What is a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser and How Does It Work?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a highly advanced technology that offers high precision in skin and soft tissue treatments using focused laser light energy. Operating at a wavelength of 10,600 nanometers, this laser is highly absorbed by water. This feature allows water molecules on the skin surface to evaporate, providing a controlled tissue regeneration and a minimally invasive solution for surgical cuts.
Carbon dioxide Lasers target the upper and deeper layers of the skin, helping to renew the epidermis and dermis tissues. By increasing collagen production, the skin looks tighter, younger and smoother in the long term. It can also be safely used in deep tissue cuts for surgical procedures (such as mole-nevus removal).
Since the laser has a thermal effect on the skin surface, the patient’s skin structure should be evaluated before applying it to sensitive areas. The CO2 laser can be operated with different settings and can affect superficial or deep skin layers, which offers doctors a wide range of applications.
Uses of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser
Carbon dioxide laser has a wide range of uses in medical and aesthetic fields. Here are the most common areas of use:
1. Dermatology and Aesthetic Applications
- Blemish and Pigmentation Treatment: It is an effective solution for sun spots, age spots and hyperpigmentation problems.
- Skin Rejuvenation: Provides a smoother and more youthful appearance by reducing fine wrinkles and skin laxity.
- Acne and Acne Scar Treatment: Reduces acne scars by renewing the upper layer of the skin.
- Mole and Wart Removal: It can remove benign skin lesions without requiring surgical incision.
2. Surgical Applications
- Tissue Cutting and Vaporization: Provides a more controlled procedure during surgery by making precise and bleeding-free incisions.
- Gynecology: Used in the treatment of cervical lesions and vaginal rejuvenation procedures.
- Oral and Dental Health: Used in gum aesthetics, treatment of oral lesions and root canal.
3. Upper Respiratory Tract Applications
- Respiratory Tract Surgeries: It is preferred in the removal of polyps and nodules.
- Snoring Treatment: Helps to reduce snoring by tightening the soft palate tissue.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser
The advantages of carbon dioxide laser are many for both the patient and the physician:
Advantages:
- Thanks to its high focusing capacity, the carbon dioxide laser only affects the targeted area and does not damage the surrounding tissues.
- It shortens the healing process by accelerating tissue regeneration.
- Laser light instantly coagulates the vessels, minimizing the risk of bleeding.
- It reduces the risk of infection by eliminating bacteria in the procedure area.
- It offers a more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods.
- In some applications, effective results can be achieved even in a single session.
Disadvantages:
- In some patients, the skin healing process may be prolonged and slight crusting may occur.
- There may be redness, swelling and tenderness after the procedure.
- In darker skin tones, a thorough evaluation should be made before laser treatment as there is a risk of hyperpigmentation.
- It is not used in summer months (during periods when the sun is intense).
Things to Take into Consideration After Carbon Dioxide Laser
For a successful healing process after carbon dioxide laser applications, protection from sunlight and the regular use of creams with high SPF (sun protection factor) are important. The skin’s moisture balance should be maintained, and moisturizing creams recommended by the doctor should be applied routinely. Since the crusts that may form after the procedure are part of the natural healing process, they should never be picked off because they carry the risk of scarring. In addition, maximum care should be taken for skin hygiene, and the skin should be kept clean at all times to prevent infection risk after the procedure.
Carbon Dioxide Laser: A Safe, Effective and Innovative Technology
Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a powerful and safe solution for skin rejuvenation, tissue repair, and surgical procedures. When applied correctly, it offers effective results and has minimal side effects. This technology, which is widely preferred in both aesthetic and medical areas, provides successful results in various skin disorders and surgical procedures that require tissue cutting.
If you are considering laser treatment, you can create the most suitable treatment plan for you by consulting a specialist doctor. Following the care instructions before and after the procedure will increase the success of the treatment and minimize side effects. As one of the most advanced treatment methods offered by modern medicine, CO2 laser provides comfortable and permanent solutions for many patients.
