Laser Skin Resurfacing

When applied to the skin, the Fraxel laser creates thousands of small columns in treatment zones invisible to the naked eye, targeting flawed skin without disturbing the surrounding healthy tissue. Fraxel is the only laser device designed to resurface the skin without penetrating the protective outer layer. This fractional treatment resurfaces 20 to 25 percent of the face at any one time, permitting healthy tissue to rapidly heal damaged cells. FLT reaches deep into the dermal layer to begin collagen remodeling in underlying layers, allowing the body’s natural healing systems to create new, healthy tissue that removes imperfections.

Alternatively, Fractional Ablative treatments can more aggressively resurface the skin should you have advanced sun damage and discoloration. Fractional ablative laser procedures require additional recovery time, since we are stripping the surface of your skin, and the body needs time to repair and heal the new layer. Patients with extensive damage to the skin are often recommended for fractional ablative laser treatments.

These laser treatments, which include the application of a topical anesthetic, typically take an hour to an hour and a half. Some patients can return to their usual activities (including work and social obligations) the same day. Other patients require slightly more recovery time, depending upon the condition of the skin and depth of treatment. There is no lengthy recovery for Fraxel, no anesthesia risks or side effects, and the treatment is tolerable.

The Fraxel laser treatment is FDA approved for skin resurfacing procedures addressing fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, and pigmented lesions (melasma, age spots, sun spots and dyschromia). UltraPulse can focus on deeper lines and folds in addition to scarring.

Based on clinical experience, doctors are reporting a noticeable improvement in patients after three to five treatments. In our practice, we have observed improvements in uneven skin color, tone, and wrinkles around the eye area. Fraxel laser skin resurfacing results are comparable to other traditional modalities associated with more significant side effects and downtime.

We have not experienced any significant adverse side effects, but have seen a small incidence of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with no reported cases of hypopigmentation. We look for cell turnover and peeling to evaluate these effects. After treatment, the skin tends to appear pinkish-red for a few days, with slight swelling immediately afterward. This reaction is normal and signifies that the dermal tissue has begun the repair process.

When there is good blood circulation, the skin will turn pink. Based on the depth of laser treatment, whether we’ve used ablative or non-ablative methods, there may be moderate swelling in the treatment area for a couple of days. This repair process starts with a bronzing of the skin that lasts anywhere from three days to two weeks after treatment, followed by a flaking of the dead tissue as the rejuvenated epidermal skin replaces damaged cells.

Treatment is tolerable and for many patients, virtually pain-free. We use a topical anesthetic ointment that alleviates any pain sensation, as well as contact cooling during laser applications to improve patient comfort. Patients can shave and apply makeup after treatment.

Senza patients are thrilled with our laser treatments, and we often receive word-of-mouth referrals. What makes laser skin resurfacing such a success is that every patient who receives treatment experiences significant cosmetic enhancements. Patients see consistent results with a softer, smoother and more toned face, plus ongoing improvements that leave you with vibrant, healthy and youthful skin.

Patients over 40 years old with a significant amount of sun damage, age spots, and scarring are the ideal candidates for laser skin resurfacing treatments. Fraxel laser treatment appeals to patients who want results with minimal downtime or risks.

At Senza we routinely combine treatments such as Botox, fillers and other minimally invasive treatments with laser skin resurfacing.

Results will vary by patient, but the best results come from healthy skin care regimens as advised by Dr. Rasi. Adequate sun protection and touch-up sessions can improve skin quality for years following the initial treatment series.