CO2 laser cost in Brisbane
CO2 laser pricing in Brisbane varies significantly with the device, the depth of treatment and the area covered. This guide explains the difference between fractional and ablative pricing, what affects cost, and how to compare quotes.
Typical CO2 laser costs in Brisbane
| Service | Typical price range (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small area (perioral, periorbital, scar) | $500 – $1,500 | Single session; multiple sessions may be recommended. |
| Full face fractional CO2 (per session) | $1,200 – $3,500+ | Most common Brisbane offering; depth/density varies. |
| Course of 3 lighter fractional sessions | $2,500 – $6,000 | Often discounted when prepaid as a package. |
| Full face deep ablative CO2 | $3,000 – $6,000+ | Performed less frequently; longer recovery. |
| Face + neck combined | $2,500 – $5,000+ | Common for sun-damage skin in QLD; depth typically lighter on the neck. |
| Initial consultation | $0 – $150 | Some clinics waive consultation fees if treatment is booked. |
| Aftercare products | $50 – $250 | May be included in the package or charged separately. |
Prices are illustrative ranges from publicly listed clinic information and may not reflect current fees. Confirm pricing directly with the clinic before booking.
Pricing is indicative of publicly available Brisbane offerings and will change over time. Cosmetic laser is not Medicare-rebatable; medical-indication treatments such as actinic keratosis management may attract a rebate.
What drives cost
- Device. Newer ablative platforms may price higher; older devices may be cheaper but produce different results.
- Depth and density of treatment. Deeper, denser settings = more downtime, more product/anaesthetic, higher cost.
- Operator. Specialist dermatologists and cosmetic doctors typically charge more than laser nurses, though training varies.
- Anaesthesia. Topical numbing is standard; nerve blocks or sedation cost more.
- Aftercare and reviews. Bundled aftercare improves total value but raises the headline price.
Compare quotes apples-to-apples
- Ask each clinic for the depth/density planned for your skin and goals.
- Ask whether the price covers one session or a course.
- Confirm whether antiviral prophylaxis, aftercare and review are included.
- Ask about cost if a touch-up is needed (some clinics include one within 6 weeks).
- Compare total expected cost across your full treatment plan, not just session 1.
Frequently asked questions
How much does CO2 laser cost in Brisbane?
A single full-face fractional CO2 session typically costs $1,200–$3,500+ in Brisbane. Deeper or fully ablative full-face treatments commonly range from $3,000–$6,000+. Small-area treatments (perioral, periorbital or scar revision) often start at $500–$1,500 per session.
Why is fractional CO2 cheaper than full ablative?
Fractional CO2 treats only a portion of the skin surface in microscopic columns, leaving healthy tissue in between to speed healing. This usually allows for shorter treatment time, less downtime, and a smaller dose of energy — all of which reduce cost compared with fully ablative resurfacing.
Are package deals worth it?
For lighter fractional CO2 a course of 2–4 sessions is often recommended, and bundled packages can offer real savings (commonly 10–25%). For a single deeper treatment a package is less relevant. The most important factor remains the clinician’s judgement about the right depth and number of sessions for your skin.
Is CO2 laser Medicare-rebatable?
Purely cosmetic laser resurfacing is not Medicare-rebatable. Medical indications — for example treatment of actinic keratoses (sun spots) by a medical practitioner — may attract a rebate under specific MBS items. Confirm with the clinic before booking.
What is included in a typical quote?
A complete quote should include: the consultation, topical or local numbing, the treatment itself, any aftercare products provided by the clinic, and at least one review appointment. Photography and emergency review after side effects should be part of standard care. Ask explicitly what is included.
How can I compare quotes between clinics?
Ask each clinic to specify the device, treatment depth/density, expected downtime, included aftercare, and number of sessions in their recommendation. A lower headline price for a lighter treatment is not directly comparable to a higher price for a deeper treatment.
Related cosmetic guides
Sources
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)last checked 2026-05-12
- AHPRA — Advertising obligations for registered health practitionerslast checked 2026-05-12
- DermNet — Laser resurfacinglast checked 2026-05-26
- MBS Online — Medicare Benefits Schedulelast checked 2026-05-11