More Than a Surface-Level Fix

There's a point where lighter treatments simply stop being enough, where fine lines, textural roughness, or years of sun exposure have become significant enough that a more intensive approach makes sense. CO2 laser resurfacing exists for exactly this situation: it's built for patients who've likely already tried gentler options and are ready to invest in a longer recovery in exchange for more substantial, longer-lasting change. Our team offers CO2 laser resurfacing in Chevy Chase as one of the more powerful tools in our nonsurgical skin rejuvenation lineup.

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What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

This treatment uses focused laser energy to accomplish two things simultaneously: it removes the outermost, damaged layer of skin while delivering controlled heat to the deeper dermis, triggering a wound-healing response that ramps up collagen production. It's this combination, immediate removal paired with a longer-term biological response, that sets CO2 resurfacing apart from gentler resurfacing options. Because the treatment works at a deeper level than lighter lasers or peels, both the results and the associated downtime tend to be more significant.

The Benefits of CO2 Laser Resurfacing

  • Meaningful Improvement in Fine Lines: CO2 resurfacing is particularly effective around areas prone to fine lines, like the mouth and eyes.
  • A Genuine Textural Reset: Rough, uneven, or crepey-feeling skin often shows dramatic improvement following treatment.
  • Collagen Production That Continues to Build: The skin's healing response keeps generating new collagen for months after your actual treatment day.
  • Targets Stubborn Discoloration: Sun spots and pigmentation that haven't responded to lighter treatments often respond well to CO2's deeper approach.
  • Results Built for the Long Haul: Because this treatment prompts real tissue renewal, results tend to last considerably longer than more superficial options.
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Are You a Candidate for CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

This treatment is the right fit for patients dealing with more established, visible skin concerns. You may be a good candidate if:

  • Your fine lines, texture, or sun damage feel more moderate to significant rather than subtle
  • You've tried lighter treatments without achieving the depth of improvement you're looking for
  • You're able to plan for one to two weeks of visible healing before returning to normal activities
  • You understand this is a more intensive treatment with correspondingly more significant results

Our Chevy Chase team will evaluate your skin and discuss your specific goals during a consultation to help determine whether CO2 resurfacing fits what you're looking for.

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The CO2 Laser Resurfacing Process What to Expect

Initial Consultation

Your provider will evaluate your skin type and concerns to determine your candidacy and discuss the expected recovery process.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Your provider will determine the appropriate laser settings and treatment depth based on your specific goals.

Treatment Day

The CO2 laser is carefully applied to the treatment area, with numbing measures used to maximize your comfort throughout the procedure.

Recovery Guidance

You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions to support proper healing during your recovery period.

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Your Results

The visible healing process, redness followed by peeling, typically runs its course over one to two weeks, after which most patients feel comfortable returning to their normal routine.

What's worth understanding is that the story doesn't end once the peeling stops: the deeper collagen response your skin generated during healing continues working for months afterward, meaning your results in texture and firmness actually continue improving well past your initial recovery period.

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Why Choose Congressional Plastic Surgery in Chevy Chase?

  • Advanced Laser Technology: Our Chevy Chase office offers CO2 laser resurfacing to help patients achieve significant, longer-lasting improvements in skin quality.
  • Expert, Personalized Treatment Planning: Our providers carefully evaluate your skin to determine the appropriate treatment depth and settings for your specific goals.
  • Convenient Chevy Chase Location: Our office offers easy access for patients throughout Maryland and the greater Washington, DC, area seeking expert laser resurfacing.
  • Backed by Established Expertise: With Dr. Chang's double board certification and years of clinical experience, our team brings the same precision to CO2 resurfacing as we do to every procedure we perform.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing Frequently Asked Questions

How red will my skin actually look during recovery, and can I cover it with makeup?

Redness can be quite noticeable in the first several days, similar to a significant sunburn, and makeup is typically avoided until the skin has healed enough for your provider to clear it.

Is there a "fractional" version of CO2 resurfacing that's less intensive than full treatment?

Yes, some providers offer fractional CO2 treatments that treat a percentage of the skin at a time, which can reduce downtime somewhat compared to fully ablative treatment. Your provider can discuss which approach fits your goals.

Will my skin be more sensitive to sun exposure permanently after this treatment, or just during recovery?

Increased sun sensitivity is mainly a concern during the healing period itself, though diligent sun protection afterward remains important to protect your results long-term regardless.

How does CO2 resurfacing compare to something like Morpheus8 in terms of results?

CO2 resurfacing works by removing tissue directly with laser energy, while Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency without removing the surface layer. Both stimulate collagen, but CO2 generally produces more dramatic results with correspondingly more downtime.

Can this treatment be done on areas besides the face, like the neck or hands?

Yes, CO2 resurfacing can be applied to other sun-exposed or aging areas beyond the face, depending on your specific concerns and goals.

If I'm prone to cold sores, does that affect whether I can have this treatment?

Yes, this is worth mentioning to your provider beforehand, since laser treatments around the mouth can sometimes trigger a cold sore outbreak in patients with a history of them, and preventive medication may be recommended.

Testimonials What Our Patients Say

5 out of 5 stars

I honestly could not have had a better experience.

"I went to see Doctor Chang for a lip augmentation about a month ago. I have always had a really full bottom lip, but a super thin upper lip with not much definition. Doctor Cha...

"I went to see Doctor Chang for a lip augmentation about a month ago. I have always had a really full bottom lip, but a super thin upper lip with not much definition. Doctor Chang used Juvederm Ultra to make very subtle changes to my upper lip, making it more defined. My cupid's bow is now visible! My lips look SO natural that many people do not even notice unless I tell them, which in my opinion is a good thing! Doctor Chang is amazing; he made the procedure painless and actually enjoyable/fun. Prior to this, I was very nervous to try lip fillers. After meeting with Doctor Chang, I realized I was nervous over nothing! I honestly could not have had a better experience."

Kelee L.
5 out of 5 stars

I'm OBSESSED!!!

"I'm OBSESSED!!!! Obsessed with Dr. Chang, nurse Kelly, all the office staff, but MY OH MY the RESULTS!!! Dr. Chang is a true artist! I've been telling everyone I know about him...

"I'm OBSESSED!!!! Obsessed with Dr. Chang, nurse Kelly, all the office staff, but MY OH MY the RESULTS!!! Dr. Chang is a true artist! I've been telling everyone I know about him and his awesome work. You won't find a better surgeon, even in Beverly Hills! He can literally give liquid facelifts with Botox, does perfect contouring with filler, and is very conservative with his approach. You know you are in the best hands with him and his caring staff. Nurse Kelly is always available to answer questions on recovery, and you know she's seen it all, so she will even give you sound advice on the latest and greatest in products and procedures. Let me also say that I am in pharmaceutical sales, I am in and out of every single plastic surgery office all over the DMV, and this is the top practice in the entire area. The office is always busy, with super high standards, only offers the best products, and has the best-in-class surgeons. They are THE best. I would only ever trust these doctors, and Dr. Chang is ‘IT’ for me!”

Monica J.
5 out of 5 stars

Love my lips!

"Love my lips! Dr. Chang was very attentive to what I wanted and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole experience! His staff was welcoming, and all around, they took ...

"Love my lips! Dr. Chang was very attentive to what I wanted and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole experience! His staff was welcoming, and all around, they took great care of me. I will definitely be coming back to get my lips touched up and recommend his practice to friends!"

Alexandra R.
5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend!

"Dr. Chang used Voluma to augment my chin. The projection helped to harmonize my face and helped my side profile look even and natural. The filler was painless, the chin was a b...

"Dr. Chang used Voluma to augment my chin. The projection helped to harmonize my face and helped my side profile look even and natural. The filler was painless, the chin was a bit tender for a day or so, but nothing after that. Best investment for my face so far. Dr. Chang was very professional and made the whole appointment very relaxing and fun. Highly recommend!"

Atilla H.
5 out of 5 stars

It’s been a great experience working with him.

"I visited Dr. Chang to have my tear troughs (under eyes) filled. I was super scared of the potential bruising and that everyone would know I had “work done” because of it. Than...

"I visited Dr. Chang to have my tear troughs (under eyes) filled. I was super scared of the potential bruising and that everyone would know I had “work done” because of it. Thanks to Dr. Chang’s gentle injections and use of numbing cream that also helped prevent bruising, I had only two little tiny dot bruises that were unnoticeable with makeup. I now look much more rested, and I’m feeling so confident. Dr. Chang started slow with just one syringe of Volbella and two weeks later with a second. This allowed us to see where I needed more after some swelling went down, so as not to overdo it. I’m really happy with the results. I’ve also had Dr. Chang do some mid-cheek sculpting with filler, and he’s done an amazing job keeping it natural but noticeable. It’s been a great experience working with him."

Melanie C.
5 out of 5 stars

I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang!

"I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang! I came to his office wanting to have lip injections. Initially, I was very nervous to have this procedure done because I had a bad e...

"I had an amazing experience with Dr. Chang! I came to his office wanting to have lip injections. Initially, I was very nervous to have this procedure done because I had a bad experience at a different clinic in the past. However, Dr. Chang was very patient and understanding, and he didn't pressure me to do the procedure if I wasn't ready. I talked with him about my concerns and also about what results I wanted; he was very friendly, personable, and really listened to me. I ended up having 1ml of Juvederm injected into my top and bottom lips combined; the procedure felt very relaxed - Dr. Chang really took his time and made sure my lips looked great and that they were symmetrical (which I appreciated). Afterward, he told me to email him the next day to let him know how I was feeling, which I thought was really kind. It's now been two weeks since having the lip injections, and I really love the results! My lips look very natural, symmetrical, with just the right amount of plumpness. I will definitely be going back to Dr. Chang for any other cosmetic procedures. He and his office staff are great, and I had a wonderful experience!"

Jordan M.
5 out of 5 stars

I will definitely return!

"Dr. Chang did an excellent job with my Botox treatment. I had previously had trouble with drooping eyebrows from a different physician, but Dr. Chang took his time to make sure...

"Dr. Chang did an excellent job with my Botox treatment. I had previously had trouble with drooping eyebrows from a different physician, but Dr. Chang took his time to make sure it turned out perfectly. I will definitely return."

Kerry M.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best of the best.

"I am so thankful that I found Dr. Chang through Yelp. His ratings were all outstanding, and now I know why. I was immediately greeted by smiling faces and a friendly gentleman ...

"I am so thankful that I found Dr. Chang through Yelp. His ratings were all outstanding, and now I know why. I was immediately greeted by smiling faces and a friendly gentleman at the front desk. After a short wait, I was escorted to my room by a nurse who was absolutely the sweetest! I felt so comfortable, and all of my nervous thoughts (first timer here) just went away. After a couple of minutes, Dr. Chang came in, and we discussed what I wanted. Talk about professional and extremely personable, I cannot imagine a better experience. I'd like to point out that I didn't really have a specific look in mind - my only expectation was that I wanted to look natural, so I left it with Dr. Chang to work his magic. He guided me through my Botox and Juvederm injections and never once left me wondering about the procedure, next steps, or how to care for my new "work". It has been two weeks since I was in the office, and I cannot express my gratitude for Dr. Chang and all of his staff. It's amazing how such a minor procedure can boost your confidence. Even considering another Plastic Surgeon makes me fearful, Dr. Chang is the best of the best.”

Devon D.
5 out of 5 stars

Best decision ever!!!

"Best decision ever!!! I recently got Juvederm lip fillers for the first time 2 weeks ago, and I absolutely LOVE them! Dr. Chang answered all my questions about the procedure du...

"Best decision ever!!! I recently got Juvederm lip fillers for the first time 2 weeks ago, and I absolutely LOVE them! Dr. Chang answered all my questions about the procedure during my consultation. Two days later, I had my lip augmentation. I must admit the results were pretty AMAZING, and I look forward to seeing Dr. Chang for my next procedure. :)"

London B.
5 out of 5 stars

I am extremely happy with it!

"For my first time experiencing Botox, I am extremely happy with it! I thought that Dr. Chang took the time to sit and discuss things with me to ensure I felt comfortable, as we...

"For my first time experiencing Botox, I am extremely happy with it! I thought that Dr. Chang took the time to sit and discuss things with me to ensure I felt comfortable, as well as the fact that he did not push or pressure me into anything at all. The nurse, Kelly, got to know me, and I felt genuinely comfortable in the office. I will definitely be back in a couple of months, and I will also look into other fillers or peels. Thank you!"

Hillary A.
5 out of 5 stars

I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff.

"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff. I was nervous about my first time getting Botox, but I immediately felt at ease upon entering the office and being gr...

"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Chang and his staff. I was nervous about my first time getting Botox, but I immediately felt at ease upon entering the office and being greeted by the receptionist. She even accommodated me showing up on the wrong day for my follow-up appointment with no questions asked. Dr. Chang answered all of my questions and made me feel completely comfortable throughout the process. I am extremely happy with the results of my Botox in my forehead - smooth, but still natural looking. I would highly recommend Dr. Chang to anyone seeking similar services!"

Jessica J.
5 out of 5 stars

I recommend Dr. Chang !

"I got my lip augmentation done with Dr.Chang. It was an amazing experience. He has a very good attitude, was very nice to me, explained the whole process exactly, and was profe...

"I got my lip augmentation done with Dr.Chang. It was an amazing experience. He has a very good attitude, was very nice to me, explained the whole process exactly, and was professional and open to my questions. Besides that, the atmosphere in the entire office is very nice and pleasant. I recommend Dr. Chang !"

Anna L.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best.

"Dr. Chang is the best. I have had my Botox and lip fillers done by him. I love the results because they look natural. I feel beautiful every day. Thank you, Dr. Chang."

Nikki B.
5 out of 5 stars

I wish I had come in years ago

"Dr. Chang removed two moles from my face, and I could not be happier with the experience or the results. I am extremely fair-skinned—small acne marks can last for years—but jus...

"Dr. Chang removed two moles from my face, and I could not be happier with the experience or the results. I am extremely fair-skinned—small acne marks can last for years—but just a few months out from the procedure, and I have to look closely to find the tiny scars. The front office is well-run and pleasant, and the nurses put everyone at ease. Dr. Chang himself is among the nicest doctors you will ever meet - confident in his perceptions and medical advice, but not the least bit egotistical. I wish I had come in years ago (and I will certainly be back)!"

Erin T.
5 out of 5 stars

I am so glad I found Dr. Chang.

"I was very nervous to have any kind of filler used on my face. Dr. Chang's office made this experience about as wonderful as it could be. When I emailed to make a consultation ...

"I was very nervous to have any kind of filler used on my face. Dr. Chang's office made this experience about as wonderful as it could be. When I emailed to make a consultation appointment, I was met with an immediate reply, which was quickly transferred into a consultation. Upon my visit, I was greeted immediately and waited hardly any time at all. Finally, Dr. Chang's demeanor and attitude while seeing me were absolutely awesome. He treated me very respectfully and had a great sense of humor. I really enjoyed visiting with him during my consultation. So I decided to go ahead and get my lips filled after my consult during the same visit. It was great that they scheduled enough time to do that. So far, my lips are looking amazing, and I could not be more thrilled with the result. I'm hooked. DC is a big, intimidating area... finding professionals you enjoy working with is a big deal... especially for someone from a small town like myself. There are dozens of plastic surgeons in the area... but I am so glad I found Dr. Chang. I'm happy to support his practice and will definitely be referring anyone and everyone who asks to him."

Megan M.
5 out of 5 stars

I couldn't be happier with the end result.

"This is not my first experience with Dr. Chang and certainly not my last. I wouldn't want anyone else to touch my lips. Dr. Chang has an impeccable eye for achieving the perfec...

"This is not my first experience with Dr. Chang and certainly not my last. I wouldn't want anyone else to touch my lips. Dr. Chang has an impeccable eye for achieving the perfect aesthetic look. He takes into consideration my goals for the procedure and treats me with professionalism and respect. Dr. Chang used 2 syringes of Volbella. I experienced less swelling with this product compared to products I've used in the past. The product looks smooth and natural on my lips. I experienced minimal to no bruising and went to dinner the same day I had the procedure done. Dr. Chang's technique is almost painless; I only experienced some mild discomfort. I couldn't be happier with the end result. I love the way my lips look, and I love Dr. Chang."

Maurey F.
5 out of 5 stars

I will definitely be back

Dr.r Chang is amazing. It was my first time ever doing any procedure, so I was very nervous about getting lip filler,s but Dr. Chang made me feel very relaxed and took the time ...

Dr.r Chang is amazing. It was my first time ever doing any procedure, so I was very nervous about getting lip filler,s but Dr. Chang made me feel very relaxed and took the time to explain everything to me. He was very patient with me since I had a lot of questions and concerns. Even after the procedure, I emailed him questions, and he was always so quick to respond. I will definitely be back for fillers or any other procedures I need in the future, and will be recommending him to all my family and friends!"

Dee L.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best!

"Dr. Chang is the best! I went to his office yesterday for lip augmentation, and I am very, very happy with the results! I was nervous and panicked like everyone else for the fi...

"Dr. Chang is the best! I went to his office yesterday for lip augmentation, and I am very, very happy with the results! I was nervous and panicked like everyone else for the first time, but Dr. Chang made sure he walked me through everything. He knows what he is doing, and he is very knowledgeable. On top of that, he will be honest with you, but will do exactly what you want. The nurse and the rest of his staff were professional, nice, polite, and provided great customer service. I love my lips; it was painless, and I will definitely go back to visit Dr. Chang again."

Blanka B.
5 out of 5 stars

If I could give 100 stars, I would!!

"Alicia, the esthetician is AMAZING! She gave me, hands down, the best microdermabrasion treatment I've ever experienced! She's so knowledgeable about anything skin-related that...

"Alicia, the esthetician is AMAZING! She gave me, hands down, the best microdermabrasion treatment I've ever experienced! She's so knowledgeable about anything skin-related that it instantly puts you at ease. She gave me a regimen to follow after the treatment and a ton of information about keeping my skin looking great. :) Dr. Chang is also amazing. I felt very comfortable after the consultation, and my new lips look INCREDIBLE! Cannot recommend this place enough!! If I could give 100 stars, I would!!"

Rhonda E.
5 out of 5 stars

I’m super happy with the results!

"I met Dr. Jenny today. Being a years-long patient of Dr. Chang, it was a change for me to see a new face. She was warm, had great bedside manner, and listened to all my concern...

"I met Dr. Jenny today. Being a years-long patient of Dr. Chang, it was a change for me to see a new face. She was warm, had great bedside manner, and listened to all my concerns and requests. She patiently answered all my questions. She offered excellent solutions and more than anything - I felt almost nothing — wait for it — getting lip filler. We did Botox on frontalis, globella, dao, lip flip, and crows feet. She had a very gentle hand. I’m super happy with the results and so glad to see a woman surgeon killing it here at Congressional Plastic Surgery!" 

Beth S.
5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend Dr. Jenny and this practice!

I saw Dr. Jenny today for Botox and she is wonderful! Great bedside manner, expertise, and injections. Highly recommend her and this practice!

A. L.
5 out of 5 stars

I will be back for more procedures with Dr. Jenny

I made an appointment with dr Jenny today for lip filling for the first time. She was amazing - first I didn’t feel the pain that people talk about during the procedure. I had v...

I made an appointment with dr Jenny today for lip filling for the first time. She was amazing - first I didn’t feel the pain that people talk about during the procedure. I had very small lips she made them very natural and just the way I wanted them. Now I have some noticeable lips. And she explained to you everything before the procedure.
I will be back for more procedures with her.  I was recommended by a friend that comes hers

Rita G.

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