Patients who are dissatisfied with or embarrassed by acne scars, sun damaged skin, dark pigment spots, and wrinkles can address these problems non-surgically with Fraxel laser resurfacing. This treatment may be the next step when other, less aggressive treatments have not produced desired results. Fraxel laser resurfacing can be used to target problem areas on the face, neck, chest, and the back of the hands.
How does Fraxel laser resurfacing work?
A fractional CO2 laser can treat a variety of skin damage to provide smoother, younger-looking skin free from hyperpigmentation and other damage. Small areas are targeted with laser light waves. Untreated areas are not damaged. The laser removes the outer layer of skin in the treated areas and heats the underlying skin. The treatment stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that gives strength and elasticity to the skin. Fraxel laser resurfacing is an aggressive treatment used for severely aging and damaged skin.
Benefits of Fraxel laser resurfacing
Fraxel laser treatment is a good option for patients who have acne and other scarring, uneven skin texture, dark spots or hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and crepey skin. Fraxel treatments heal faster than other CO2 laser resurfacing because only specific areas are targeted. Many patients will only need one treatment to attain their desired results.
Is Fraxel for everyone?
Dr. Cristina Keusch only performs Fraxel laser resurfacing under full anesthesia following a surgical pre-op appointment. Patients should be in good general health. People with a history of poor wound healing or a compromised immune system may not be the best candidates. Fraxel laser resurfacing may not be appropriate for every skin type. Those with darker skin tones should discuss options with their physician. Patients who are considering the procedure must avoid sun exposure for several weeks before and after the procedure. The use of any topical treatments that irritate the skin must be discontinued. Those with active acne breakouts should postpone.
What is recovery like?
Fraxel laser resurfacing requires at least 5-7 days of recovery. Patients should expect soreness, swelling, redness, itching, oozing, and crusty skin. This is equivalent to a second degree burn. Complete healing takes 10-12 days, although redness may remain longer. Patients must stay out of the sun during the skin’s healing process.
Next Steps
It’s essential to select a highly trained physician for any laser treatments. Dr. Keusch is a board certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in providing Fraxel laser resurfacing treatments. Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center is an accredited ambulatory surgical center. If you are considering Fraxel laser resurfacing, contact Dr. Keusch today to schedule a consultation.