Cosmetic Surgery Times reports that Fractional CO2 laser treatment is an excellent option for periorbital rejuvenation (ie, around the eyes) that results in minimal downtime and has benefits for skin texture and laxity as well as brow elevation.
Dr. Dvora Ancona, director, Centro Medico Juva, Milan, presented the study of 200 patients, average age of 45, with wrinkles, tissue laxity, photo-aged skin and moderate extra eyelid skin. The patients were given an average of two laser treatments (range, one to four) spaced three to four weeks apart. They were followed for a period of up to two years.
RESULTS
The procedure was well-tolerated, and post-treatment after-effects, like redness and swelling, averaged 3-4 days, although downtime was generally limited to 24 hours.
Observers measured the results via digital photos. They were also given the measurements to show any changes in the distance from pupil to the midpoint of the brow. The observers were also asked to evaluate skin changes such as wrinkling and tightening.
The results showed that after three months, the majority of patients had over 25% improvement in skin texture and looseness along with eyebrow elevation of at least 1 mm to 2 mm, and most of the benefits were still visible at the final follow-up nearly 2 years later.
“Changes around the eyes are often amongst the first perceived signs of facial aging, and so blepharoplasty has become a popular procedure for re-establishing a more youthful appearance,” Dr. Ancona says. “Although the fractional CO2 laser treatment is not a replacement for blepharoplasty, it represents a useful noninvasive alternative associated with high patient satisfaction because of its outcomes and benefits of minimal after-effects and downtime.”
We’ve had great success in rejuvenating the eyes without the need for surgery, but it’s definitely a case-by-case determination. Some patients are great candidates for Fraxel or Thermage treatments around the eyes, while for others, a blepharoplasty is the only thing that will get them the results they seek.
If you are considering rejuvenating the area around your eyes, the best thing to do is schedule a free consultation with one of our doctors to determine the course of treatment that might work best for you.
