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What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing utilizes both ablative and non-ablative laser technology to target layers of damaged skin and stimulate collagen production, resulting in the formation of healthy, new skin. Ablative lasers remove the skin’s damaged surface layers, usually using erbium YAG or CO2 laser technology. Non-ablative lasers target the skin’s underlying tissues. Ablative lasers provide more dramatic correction but require longer recovery, while non-ablative or fractional treatments offer good improvements with shorter downtime.

At Cosmetic Surgery Center, we utilize the fractional C02 dot laser, which makes tiny perforations into the skin while leaving the surrounding area unharmed. This stimulates the healing process and promotes new collagen growth, resulting in firmer, smoother skin and a more even complexion. We also offer the Sciton MOXI® laser for resurfacing.

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Laser Skin Resurfacing Before & After Photos

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Procedures Performed
Description

Facelift, Fat Injection to Nasolabial Folds, and Full Face Laser resurfacing.

Before & After Facelift Case 3643 View 1 View in Virginia Beach, VA
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Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Fractional CO2 lasers offer fewer side effects, better results, and shorter recovery times compared to more aggressive options, such as fully ablative laser treatments. The laser’s energy is delivered in controlled pulses, allowing targeted renewal while preserving surrounding skin. Over time, the treated area heals with smoother, more youthful skin texture.

Benefits You Can Expect

  • Smoother skin tone and texture, with reduced fine lines and wrinkles
  • Diminished appearance of age spots, sun damage, and discoloration
  • Softening of acne scars and textural irregularities
  • Stimulated collagen and elastin for firmer, more resilient skin
  • Long-lasting improvement when combined with proper skincare and sun protection
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Timeless Beauty, Flexible Payments

You can pursue your cosmetic goals today and pay later. Our practice proudly partners with Allē, CareCredit®, Alphaeon® Credit, and Cherry, which offer flexible payment options that fit your budget. Some plans include interest rates starting as low as 0%. Let us help you look your best today while managing payments at your own pace.

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Who Is a Good Candidate?

Most healthy adults with mild to moderate signs of photoaging, uneven tone, or superficial scarring are potential candidates. Determining your suitability for laser skin resurfacing with the fractional CO2 dot laser is a crucial step in achieving optimal results. Here’s what you should consider:

  • Skin Concerns: If you’re battling with fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, or uneven skin tone, the CO2 laser might be the solution you’ve been searching for. The treatment is also effective for those looking to address scars or minor skin irregularities.
  • Skin Type and Tone: The laser’s versatility enables it to treat multiple skin types and tones, but not all. During your consultation, Dr. Lopes or another member of her team will assess your skin to determine if the treatment is suitable for you.
  • General Health: As with most cosmetic procedures, being in good health is essential. If you have active skin infections, certain skin conditions, or other health concerns, these may affect your suitability for the treatment.
  • Realistic Expectations: While laser skin resurfacing with the CO2 laser offers transformative results, it’s essential to approach the procedure with realistic expectations. Understanding the potential outcomes and post-treatment care will ensure you’re satisfied with the results.
  • Previous Treatments: If you’ve had other skin treatments or procedures, especially recently, it’s crucial to discuss these with your provider. Certain treatments might influence the effectiveness of the laser or the way your skin responds.

Non-ablative lasers, such as the MOXI laser, also deliver fractionated laser energy below the skin’s surface to stimulate your body’s natural healing response. The MOXI is part of Sciton’s mJoule™ platform, which also includes the BBL® (BroadBand Light) Hero laser skin rejuvenation treatment.

Woman standing with eyes closed and arms raised, revealing smooth, rejuvenated skin.

Treatment Experience & Recovery

Your session begins with a consultation, during which the laser treatment provider maps and numbs the area. During treatment, you may experience a mild snapping or heating sensation as the laser passes over your skin.

Afterward, expect redness, swelling, and temporary peeling or crusting, depending on the depth of treatment. Healing times vary, depending on the treatment’s intensity. Over the following weeks and months, the skin’s appearance continues to improve, revealing smoother, fresher results.

Post-Treatment Care & Tips

  • Keep the area clean and moisturized as directed by our team
  • Avoid direct sun exposure; wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
  • Use gentle skincare products until skin fully heals
  • In some cases, a series of treatments optimizes results

Why Choose Cosmetic Surgery Center?

Dr. JoAnne Lopes brings over 25 years of aesthetic experience to every procedure. As one of Virginia Beach's first female plastic surgeons, she combines technical skill with a compassionate touch, making sure patients feel supported throughout their journey. Her team is trained in the latest technology and maintains rigorous safety standards. When you choose our clinic, whether from Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, or elsewhere, you receive personalized care and results backed by expertise.

A Reputation Built on Results

Kara did very very good job I’m so so happy 😄😄😄 I working with customer every day and they ask me...
Very personable, very kind staff and concerned about your thought concerning your issues.
Fantastic staff and facilities
Dr. Lopes and the entire team were extremely professional from start to finish. I was greeted with a...

Ready for a Refreshed Appearance? 

A laser skin resurfacing treatment may be your perfect match if you’re considering a nonsurgical approach to facial rejuvenation. Use the online form to request a consultation at our Virginia Beach office to discuss your goals and create a customized plan with Dr. Lopes and her expert team. 

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