How does the FRAXEL® Laser work?
The FRAXEL® Laser produces thousands of tiny columns of laser energy that penetrate the skin and create microscopic "wounds" beneath the skin while leaving the skin surface intact. These microscopic "wounds" stimulate the formation of new healthy skin and collagen, which firms up the skin. During the healing phase, old skin cells and pigment (brown spots) are gradually removed.
What should I expect after FRAXEL® Laser treatment?
During the first 24 hours after treatment, your skin may feel as though you have a sunburn, and it will appear slightly red. Concealer make-up can be worn to hide the redness. Your skin will then have a somewhat bronze appearance during the first week as the unwanted pigment works its way to the surface. With each treatment, the sunburned-to-bronze conditions will repeat. As new skin cells replace the old cells, your skin will flake and exfoliate. Using a moisturizer will help reduce the appearance of dry flakes.
Is FRAXEL® Laser treatment painful?
A topical anesthetic cream is applied before treatment and this will eliminate almost all of the discomfort. Most patients describe the treatment as a "warm, tingling" sensation. Any discomfort after the treatment is relieved by Tylenol® or Motrin® (ibuprofen).
What are the risks of FRAXEL® Laser treatments?
Swelling and redness are the most common side effects of the FRAXEL® Laser, and they are a normal response to an effective treatment. Swelling is minimal and it will respond to cold packs and subside within a day or two. Redness will fade within a few days. There is a very small risk of infection or scarring, especially compared with the CO2 laser.
Your skin will be extra sensitive for about 3 months after treatment. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and avoid prolonged sun exposure during this time. If you are out on a sunny day, a wide brimmed hat is also helpful to reduce direct sun exposure.
How many treatments will I need?
Clinical research has shown that an effective treatment regimen is 3 to 5 sessions with each treatment spaced 4 weeks apart. I have personally found that 4 treatments most often produce the best result. Improvement is seen quickly and additional improvement will be seen over several months as new collagen continues to form. Spacing the treatments out every 4 weeks allows for complete healing and replacement of your old skin cells with new collagen and healthy skin.
Please give Renaissance Plastic Surgery a call at 317-575-9152 or contact our Indianapolis cosmetic surgery office online if you would like to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Fata.
