What are the hazards of carbon dioxide laser?
I recently heard that carbon dioxide laser can be used to treat facial acne scars and wrinkles, but I also heard online that this treatment has some risks, so I would like to learn more about what those risks are.
Doctor's answer (1)
The risks of carbon dioxide laser treatment include pigmentary changes, scar formation, infection risk, and thermal injury.
1. Pigmentary changes: Carbon dioxide laser treatment may lead to pigmentary changes, such as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Particularly in individuals with darker skin types, uneven pigmentation may occur after treatment, requiring additional therapies to correct skin tone.
2. Scar formation: Carbon dioxide laser treatment may result in scar formation. Scars are abnormal results of tissue healing in the body and may affect both appearance and function.
3. Infection risk: Any treatment that compromises the skin barrier carries a risk of infection, and carbon dioxide laser treatment is no exception. Close postoperative monitoring and adherence to the physician's recommendations and wound care instructions are essential to minimize the risk of infection.
4. Thermal injury: The thermal effect generated during carbon dioxide laser treatment can cause thermal damage to tissues, especially with improper operation or excessive treatment. Therefore, appropriate energy and pulse settings, as well as professional operation, are crucial to minimizing the risk of thermal injury.
