At Qazi Cosmetic Center, we use the CO2 laser to remodel deep scar tissue, smooth out irregular edges, and promote fresh collagen production. Today, we’re taking you inside the process with Dr. Qazi, as he treats a patient with severe facial scarring using CO2 laser resurfacing.
Acne scars can leave behind deep indentations, uneven texture, and pigmentation that impact both skin appearance and confidence. For individuals dealing with ice pick scars, boxcar scars, and thickened scar tissue, traditional treatments often fall short.
This is Part 1 of a 3-part series following the journey of scar revision and skin transformation.
Assessing the Skin: Understanding the Challenge
Dr. Qazi begins every scar revision treatment by analyzing the patient’s skin. In this case, the patient presents with severe acne scars, including:
- Deep ice pick scars
- Boxcar scars with sharp, defined edges
- Textural thickening around the scars
- Pigmentation concerns that make treatment more complex
“This session, we’re going to learn your skin, see how you heal, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly,” explains Dr. Qazi. Scar revision is never one-size-fits-all—it requires a customized approach, especially for deeper scars.
The Role of CO2 Laser in Scar Remodeling
The CO2 laser is one of the most effective tools for acne scar treatment because it resurfaces the skin layer by layer, stimulating collagen and breaking down thickened scar tissue. Unlike superficial treatments, CO2 laser works by remodeling the deep scar structure, evening out the skin surface.
Dr. Qazi explains, “I’m working to remodel all that thick scar tissue, smooth out the edges, and sand it down so it’s more even with the surrounding skin.” This process helps scars become less visible and the skin look more uniform over time.
Step-by-Step: How CO2 Laser Smooths Thick Scars
Step 1: Numbing the Skin for Comfort
Before starting the laser treatment, numbing injections are administered. Dr. Qazi prefers injections over topical numbing alone because topical anesthetics can cause swelling, making it harder to see the exact depth of the scars.
Step 2: CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Using the CO2 laser, Dr. Qazi begins targeting the scarred areas:
- Deep penetration into scar tissue to remodel it from within
- Smoothing thick, raised edges to create an even surface
- Encouraging new collagen growth to fill in depressions
The patient, experiencing the procedure, remarks, “It feels different from what I did before. I love that I don’t feel it as much.” This is a testament to both the numbing technique and the advanced laser technology being used.
Step 3: Pigmentation Considerations
Many patients with acne scars also experience hyperpigmentation or oil-related pigmentation issues that can worsen the appearance of scars. In this case, Pico laser may be introduced in later sessions to target pigmentation concerns separately.
Dr. Qazi explains, “You have a lot of oil pigmentation, and Pico laser will help with that because pigmentation makes scars appear worse too.”
Why CO2 Laser is Effective for Deep Scars
- Targets thickened scar edges, smoothing out textural irregularities
- Stimulates collagen production for natural skin repair
- Customizable treatment settings allow for tailored depth and intensity
- Pairs well with other scar treatments, like subcision and microneedling
What’s Next in the Series?
This is just Part 1 of the journey. In Part 2, we’ll explore subcision, a technique that releases tethered scars beneath the skin’s surface, allowing for even greater improvement.
Stay tuned for the next step in this patient’s scar revision journey!
Virtual Consultations & Travel-Friendly Treatment
For out-of-state and international patients, we offer virtual consultations to create a customized treatment plan before you travel. Our clinic is conveniently located five minutes from John Wayne Airport, allowing many patients to receive treatment and fly back home the same day.
Payment & Financing Options
We offer flexible financing through Cherry, CareCredit, Alpheon, and Affirm. Learn more about financing here.
Ready for Expert Acne Scar Revision?
If you’re struggling with deep acne scars, the CO2 laser combined with other advanced techniques can dramatically improve your skin’s appearance.
Schedule a consultation at Qazi Cosmetic Center today by calling (949) 336-7293 or click here to self-schedule a consultation.
