Ablative Laser Treatments in St. Petersburg, Florida
At St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, ablative laser treatments are performed exclusively by Double Board-Certified Dermatologists with advanced laser training. Ablative laser technology is one of the most powerful tools in Cosmetic Dermatology for treating deep wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, uneven skin texture, and significant skin laxity.
What Are Ablative Lasers?
Ablative lasers are medical laser systems that precisely remove controlled layers of the outer skin while stimulating collagen production in the underlying dermis. This process triggers the body's natural wound-healing response, resulting in improved skin tone, smoother skin texture, firmer skin, and visible skin rejuvenation.
Unlike non-ablative laser treatments, ablative laser resurfacing directly treats damaged skin tissue, making it one of the most effective options for advanced skin concerns.
Dr. Kat Kesty and Dr. Chelsea Kesty specialize in physician-performed laser resurfacing using both CO₂ lasers and Erbium lasers, allowing for highly customized treatment plans based on skin type, skin concerns, and recovery preferences.
Benefits of Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Ablative laser treatments are used to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously
Deep wrinkles and fine lines
Effectively treats both superficial and deep-set wrinkles for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Acne scars and pitted scars
Precisely resurfaces scarred tissue to reveal smoother, more even skin texture.
Uneven skin texture
Smooths and refines skin surface for a more uniform appearance.
Sun damage and brown spots
Removes damaged skin layers to reveal healthier, more even-toned skin beneath.
Skin laxity and loss of firmness
Stimulates significant collagen production for improved skin tightness and elasticity.
Enlarged pores
Refines and minimizes pore appearance for smoother skin texture.
Additional advantages include:
Significant collagen production and long-term skin remodeling
More dramatic results compared to non-ablative lasers
Precisely targeted treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissue
Customizable treatment depth and intensity
Decreased risk of skin cancer
Types of Ablative Lasers Used at St. Petersburg Skin and Laser
CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
The carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser is one of the most powerful ablative laser systems available. CO₂ lasers are commonly used to treat:
- Deep wrinkles
- Severe sun damage
- Prominent acne scars
- Advanced skin texture irregularities
Modern fractional CO₂ laser technology allows for improved safety, reduced downtime, and controlled healing while still delivering dramatic skin rejuvenation results.
Erbium:YAG Laser Resurfacing
Erbium lasers remove thinner layers of skin with exceptional precision. They are often selected for patients seeking:
- Treatment of fine lines and moderate wrinkles
- Improvement in skin texture and tone
- Shorter recovery time compared to traditional CO₂ lasers
- Treatment of areas such as the face, neck, chest, and hands
Erbium lasers are also an important option for patients with certain skin types when performed by experienced physicians.
Fractional vs. Fully Ablative Laser Treatments
The choice between fractional and fully ablative laser treatment depends on individual skin concerns, skin type, and aesthetic goals.
Fractional Ablative Laser Treatment
Fractional lasers treat a fraction of the skin surface, leaving surrounding tissue intact. This promotes faster healing while still stimulating collagen production.
Best for:
- Acne scars
- Fine to moderate wrinkles
- Uneven skin texture
- Patients seeking less downtime
Fully Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Fully ablative laser resurfacing removes the entire outer layer of skin in the treatment area. This approach provides the most dramatic improvement but requires longer recovery.
Best for:
- Deep wrinkles
- Severe sun damage
- Advanced skin laxity
- Maximum skin rejuvenation
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ablative Laser Treatment?
A comprehensive consultation with Dr. Kat Kesty or Dr. Chelsea Kesty is required to determine candidacy and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Ablative laser resurfacing may be appropriate for patients who have:
Virtual consultations are available for appropriate candidates.
Safety and Physician-Only Laser Care
At St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, all ablative laser procedures are physician-performed. We do not use laser technicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants for laser resurfacing.
Safety protocols include:
Anesthesia and Comfort During Treatment
Your physician will determine the safest and most effective approach for your treatment session.
Depending on the depth and extent of treatment, comfort measures may include:
Recovery Time After Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Recovery time varies based on the type of ablative laser used and treatment depth
Fractional ablative lasers
Typically 7 days
Fully ablative lasers
Approximately 2–4 weeks
Redness may persist for several weeks as collagen remodeling continues. Post-treatment skincare and sun protection are essential for optimal healing.
Safety and Comfort: Our Priority
Understanding the role of anesthesia, safety measures, and comfort protocols in ablative laser procedures.
Anesthesia and Comfort
Anesthesia plays a pivotal role in the success of ablative laser procedures. Local anesthesia, an oral analgesic, or sedation can be utilized to keep the patient comfortable during the laser procedure. Nerve blocks using local anesthetic may also be used during a laser with Dr. Kesty.
Comfort Measures Include:
- Topical numbing medication
- Light sedation when appropriate
- Nerve blocks for enhanced comfort
- Specialized cooling devices
Laser Safety Standards
Laser safety is the top priority at St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, where only Double Board Certified Dermatologists with special training in Lasers use these powerful tools on patients. We believe that patients deserve the best health care, and do not have Laser Techs, Physician Assistants, or Nurse Practitioners performing procedures.
Our Safety Standards:
- Double Board Certified Dermatologists only
- Fellowship Training in laser surgery
- Leading-edge technology
- Extensive training and precision
Understanding Potential Risks and Side Effects
Complete transparency about potential risks ensures you make an informed decision about your treatment.
Important Safety Information
Despite the significant advantages of ablative lasers, they are medical procedures and are not without their risks. Ablative Lasers should be performed by a Physician with significant experience and training with Lasers.
Potential Side Effects May Include:
- Pain and edema (swelling)
- Infection risk (cold sores, fungal infection)
- Itching and discomfort
- Pigment changes (hyper or hypopigmentation)
- Altered skin texture
- Skin peeling (normal healing process)
- Temporary milia (small white bumps)
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if sun exposed
Prevention and Management: Adverse effects are usually manageable with a well-planned post-procedure regimen that includes analgesics for pain management, topical medications for infection prevention, and antiviral drugs to prevent cold sore activation. Sun protection with broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or more) is vital after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ablative Laser Treatments
Get detailed answers to common questions about ablative laser treatments from our physicians.
Is ablative laser resurfacing worth it?
For appropriately selected patients, ablative laser resurfacing is one of the most effective treatments available for improving skin texture, deep wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, and overall skin quality. Unlike non-ablative laser treatments, ablative lasers remove damaged skin and stimulate significant collagen production, which often leads to more dramatic and longer-lasting results.
What is the difference between CO2 laser and erbium laser resurfacing?
CO2 lasers penetrate deeper and are typically used for more advanced skin concerns such as deep wrinkles, significant sun damage, and scars. Erbium lasers remove more superficial layers of skin with greater precision and often have a shorter recovery time. The choice depends on skin type, treatment area, and aesthetic goals and is determined during consultation.
How painful is ablative laser resurfacing?
Most patients describe the sensation as intense heat or stinging during treatment. At St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, procedures are performed using local anesthesia, oral medication, nerve blocks, or light sedation as appropriate to maintain comfort. Post-treatment discomfort is expected but is carefully managed with a structured recovery plan.
How long is recovery after ablative laser treatment?
Recovery time depends on the depth of treatment. Initial healing typically occurs within 7–14 days, with redness gradually fading over several weeks. Collagen remodeling continues for several months. Dr. Kat Kesty and Dr. Chelsea Kesty tailor treatment depth to balance results with recovery time.
How long before I look "normal" again?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to public activities within 10–14 days, although residual redness may persist and can often be covered with makeup after initial healing. Full skin maturation and optimal results develop over 3–6 months.
Is ablative laser better than non-ablative laser treatments?
Ablative lasers generally produce more dramatic improvement with fewer treatment sessions but require more downtime. Non-ablative lasers offer gradual improvement with minimal recovery. Ablative laser resurfacing is often recommended when deeper skin resurfacing is needed.
Can ablative lasers treat acne scars?
Yes. Ablative laser resurfacing is considered one of the most effective treatments for acne scars, particularly pitted or deep scars. Fractional ablative techniques allow targeted treatment while preserving surrounding skin for faster healing.
Is ablative laser safe for all skin types?
Skin type, tone, and medical history must be carefully evaluated. Certain skin tones may require modified settings or alternative approaches to reduce the risk of pigment changes. This is why ablative laser treatments should only be performed by experienced, Double Board Certified Dermatologists.
What are the risks of ablative laser resurfacing?
Potential risks include infection, prolonged redness, pigment changes, scarring, and delayed healing. These risks are minimized when treatment is performed by Fellowship Trained Laser Surgeons with strict safety protocols and appropriate aftercare.
How many ablative laser treatments are needed?
Many patients achieve excellent results with a single treatment, while others may benefit from staged or combination treatments depending on skin concerns and tolerance for downtime.
How long do ablative laser results last?
Results can last many years, especially when combined with proper skincare, sun protection, and maintenance treatments. Ablative lasers stimulate new collagen formation, which continues to improve skin quality over time.
Can ablative laser replace surgery?
Ablative laser resurfacing can significantly improve skin laxity, wrinkles, and texture but does not replace surgical procedures for significant excess skin. In some cases, it is used as an alternative or complement to surgery.
Is ablative laser resurfacing performed by non-physicians?
At St. Petersburg Skin and Laser, ablative laser procedures are physician-only and performed exclusively by Double Board Certified Dermatologists. No laser technicians, Physician Assistants, or Nurse Practitioners perform ablative laser treatments.
What should I avoid after ablative laser treatment?
Patients should avoid sun exposure, tanning, strenuous exercise, alcohol, and irritating skincare products during early healing. Broad-spectrum sunscreen and strict adherence to post-treatment instructions are essential.
When will I see the final results?
Initial improvement is visible once healing is complete, but final results continue to improve over several months as collagen production increases and skin remodeling occurs.
Why Choose St. Petersburg Skin and Laser?
Experience the highest standard of ablative laser treatment with our physician-only practice.
Physician-only practice
All treatments performed by board-certified physicians
Double Board-Certified Dermatologists
Highest level of medical expertise and training
Fellowship-level laser expertise
Advanced specialized training in laser surgery
Broadest selection of laser technology in Florida
Access to the most comprehensive laser systems
Personalized treatment plans
Customized approaches for individual needs
Advanced Cosmetic Dermatology care
Cutting-edge treatments with proven results
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