin recovers, which will take time.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering scheduling treatment with a CO2 laser near Midtown NYC, the next step is to choose a plan that matches your skin and your goals. CO2 laser resurfacing can be a meaningful option for patients who want a greater improvement in wrinkles, scars, texture, and visible damage. The best way to find out whether it is right for you is to schedule an evaluation with a physician.
You can request an appointment to meet with Dr. Geronemus or Dr. Hashemi, or use our free treatment builder to explore other treatments, like the Fraxel Dual or PicoSure Pro laser. Work with our team to find the treatment that best fits your skin concerns, recovery preferences, and long-term goals.
