Laser Skin Resurfacing with DOT Therapy


What is DOT Therapy?

Dermal Optical Thermolysis, more commonly known as DOT Therapy, uses fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing for micro-ablative skin rejuvenation. It has quickly become a Gold Standard in the non-invasive treatment of acne scarring and many common conditions caused by sun damage to the skin such as pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkling. Over time as you soak up the sun's ultraviolet rays, it can speed up the aging process making you appear older than you feel. DOT Therapy is a safe, fast and efficient method of restoring a youthful look to your face, neck and hands.

How Does it Work?

Unlike traditional CO2 technology, which removes the entire surface area being treated, the DOT CO2 laser creates thousands of microscopic perforations utilizing a dot-pattern. Since the DOT procedure leaves the skin surrounding each dot intact, the epidermis heals more quickly and promotes new collagen growth much faster than using more conventional treatment methods. This results in an immediate improvement in skin tightening and overall complexion with reduced patient downtime and a complete recovery usually within a few days.

Since DOT CO2 laser therapy utilizes a unique modulated pulse technology, your physician has simultaneous control of both the amount of energy being emitted as well as the dwell time in a targeted area of damaged skin. This allows for a quick adjustment of treatment parameters to manage the ablation depth (with a high-power short duration pulse) and thermal damage to the area being treating (with an adjustable-duration low-power pulse).

*Clinical results may vary depending on individual factors, including medical history, skin type, age, patient compliance with Pre/Post Care Treatment Instructions, and individual response to treatment. Several treatments may be needed.

What Can DOT CO2 Therapy Do For Me?

Prior to the introduction of DOT Therapy, patients who wanted to reverse unwanted signs of aging had to rely on a regimen of injections or more invasive cosmetic procedures that resulted in longer recovery times, increased discomfort and prolonged redness to treated areas of the skin. In addition, previous CO2 laser treatments were limited to facial areas and were not useful for hard-to-heal areas of skin like that found on the neck or décolletage. By employing a dot pattern that creates thousands of microscopic perforations, your physician or physician assistant at Associates in Dermatology can treat fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, enlarged pores and sun-damaged areas for improved tightness and texture.

Is DOT Therapy Safe?

CO2 laser resurfacing is safer than conventional cosmetic surgeries and more efficient than injectables, such as Botox or dermal fillers. Only a topical anesthetic is used during DOT Therapy, so patient sedation is not required. Since your healthcare provider has more control with DOT Therapy to customize your treatment plan and/or modify treatments during the procedure, the modality is safe and effective for use on all parts of the face, neck and hands, even for patients with delicate skin types.

Do CO2 DOT Laser Treatments Hurt?

Generally speaking, no — but the amount of pain experienced will vary based on the individual. Cosmetic corrections performed with DOT laser technology are not as deep as traditional CO2 treatments which have historically caused more painful skin damage and bruising. There will be some minor discomfort (often described as a stinging sensation) for the targeted areas of skin.

Following a DOT laser procedure, the treated areas of skin will be red and feel similar to a sunburn. Cold compresses, hydrating lotions and over-the-counter pain medication are normally used to manage pain and facilitate a faster return to normal activities. Your physician or physician assistant will advise you as to when you can resume applying makeup (usually 3 to 5 days) following DOT Therapy.

How Long Does a Procedure Take?

DOT Therapy can be performed to an entire face in about twenty minutes (smaller treatment areas take less time). Your physician or physician assistant will start by applying a topical anesthetic to the areas of the skin being treated (NOTE: intravenous sedation is not required). Power settings, DOT pattern and dwell times can be adjusted to customize the treatment for severe wrinkling or advanced sun damage. For some patients, the physician may recommend breaking the treatment regimen into multiple procedures but that is usually not required.

Will I Need Follow-Up Treatments?

In most cases the desired results, as established with your healthcare provider, can be achieved in a single treatment. For people with more severe skin damage, the physician may recommend a series of treatments that are typically spaced about one month apart. Unfortunately, we cannot turn back the hands of time and you may opt for follow-up sessions when signs of sun damage or premature aging return.

What Do I Need to Do During Recovery?

Your physician or physician assistant will explain what to expect as well as what To Do and Not To Do during your recovery period. It is important that you carefully follow all DOT Therapy Ablative Laser Skin-Resurfacing Pre-/Post- Care Treatment Instructions. You should expect some downtime and will need to avoid excess heat and direct sun exposure (including tanning beds and self-tanning lights) for several weeks following DOT Therapy. If you do need to go outdoors, it is important to use a high SPF sun block, free from chemical sun filters. Thorough cleansing, basic skincare and additional sun protection such as an umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can ensure your results lasts longer.

What Patients Are Saying

Dot Therapy Rocks! Despite the hot to touch skin redness and dead skin, it is the BEST procedure I have ever had. No more injections, only DOT therapy from now on. Downtime was 7-10 days. I am still seeing results after 6 weeks. It never hurt so good to see remarkable results. You get the best treatment from the dermatologist you know! It is all about the Dot Therapy. Thank you Dr. Steppie! — Pep P., Orlando FL

My friends and family noticed the difference and commented on how radiant and glowing my skin was. And now, a month after the procedure, I could not be happier with how soft and healthy my skin feels. DOT Therapy definitely delivered! — Aimee, Orlando FL

I was shocked to see that the fine lines around my eyes and mouth had been replaced with smoother looking skin. — Michelle, Dallas TX

My skin's pore size really decreased after the DOT Therapy treatment, leaving me with a glowing, youthful complexion! What more could you ask for? — Charlotte, Dallas TX

How Do I Get Started?

To learn how this treatment can specifically help you, call us today at 800-827-SKIN (7546) to set up your consultation. Fees may vary based on the areas being treated. Preferable prices are available for multiple treatments and will be given to you during your consultation with one of our providers.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided by this site is intended solely for educational purposes. This information is not to be used for medical diagnostic purposes and is not intended to serve as a recommendation for treatment and/or management of any medical/surgical condition. Most of all, this information should not be used in place of a physician or other qualified health provider. If you believe you have a medical condition, please contact your physician immediately.

Today I was seen by the Nurse Practitioner Ashleigh who was very gentle, caring and full of knowledge. The office staff was great! The appointment was on time. The office is super clean and comfortable!

— Daryl C.

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