One of the most popular treatments for rejuvenation of aging skin is laser resurfacing. Ablative resurfacing with carbon dioxide (CO2) is considered the gold standard for laser resurfacing. With fractional ablative resurfacing, scanners create an array of microscopic wounds at deep dermal depths surrounded by normal tissue, which allow for rapid healing of the laser-treated columns.
Now with a greater understanding of the pros and cons of all resurfacing options, we are experiencing a laser resurfacing renaissance. In order to better serve our patients, and make the recovery process as straightforward and non-restrictive as possible, we are now combining modalities such as traditional resurfacing for difficult wrinkles and treating the rest of the face with fractional lasers.
Our ability to custom create a procedure that maximizes results and minimizes patient inconvenience rests upon the fact that our team, led by Dr. Jill S. Waibel, strives each day to create and protect healthy skin that will last our patients a lifetime. This is the essence of what we do and drives our commitment to each laser skin resurfacing procedure we perform.
Our team uses a combination of innovative and effective laser technology–the Lumenis M22® IPL, Sciton BBL, and Ellipse IPL–in order to help create the healthy, beautiful skin you have been seeking so that you can walk forward with confidence. Regardless of the skin condition with which you are dealing, you can trust that our world-class team can create a plan that will address your concerns and leave you in awe of your new look.
Please keep in mind that laser skin resurfacing is a process. While you will see some improvements after each procedure, you may need a series of treatments, or you may seek to combine your treatment with BOTOX® to further enhance the results.
HOW MANY TREATMENT SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?
For the majority of patients, ideal results will be achieved after four to six treatments, typically spaced four to eight weeks apart. One of the benefits of this treatment is that results are long-lasting, so the beauty and health of your skin will be forever improved. Slight touch-ups may be needed periodically to maintain results.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED?
If you are looking to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, scars, hyperpigmentation, or veins, treatments with the Lumenis M22® system are helpful for improving the overall appearance of the face, neck, chest, back, and hands.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PERIOD?
Because Lumenis M22® is non-invasive, patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately following treatment. It is common to experience some redness, burning, and/or swelling, depending on the specific treatment performed, but these side effects typically resolve within seven days or less. You will be instructed to apply sunscreen daily, as your skin will be sensitive after treatment.
FRACTIONAL LASER RESURFACING
One of the most popular treatments for rejuvenation of aging skin is resurfacing. Ablative resurfacing with carbon dioxide (CO2) is considered the gold standard for laser resurfacing. The 2,940 nm Er:YAG device was developed next in this line of devices. The Er:YAG is absorbed 16 times more strongly by water than the CO2 laser. To address the adverse effects of ablative resurfacing and limited effects of nonablative lasers, the concept of fractional photothermolysis was developed. In fractional ablative resurfacing, photothermolysis scanners create an array of microscopic wounds at deep dermal depths with controlled collateral coagulation. These microscopic wounds result in zones surrounded by normal tissue, which allow for rapid healing of the laser-treated columns.
The development of the fractional ablative CO2 and Er:YAG devices showed impressive clinical effects. Non-ablative fractional resurfacing results are less robust, but have minimal downtime, whereas ablative fractional CO2 laser resurfacing and traditional resurfacing have variable degrees of downtime, but can achieve more dramatic results.
ABOUT FRAXEL® DUAL LASER
Fraxel® laser treatment is a safe and gradual laser procedure that stimulates the body to replace aged, scarred and photodamaged skin. The Fraxel® laser is a novel device that can provide the dramatic results of laser resurfacing using a less invasive technique with little downtime. Fraxel® is the skin rejuvenating treatment of choice for busy patients who cannot take time out of their schedule for prolonged recovery, but who are still seeking a noticeable improvement in their appearance.
The Fraxel® laser achieves its effects by a novel process called fractional resurfacing. Instead of treating the entire skin surface, it treats just a fractional percentage of the skin’s surface, thereby allowing the natural ability of the skin to heal itself very quickly after treatment.
At Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, our board-certified dermatologists use Fraxel® Dual 1550/1927 to treat sun spots, wrinkles and photoaging. Fraxel® has been safely used by our expert dermatologists to improve skin health and texture for many patients. The laser’s history of success, matched with our unwavering commitment to patient satisfaction ensures that your experience will be a positive one.
