LASER TREATMENT FOR CYSTIC ACNE & MILIA

MICRO CO₂ LASER–ASSISTED DRAINAGE

CLINICAL OVERVIEW

Micro CO₂ laser–assisted drainage is a physician-performed procedure used for selected cases of cystic acne and milia. It is designed to address deep, encapsulated lesions that are painful, recurrent, slow to resolve, or at risk for scarring.

This procedure does not cure acne, but it may significantly reduce inflammation, shorten lesion duration, and help prevent repeated cyst formation in the same location when used as part of a comprehensive acne treatment plan.

WHAT THIS PROCEDURE TREATS

Micro CO₂ laser–assisted drainage may be considered for:

Deep inflammatory or cystic acne lesions
Recurrent cysts that repeatedly flare in the same area
Painful or tense lesions not responding to topical therapy
Selected cases of milia requiring precise opening and evacuation

Lesion selection is individualized and based on depth, location, skin type, and overall acne pattern.

HOW MICRO CO₂ LASER–ASSISTED DRAINAGE WORKS

Using an ablative CO₂ laser, each selected lesion is treated individually.

The procedure involves:

Creating a precise micro-opening using focused laser pulses
Controlled drainage of purulent or keratinous contents
Disruption of cyst wall structures, which helps reduce recurrence

This controlled approach allows targeted treatment while minimizing trauma to surrounding healthy skin.

WHY THIS APPROACH IS USED

Over years of clinical use, laser-assisted micro I&D has shown benefits in selected patients:

Rapid reduction of inflammation
Lower likelihood of the same cyst reforming
Reduced risk of scarring compared with repeated spontaneous rupture
Faster response to medical acne therapy when used as an adjunct

THIS PROCEDURE SHOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH NON-MEDICAL EXTRACTIONS

The following non-medical or cosmetic approaches are different from micro CO₂ laser–assisted drainage and are not equivalent:

Manual extractions
Comedone extractor treatments
Cosmetic acne facials

These methods do not address cyst wall structures and may increase inflammation, prolong healing, or raise the risk of scarring when used on cystic lesions.

ANESTHESIA & PATIENT COMFORT

A topical numbing cream is applied in-office approximately 45–60 minutes prior to treatment
Injectable anesthesia is typically not required
Sensation during treatment is usually described as brief, sharp stinging

RECOVERY & DOWNTIME

Mild redness or swelling may occur at treated sites
Small crusts may form and resolve naturally
Most patients resume normal activities the same day
Treated lesions typically improve faster than untreated cysts

IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS

This procedure does not prevent new acne from forming
Ongoing medical acne management is often necessary
Results vary depending on acne severity, skin type, and adherence to follow-up care

Micro CO₂ laser–assisted drainage is best viewed as an enhancement, not a replacement, for medical acne treatment.

INSURANCE & COVERAGE

Coverage varies by plan.
While previously covered in some cases, micro CO₂ laser–assisted I&D for acne is no longer covered by most insurance plans and is typically considered a self-pay procedure. This is discussed clearly during consultation.

Explore our Skin Surgery & CO₂ Laser Procedures for related treatments.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you have painful, persistent, or recurrent cystic acne lesions, a professional evaluation may help determine whether this procedure is appropriate.

📞 Call (847) 518-9999

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on clinical findings, acne severity, skin type, and patient-specific factors. Outcomes may vary.