After Facial Skin Resurfacing (CO2 Ablation)
You may apply ice packs to treated areas for the first few days to decrease swelling.
You may wash your face after 24 hours of treatment. Use cool water only, wash gently, gently pat dry. Do not rub your skin. Some of the Aquaphor or Vaseline may still remain on your face after washing(this is normal). Keep skin hydrated by re-applying (more) after drying your face. You may see some yellow drainage. This is protein, which is normal. Protein is part of our body's natural healing process – it repairs the skin.
Do not pick or rub to remove dead skin or scabs as this may increase the risk of scarring. Any scabs should be gently soaked off, if possible. You may trim the ends of any flaking skin with clean scissors.
Apply Aquaphor or Vaseline for the first three days. You may use a moisturizer after day four or you may continue using Aquaphor or Vaseline if you wish.
Sleep on your back with your head elevated on a few pillows for 3-4 days. You may experience increased swelling each morning upon awakening.
If the skin around the mouth is swollen or tight, drink using a straw.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 2 weeks to avoid irritating the skin.
Avoid drafts, fans, or air conditioners, etc., as air blowing on treated areas may cause stinging and will also dry out the skin.
Do not expose the skin to the sun for 2 weeks. It is very important to keep the area protected from the sun for the next several months to avoid changes in skin pigmentation and minimize redness. For 2-4 weeks after surgery, a 50 SPF sunscreen should be applied daily.
Most laser peels are supplemented by the use of rejuvenating creams; these may be started after 4–6 weeks.
Dr. Ford will instruct you when it is okay to start wearing make-up. This is usually 7 – 10 days following laser treatment. A green or yellow undercover make-up applied under your foundation will help hide redness.
Patients who received general anesthesia should return home from our office immediately upon discharge and lie down with the head elevated until all the effects of the anesthesia have disappeared. Anesthesia effects vary by individual, and you may feel drowsy for a short period of time or for several hours. You should not operate any mechanical equipment or drive a motor vehicle for at least 24 hours or longer if you feel any residual effects from the anesthesia. Do not use appliances or equipment that could be dangerous such as power tools, stoves, burners or lawn mowers. Watch out for dizziness. Walk slowly and take your time. Sudden changes of position can also cause nausea or dizziness. Do not drink any alcoholic beverages. The drugs in your body may cause your reaction to alcohol to be dangerous.