A Modern Take on Laser Resurfacing in Valdosta

As a focal point for communication and emotional expression, the face conveys our essence and personality. As we age, the formation of lines, wrinkles, and creases can leave us feeling self-conscious. While a daily skincare regimen can help combat these imperfections in the short term, the complexion may require a cosmetic intervention to maintain its beautiful, elegant appearance over time. We’re excited to offer CoolPeel—now elevated through our Fusion treatment—as part of our ongoing commitment to cutting-edge skin rejuvenation in a state-of-the-art, patient-focused setting.

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What Is CoolPeel?

CoolPeel is a revolutionary CO₂ laser treatment that refreshes and resurfaces the skin.
Delivered through the advanced Helix laser, CoolPeel uses ultra-short, high-peak-power pulses (H-pulse technology) to remove damaged surface cells while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. It is designed to:

  • Refine texture
  • Minimize pores
  • Reduce sun damage
  • Smooth fine lines

Now, CoolPeel is offered as part of our Fusion protocol, which pairs this fractional ablative treatment with Sultra, a non-ablative laser that stimulates deep collagen production. This next-generation approach enhances your results without increasing recovery time, offering a “CoolPeel, New & Improved” experience for smoother, brighter, firmer skin.

Which Laser Is Used to Perform CoolPeel?

CoolPeel is performed with the Helix Laser, a state-of-the-art platform combining ablative CO₂ and non-ablative 1570nm technology. This system powers both CoolPeel and Sultra. When used together as Fusion, they deliver exceptional resurfacing and rejuvenation in a single treatment. With precise controls and customizable settings, the Helix laser allows us to safely treat even delicate facial areas, such as the eyes, lips, and nose.

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What Can I Expect From My Session?

CoolPeel treatments are quick and comfortable, and no anesthesia is required. The Helix laser emits controlled energy pulses to the targeted treatment zones during the session.

As part of the Fusion protocol, the CoolPeel component gently resurfaces the outer layers, while the Sultra component delivers heat beneath the surface to promote firming and collagen remodeling. The process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the area treated. Most patients describe the sensation as warm with light tingling. Thanks to Helix’s precision and power, downtime remains minimal even with this dual approach.

What Are the Benefits?

  • Improves skin tone and texture
  • Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and creases
  • Minimizes sun spots and hyperpigmentation
  • Refines enlarged pores
  • Stimulates natural collagen and elastin production
  • Brightens dull, tired-looking skin
  • Offers visible tightening and smoothing
  • Minimal recovery time—often just 24 hours of redness
  • Customizable for all skin types
  • Can treat the face, neck, décolleté, and hands
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Our Patients Own Words

4.9 stars from 276 Google reviews

5 out of 5 stars

Very professional. Excellent care!

Very professional. Excellent care! 1 to 10 rating, I would give this entire staff and Dr. Merriman a 10, hands down. We live 2 hours away, but coming here was the best decision....

Very professional. Excellent care! 1 to 10 rating, I would give this entire staff and Dr. Merriman a 10, hands down. We live 2 hours away, but coming here was the best decision. I am very pleased with my results.

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5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely LOVE this place!!

Absolutely LOVE this place!! I’ve been coming here for over 10 years and recently moved to Tallahassee, Florida. However, that still does not stop me from seeing Dr. Merriman. T...

Absolutely LOVE this place!! I’ve been coming here for over 10 years and recently moved to Tallahassee, Florida. However, that still does not stop me from seeing Dr. Merriman. The entire staff is also absolutely professional, very thorough, and extremely warming so much so that it literally feels like a family. And you don’t get that very many places, so I will forever continue to come here and only here. And highly recommended !!!

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5 out of 5 stars

The staff was unbelievable, and Dr. Merriman was fantastic.

Having never been to a plastic surgeon before, I had no idea what to expect. I cannot express enough how impressed I was with the treatment I received. I was made to feel comfor...

Having never been to a plastic surgeon before, I had no idea what to expect. I cannot express enough how impressed I was with the treatment I received. I was made to feel comfortable the minute I walked in the door. The staff was unbelievable, and Dr. Merriman was fantastic. I was made to feel as if I had known them my entire life. The reason I give a 5-star rating is because I don't see a 10-star rating. lol. Thank you, ladies, so much for the service you provide and the manner in which you provide care.

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5 out of 5 stars

Honestly can not say enough good things about this office.

Honestly can not say enough good things about this office. The entire staff is welcoming & warm. I never feel self-conscious about anything, nor have I ever been made to fee...

Honestly can not say enough good things about this office. The entire staff is welcoming & warm. I never feel self-conscious about anything, nor have I ever been made to feel afraid about asking questions. I literally drive 1.5 hours from home to see Pam, Ashli & Melanie for all my treatments. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!!

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5 out of 5 stars

I am very pleased with the results!!

I have been very pleased with all the services I receive at Sonya Merriman; everyone is so friendly and professional. I have had a light chemical peel, microneedling, and hydraf...

I have been very pleased with all the services I receive at Sonya Merriman; everyone is so friendly and professional. I have had a light chemical peel, microneedling, and hydrafacial by Amy, who is fantastic. She is extremely knowledgeable and provides suggestions to get the results I want without making me feel pressured or uncomfortable. I am very pleased with the results!!

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5 out of 5 stars

I had a great experience with my procedure!!!

I had a great experience with my procedure!!! This clinic loves its patients! The compassion that is shown is awesome! 🤩 Yes, indeed, I will be back! Excellent professionalism,...

I had a great experience with my procedure!!! This clinic loves its patients! The compassion that is shown is awesome! 🤩 Yes, indeed, I will be back! Excellent professionalism, dedication to patients, and you feel well taken care of from the first to the finish!

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5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend Mrs. Sonya Merriman’s office.

Highly recommend Mrs. Sonya Merriman’s office. I had my breast augmentation done a couple of days ago, and I couldn’t ask for a better experience than the one I had! Everyone in...

Highly recommend Mrs. Sonya Merriman’s office. I had my breast augmentation done a couple of days ago, and I couldn’t ask for a better experience than the one I had! Everyone in the office is absolutely fantastic, definitely feel like family once you leave. Liz was great at going over everything with me before my consultation. Dr. Sonya came in and talked to me for a good 20 minutes and explained to me the different implants, what she would do, etc., asked for her opinion on my size, and I felt completely comfortable!! Kelley was my nurse, and she was great!! She helped answer any questions my husband and I had before I went back. Also, Dr. Sonya’s husband was the anesthesiologist and was so kind! He’s the last person I remember talking to before I was out, haha. I love how they call and check on you after your surgery, and if there is anything you may need. My recovery so far has been absolutely amazing, and I couldn’t have done without their support and instructions on what to do after surgery. I highly recommend their office for everything ❤️ definitely will be back!

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5 out of 5 stars

I highly recommend their office.

I count myself lucky to have had the opportunity to get my procedure done with Dr. Merriman. I had breast augmentation six months ago (lift and implants). Initially, I felt appr...

I count myself lucky to have had the opportunity to get my procedure done with Dr. Merriman. I had breast augmentation six months ago (lift and implants). Initially, I felt apprehensive about the process. Fear of the unknown, I suppose. But at Valdosta Plastic Surgery, the process was laid out step-by-step. Everyone was kind, helpful, and made sure I received answers to any questions I may have. From the start, there were no surprises about costs or timelines. That was laid out nicely for me in the initial callback I received in response to my online consultation request. Dr. Merriman was sure to tell me about the risks and took the time during the initial office consultation to listen/look at my desired outcome. Again and again, I was reminded that if I had any questions, then I could reach out to Dr. Merriman directly after the surgery. They made me feel so comfortable that I reached out two times to ask a question. I received immediate responses. In the end, recovery was a piece of cake. Though Dr. Merriman will tell you that it is different for everyone. I thought the instructions I received for managing the recovery were spot on. It has now been 6 months since the surgery, and the outcome is better than everything I had hoped for. They are symmetrical, even, I have feelings in both nipples, and the size is exactly what I had hoped for. Interestingly, she used one size bigger than what was initially considered. I attribute that to Dr. Merriman's keen eye for aesthetics and high level of experience. She had seen what outcome I had envisioned, and during surgery, she fit me with the right size to achieve the look that I was hoping for. I am so glad that I decided on Valdosta Plastic Surgery. I highly recommend their office. I count myself lucky to have had the opportunity to get my procedure done with Dr. Merriman.

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5 out of 5 stars

Baylee is amazing and very thorough with her work.

Baylee is amazing and very thorough with her work. I couldn’t have asked for a better aesthetician. And Mrs. Carolyn is such a sweetheart, always makes me feel welcomed & co...

Baylee is amazing and very thorough with her work. I couldn’t have asked for a better aesthetician. And Mrs. Carolyn is such a sweetheart, always makes me feel welcomed & comfortable as soon as I walk in those doors. (The entire staff here makes you feel safe.) Although I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Merriman, she has a wonderful team & establishment built. I look forward to coming back every time and will 100% come here for any future work I plan on having done! ❤️❤️❤️

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5 out of 5 stars

I will never go anywhere else.

I will never go anywhere else. The staff at Plastic Surgery Associates make sure all of your needs are met and go above and beyond! I’ve never had a bad experience, and I know I...

I will never go anywhere else. The staff at Plastic Surgery Associates make sure all of your needs are met and go above and beyond! I’ve never had a bad experience, and I know I never will. They truly want to know their customers!

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Am I a Good Candidate for CoolPeel + Fusion?

Candidates typically:

  • Are not taking medications that increase photosensitivity or interfere with healing
  • Are in good general health
  • Have mild to moderate signs of aging, sun damage, or textural concerns
  • Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Are free of active skin infections or open lesions in the treatment area

During your consultation, Dr. Merriman will evaluate your skin, medical history, and goals to determine whether CoolPeel alone or Fusion best suits your needs.

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What Can I Expect After My Treatment?

Following your CoolPeel or Fusion session, you may notice mild redness or a warm sensation—similar to a light sunburn—for 24 to 48 hours. Most patients resume normal activities within a day. You may use mineral makeup the following morning, and should apply moisturizer regularly to support skin hydration and recovery.

What Kind of Results Will I See?

CoolPeel (and Fusion) treatments reveal smoother, softer, and more radiant skin in as little as 1 to 2 weeks. As collagen rebuilds in the deeper layers of your skin, results continue to improve over 2 to 3 months. Many patients achieve their best outcome after a customized series of sessions, spaced a few weeks apart.

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Dr. Sonya Merriman, plastic surgeon

Why Choose Dr. Merriman?

Dr. Sonya J. Merriman brings over 30 years of experience, board certification, and a five-star RealSelf rating to every treatment she performs. Trained at the Medical College of Georgia and completing elite residencies in general and plastic surgery, she has dedicated her career to offering natural-looking, confidence-boosting results in a warm, boutique environment. Her focus on patient safety, honest guidance, and tailored care ensures that your CoolPeel or Fusion experience will be both transformative and empowering.

Confidence starts with a conversation.

Meet with us and discover a clinic where we focus on creating natural-looking results in every procedure.

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