Co2 Laser

Here is the revised Postoperative Instructions for CO2 Laser Resurfacing with the updated information about antibiotics:

Postoperative Instructions for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

General Overview

CO2 laser resurfacing is an advanced treatment designed to improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Carefully following these postoperative instructions will help ensure safe healing and optimal results.

Medications

    1.    Valtrex (Valacyclovir):

    •    Take 500 mg twice daily for 7–10 days, starting two days prior to the procedure, to prevent cold sores.

    2.    Antibiotics:

    •    Start Keflex 500 mg every 6 hours or Clindamycin 300 mg every 8 hours (if allergic to penicillin) the day prior to the procedure to prevent infection.

    3.    Diflucan (Fluconazole 150 mg):

    •    Take once daily for five days post-procedure to prevent fungal infections.

Face Washing (Begin the Morning After the Procedure)

    1.    Washing Instructions:

    •    Wash your face every three hours using cold water.

    •    Avoid using hot or extremely cold water.

    •    Use clean or sterile towels to pat the face dry, or allow it to air dry (preferred).

    •    Do not use dirty towels or washcloths to avoid contamination.

Vinegar Soaks (Begin Day 3)

    1.    Preparation:

    •    Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 16 ounces of distilled water and store it in a clean spray bottle in the refrigerator.

    2.    Application:

    •    Spray the solution onto your face while keeping your eyes closed.

    •    Leave it on for 1 minute, then rinse off with cool water.

    3.    Post-Soak Care:

    •    Pat your face dry with a clean or sterile towel and apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or Cetaphil lotion.

Skin Care

    1.    Moisturizers:

    •    Use Aquaphor sparingly on the treated areas. If it becomes too oily, switch to Cetaphil lotion as advised.

    •    When applying under the eyes, use a very small amount to avoid chemical burns from contact with the eyes or eyelashes.

    2.    Avoid Regular Skin Products:

    •    Do not use any regular skin products (e.g., retinoids, acids) until complete healing has occurred.

    •    Introduce new products carefully, testing on a small area first to check for irritation.

Sun Protection

    1.    Strict Sun Avoidance:

    •    Avoid direct and indirect sun exposure (e.g., through windows) for 7–14 days or until the skin has fully healed.

    2.    Sunscreen Use:

    •    Once healing is complete, apply a hypoallergenic sunscreen (e.g., ZO or Obagi) with SPF 30+.

    •    Reapply sunscreen every two hours during sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation.

Clean Environment

    1.    Bedding and Linens:

    •    Use clean sheets and pillowcases nightly to reduce the risk of infection.

    2.    Cold Compresses:

    •    Apply cold compresses occasionally to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.

Activity Restrictions

    1.    Physical Activity:

    •    Avoid strenuous activities such as saunas, hot tubs, and workouts until healing is complete.

    2.    Smoking:

    •    Refrain from smoking for at least two weeks before and after the procedure to support optimal healing.

Hyperpigmentation Prevention

    1.    Future Treatments:

    •    If hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation occurs, bleaching agents or hydrocortisone creams may be recommended to manage these changes.

    2.    Monitoring:

    •    Notify us immediately if you notice unusual pigmentation changes.

Signs of Complications

Contact us immediately if you experience:

    •    Severe pain, redness, or swelling beyond what is expected.

    •    Signs of infection (e.g., pus, warmth, or foul-smelling drainage).

    •    Persistent irritation or chemical burns near the eyes.

In emergencies, call 911 if you cannot reach Dr. Farzaneh directly.

Contact Information

    •    Dr. Babak Farzaneh

    •    Direct Communication: Call or text Dr. Farzaneh directly on his cell phone.

    •    Virtual Assistance: Utilize Dr. Farzaneh’s virtual clone on our website for immediate answers.

    •    Office Locations:

    •    Chino Hills: 4511 Chino Hills Parkway, Suite C, Chino Hills, CA 91709

    •    Irvine: 2967 Michelson Dr., Suite S, Irvine, CA 92618

We’re Here for You

Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns during your recovery. Thank you for choosing TrueCare Cosmetic Surgery & Med Spa.