

DOT Laser Resurfacing®
In Orlando & Lake Mary
As you age, your skin’s regenerative processes begin to slow down. With this comes an increase in aging signs like loose skin, fine lines, and pigmentation. Laser therapy is one way to restore the skin and reverse aging signs by stimulating healthy new collagen growth. Our Lake Mary office offers DOT laser skin resurfacing, a way to effectively experience micro ablative skin rejuvenation without downtime or discomfort.
DOT Laser Resurfacing®
What Is DOT Laser Resurfacing®?
DOT therapy stands for dermal optical thermolysis. DOT laser treatment uses laser energy to stimulate the skin’s collagen production and cell turnover rate. It generates microscopic channels in the skin that create immediate skin tightening, stimulate new collagen growth, and tighten the skin.
DOT laser therapy has a variety of benefits and uses, including:
- Improving skin quality and elasticity
- Reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Reducing the appearance of scars and acne scars
- Reversing pigmentation and sun damage

Who is a Candidate for DOT Laser Resurfacing®?
DOT therapy can be a great option for patients who want to rejuvenate their skin without downtime or discomfort – or who want to avoid harsh products or ingredients. Collagen rejuvenation using controlled laser energy is one of the best ways to enhance the underlying quality of the body's natural healing response, not just its appearance. Therefore, you can achieve a naturally brighter, more youthful look to your skin that reaches the deepest levels for true rejuvenation. During a consultation with Dr. Carlos Mercado at Eterna, MD, our team will help you determine whether DOT laser therapy can help you achieve your goals.
What Happens During DOT Laser Resurfacing®?
During your treatment session, your laser specialist will apply the handpiece to the skin where it will generate tiny, scanned pulses of energy, creating thousands of tiny holes. Once the full area has been treated, your laser technician will apply active ingredients to help boost collagen regeneration and then protect your skin with sunscreen for the rest of your day.
Meet Our Doctors​
Dr. Mercado & Dr. De La Vega
Eterna M.D., founded in 2006 by Drs. Carlos Mercado and Mara De La Vega, is a Central Florida medical center blending art, aesthetics, and medical expertise to help individuals achieve their beauty goals. Known for trademarked body contouring and traditional plastic surgery, the center emphasizes patient education and offers complimentary consultations. Eterna M.D. aims to make clients look and feel younger, providing a transformative experience through personalized care and innovative procedures in a compassionate environment.
DOT Laser Resurfacing FAQs
Can DOT laser therapy be combined with other treatments?
DOT laser therapy can be easily combined with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to further stimulate the production of healthy new skin cells. PRP can help support the mechanisms that create new collagen, leading to faster, more noticeable results.
Is there a recovery process?
Downtime is very minimal with DOT laser therapy. You may have some slight redness and swelling, but this subsides quickly. It’s most important to keep your skin protected from sunlight during your recovery.
How many sessions are needed for best results?
The number of sessions needed can depend on your unique goals, but many patients see noticeable results with only a single treatment. If you opt for additional treatments, we recommend you space them one month apart. We also recommend you return for yearly maintenance treatments to continually stimulate collagen and prevent further signs of aging.
What skin concerns can DOT Laser Resurfacing treat?
DOT Laser Resurfacing is a versatile treatment designed to address a variety of skin concerns with precision and effectiveness. This advanced laser technology targets skin imperfections by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin regeneration. It is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and minimize acne scars, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation. The treatment also improves texture, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking a non-surgical solution to rejuvenate their facial appearance.
What is DOT Laser Resurfacing?
DOT Laser Resurfacing is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that utilizes fractional CO2 laser technology to improve the appearance of skin texture, tone, and elasticity. This non-surgical procedure targets the outer layers of skin, stimulating the bodys natural collagen production and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells. Its ideal for those looking to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and sun damage. The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin with minimal downtime compared to more invasive treatments.
Who is a good candidate for DOT Laser Resurfacing?
Good candidates for DOT Laser Resurfacing are typically those who are looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin without undergoing invasive surgical procedures. Its also perfect for anyone struggling with fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and mild to moderate skin laxity. People with acne scars, uneven skin tone, or large pores may also benefit from this procedure. It is also important for candidates to have realistic expectations about the results and be in generally good health.
How does DOT Laser Resurfacing work?
The DOT stands for Dermal Optical Thermolysis, a technique where the laser creates thousands of microscopic perforations on the skin, which promotes natural collagen production and cell renewal while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This encourages rapid healing, and as the skin heals, it appears smoother, firmer, and more youthful.
Is DOT Laser Resurfacing painful?
Generally, DOT Laser Resurfacing is virtually painless, especially with the application of a topical anesthetic before the treatment. The procedure works by creating micro-injuries in the skin to promote natural collagen production and skin regeneration, which may cause a sensation similar to tiny pinpricks or a mild sunburn. While pain tolerance varies from person to person, the sensation experienced is typically manageable and subsides quickly after the procedure.
What is the recovery time after DOT Laser Resurfacing?
The recovery time after DOT Laser Resurfacing typically varies depending on the individuals skin type and the treatment intensity. Generally, patients can expect the initial healing phase to last about 5 to 7 days, during which the skin may appear red and swollen, similar to a sunburn. As the skin begins to heal, you may experience some peeling or flaking as new, rejuvenated skin surfaces. Its crucial during this time to follow post-treatment care instructions, including moisturizing and sun protection, to ensure optimal results and minimize downtime. Full recovery may take a few weeks.
How many DOT Laser Resurfacing sessions will I need?
The number of DOT Laser Resurfacing sessions you may need can vary significantly based on your individual skin concerns and aesthetic goals. DOT Laser Resurfacing often requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. Typically, a series of 3 to 5 sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart is recommended to maximize the skins natural healing process and collagen production. However, some individuals with more severe skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles or extensive sun damage, might need additional treatments for the best outcome.
When will I see results from DOT Laser Resurfacing?
DOT Laser Resurfacing often yields noticeable results within a few days to a week after the procedure. While you can expect some initial redness and swelling immediately after the treatment, these effects usually subside within a week. Visible improvements in skin texture, tone, and tightness typically become more apparent as the healing progresses, with optimal results often seen after about three months.
Can DOT Laser Resurfacing be combined with other treatments?
DOT Laser Resurfacing is a versatile treatment that can indeed be combined with other non-surgical facial procedures to enhance overall results. By blending treatments such as injectables like Botox or dermal fillers with DOT Laser Resurfacing, patients can address multiple skin concerns simultaneously, achieving a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
How should I care for my skin after DOT Laser Resurfacing?
Proper aftercare is crucial following DOT Laser Resurfacing to ensure optimal healing and maximize results. Immediately after the procedure, its normal to experience redness, swelling, and mild discomfort, similar to a sunburn. To care for your skin, gently cleanse your face with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser to remove any impurities without irritating the treated area. Keeping your skin moisturized is also essential, so apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer to prevent drying and ensure the skin remains supple. It is also important to avoid picking or scratching at any scabs or peeling skin to prevent scarring. Additionally, protect your skin from sun exposure by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, as the treated skin will be especially sensitive to UV rays.

Contact Us
At Eterna MD we believe in not only making you look younger, but also in making you feel younger. We are famous for our Body Contouring, Fat Reductions, Fillers, and Lift Makeovers! Our two expert physicians take pride in their work and dedicate their time to give each patient personalized care.
At Eterna MD we believe in not only making you look younger, but also in making you feel younger. We are famous for our Body Contouring, Fat Reductions, Fillers, and Lift Makeovers! Our two expert physicians take pride in their work and dedicate their time to give each patient personalized care.
