CO2 Fractional Laser

How it works

A CO2 fractional laser is an ablative laser that vaporizes tiny columns of skin, leaving untreated skin between them so healing can proceed quickly. The manufacturer of the unit used by a given clinic is confirmed by the clinic itself, so the model should be asked about rather than assumed. Depth and density are set by the doctor for scars, texture or wrinkles. The same laser can also remove small raised moles, one at a time. Expect redness, crusting and a recovery period that varies by person.

Good to know

• Because the unit's maker is not fixed, ask the clinic to write down the model on the estimate.
• Resurfacing is typically priced per area and per session, while mole removal is typically priced per lesion or by a count range.
• Depth and density settings drive both the result and the recovery time, so an aggressive plan and a mild plan can appear under one name.
• Wound-care products and follow-up checks are common extra items.

How CO2 fractional laser affects a treatment quote

The question that matters is which of the two uses your quote covers. Resurfacing and mole removal share a device and almost nothing else on the price side. One is about coverage, the other is about how many spots. A clinic that gives you a single figure should state which it is.

For resurfacing, ask about the depth planned and how much downtime to expect, because a milder plan with more visits and a stronger plan with one visit are different purchases. For moles, ask whether the number counted at the exam can change the total and whether tissue testing is included. Numbing, aftercare dressing, VAT and check-up visits should each be a written yes or no.