We’re proud to announce a new service at Ormiston that offers renewed hope for patients living with burn scars: CO₂ scar revision laser treatment, now available in partnership with the regional burns unit at Middlemore Hospital.
This advanced technology provides a non-surgical, highly targeted approach to softening burn-related scar tissue, particularly those that remain red, raised or tight long after the initial injury.
What is CO₂ Laser Therapy?
Unlike cosmetic or CT-based scar treatments, the CO₂ laser is a medical-grade tool designed to break down dense scar tissue and reduce inflammation, minimising redness and improving the overall comfort and mobility of the affected area.
Treatment is delivered through fractional laser technology, which stimulates new collagen growth in the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact, helping to gradually remodel the skin’s surface over time.
This therapy is especially helpful for patients with:
- Scars that are visibly red or inflamed
- Tight, uncomfortable skin following a burn
- Delayed healing from deep dermal injuries
Evidence-Based Results That Make a Difference
To support the introduction of this service, we reviewed the current evidence on CO₂ laser therapy in burn care. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that fractional CO₂ laser treatments alone led to statistically significant improvements in the appearance and function of burn scars.
Importantly:
- The majority of treatments were delivered safely in outpatient settings
- There were very few reports of adverse effects
- Patient and clinician satisfaction was consistently high
These findings highlight the potential for CO₂ laser therapy to be used as a safe, cost-effective first-line treatment for burn scar management.
By offering access to this evidence-based treatment at Ormiston, our goal is to give patients more options – earlier, safer & closer to home. For those living with the long-term impact of burns, CO₂ laser therapy can be a powerful tool to support healing, improve comfort & restore confidence without the need for invasive surgery.
Working With the Regional Burn Team
We’re working closely with the Auckland Regional Burns Centre to support patients currently waitlisted for this type of treatment, allowing us to offer access to CO₂ laser therapy outside of the public system. Dr Paul Baker, clinical leader of the New Zealand National Burns Service is leading this collaboration, and we’re proud to support his work with access to advanced equipment and clinical expertise here at Ormiston.
Supporting Patients and the Wider Health System
Most patients require several sessions spaced approximately six weeks apart, making treatment capacity a significant challenge in the public health system. By offering this service privately at Ormiston, we can:
- Reduce public waitlists
- Free up operating theatre time for acute and emergency procedures
- Provide timely, specialised care in a dedicated outpatient setting
This not only improves outcomes for individual patients, it also helps relieve pressure across the wider health system.
Interested in Treatment?
If you or someone you care for may benefit from CO₂ laser scar revision, speak with your specialist or GP about a referral to one of our physicians trained in this treatment.