FRAXEL™ LASER TREATMENT (FLT)
Cosmetic skin surgery has a new laser for anti-aging and sun-damaged skin and it is called Fraxel™. Up until now, there have been two categories of laser therapy; ablative and non-ablative procedures. Non-ablative treatments are low risk procedures such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) that require numerous treatment sessions over months that produce a mild clinical improvement in the skin. Ablative techniques such as CO2 Resurfacing are more aggressive treatments for sun-damaged and aging skin that definitely offer superior cosmetic results, but are associated with increased risks of scarring and pigment changes in the skin. They are also associated with prolonged recovery times. The goal of any new laser technology is to combine the best of both worlds into one machine that can give superior results to current non-ablative technology without the downtime of current ablative technology. This is the goal of Fraxel™ Laser Treatment.
HOW FRAXEL™ WORKS
Much like the new technology with digital cameras, that work pixel-by-pixel and spot-by-spot, the Fraxel™ Laser is designed to alter fractional volumes of the target tissue. The clinical result of the treatment is to alter the appearance of sun-damaged skin, affecting especially brown spots and wrinkles. Small, microscopic wounds result in an active wound healing process that stimulates collagen in the skin. Thus patients have a much quicker recovery time than traditional ablative therapies and minimal side effects. Side effects with Fraxel™ Laser Treatments include minor swelling and redness, with swelling subsiding within one-to-two days after a session and redness lasting a few days. The area is coverable with make-up almost immediately and patients can return to their normal routines. There is usually no crusting or oozing as is with other ablative therapies. As with any laser treatment, there is always a risk of infection or scarring, and these side effects are minimized with this current technology.
WHAT IS A TYPICAL TREATMENT?
Clinical research of Fraxel™ suggests that 4-6 treatments over 2-4 months produces a gradual remodeling of the dermal components of the skin to give the skin a fresher, newer appearance. Gradually over months, the clinical improvement in photo-aged skin is dramatic and positive skin changes are noticeable.
The session includes cleansing the skin with a mild cleanser, and then a blue tint is applied to the skin to improve the skin surface contrast. This allows the laser hand piece to read the tiny, discreet contours of the area to be treated. A typical full face treatment takes generally less than one hour. Unlike other ablative therapies, Fraxel™ Laser Treatment can be used to treat virtually any area of the body where the goal is to improve skin texture, appearance, wrinkles and brown spots.
SAFETY AND PAIN FACTOR
The Fraxel™ Laser is considered safe and effective for treating photo-aged skin. Treatment sessions are well-tolerated. The laser feels like a small pricking sensation and topical anesthetic is all that is required to reduce discomfort.
If you would like more information about this new and exciting skin rejuvenation laser, please contact me at Hecker Dermatology Group. Offices are located in Deerfield Beach and Pompano Beach. Call us for an appointment: 954-783-2323.
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