Patients present to our clinic with a wide variety of age-related skin changes. Some have severe deep wrinkles, excess skin, and/or discoloration; these patients are usually treated with surgery or skin resurfacing (peels, aggressive lasers). But, other patients with mild to moderate wrinkles and discoloration can benefit greatly from a less invasive skin resurfacing such as that provided by a Fraxel laser.
How Fraxel works
Like other lasers, the Fraxel laser creates a mild burn to the skin, and after healing the skin is smoother, with reduced wrinkles and more uniform color. Fraxel lasers are unique, though, in that they only affect the skin in thousands of very small areas called “microscopic treatment zones”. These zones are separated from each other by normal, unaffected skin. Healing of the treatment zones originates in the unaffected skin, so the healing process is very rapid.
Usually, three to five Fraxel treatment sessions are needed to give the maximal benefit, but his benefit can be very impressive. Facial skin becomes smoother, and superficial wrinkles can become much smaller or even disappear. Aging color changes can be reduced, leaving the skin with a more uniform tone.
The Treatment
The Fraxel laser can be used on any skin, but the most common areas are the face, neck, and upper chest. Each session begins with the application of an anesthetic cream, which stays on for 45 to 60 minutes. Then, the laser is passed over the treated skin in multiple directions, to ensure an even treatment. This portion takes approximately 30 minutes. Patients may sense mild warmth in their skin during the treatment, or may feel nothing but mild pressure from the laser handpiece. In any event, patients are very comfortable.
After treatment, patients will feel like they are mildly sunburned. The treated skin will be somewhat swollen for two to three days, and will be pink for five to seven days. Makeup can be applied immediately after treatment. Application of facial moisturizers will help with healing, and the use of sunscreen is mandatory. The next treatment session, if needed, can be scheduled in two to four weeks. The final outcome will be visible soon after the last treatment, and should last years.
Fraxel treatments at the Aesthetic Facial Plastic Surgery Medical Clinic are provided by Dr. Hicks. If you are curious about the Fraxel laser, or just want advice concerning facial rejuvenation, Dr. Hicks will be happy to see you in consultation and answer all of your questions.
