Subcutaneous carboxytherapy injection for aesthetic improvement of scars.

She was treated with a process called carboxytherapy that resulted in great improvement of the scars with minimal to no discomfort or down time. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) therapy was first introduced in France for cutaneous use.1 CO2 is a non-toxic gas that is naturally produced by cells as they undergo the process of metabolism. As CO2 accumulates in the tissues it induces dilatation of capillaries and results in increased blood flow to facilitate its removal.2 Lately, injection of the CO2 gas has been used to improve stretch marks, skin laxity, cellulite, dark circles under the eyes and scars. It is believed that the mechanism of action for carboxytherapy is two fold. Initially the mechanical injection of the CO2 gas causes destruction of fat cells and interruption of surrounding connective tissue. Secondly, the vasodilatory effects of CO2 gas allows the accumulation of inflammatory response and enhances the process of healing leading to increase collagen deposition and reorganization and eventual improvement in skin texture and tone. (Figures 3&4) Furthermore, the injection of CO2 has been shown to be relatively safe with little to no toxicity.1-5 As such, carboxytherapy can be used as an adjunct to liposuction in order to remove any irregularities. Furthermore, the revascularization and collagen remodeling effects of carboxytherapy lends itself to use for improvement of unsightly scars.1-3,5