Fraxel Repair
Palo Alto Dermatology Institute patients who are dealing with acne scars, burn scars, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines, or other visible skin damage may be good candidates for treatments with the Fraxel Repair Fractional CO2 Laser. This device is an ablative laser that was designed to provide dramatic laser skin resurfacing outcomes.1 However, though Fraxel Repair Laser is meant for aggressive treatment, it is generally a safe procedure, when performed by an expert practitioner at Palo Alto Dermatology Institute. Our providers are highly trained in laser skin resurfacing treatments and have helped thousands of patients with laser technology like the Fraxel Repair Laser. Our Founder, Dr. Greg S. Morganroth began using this laser in 2007 and was one of the first physicians in Silcon Valley to resurface the face, neck and chest and one of the first physicians in the United States to combine fractional resurfacing at the same time as a face lift (2007).
The Fraxel Repair Laser is an ablative laser that works by vaporizing a portion of the skin cells in the treatment area.1 This approach has several benefits for Palo Alto Dermatology Institute patients.
Firstly, some of the previously damaged skin cells (which account for dull skin and hyperpigmentation, among other issues) are vaporized by the laser. This means that some of the hyperpigmentation from acne scars, melasma, or liver spots can be directly targeted.
Secondly, the micro skin damage caused by the laser stimulates the body’s immune system to repair the damage. In the process, new, healthy skin cells are produced, as well as additional collagen fibers that improve the skin’s support network.
Further, it is important to note unlike earlier laser technology that treated the entire surface area (Ultrapulse CO2 laser), the Fraxel Repair is an ablative fractional laser. This means that laser wavelengths are delivered to the skin according to a specialized microgrid. By doing this, damage is caused only to a fraction of the skin, while the surrounding tissue remains healthy. This type of technology has been shown to reduce overall healing times and side effects, while still providing dramatic outcomes after the skin heals.
Palo Alto Dermatology Institute providers use the Fraxel Repair Laser to treat a number of skin conditions, including; fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, dark spots on face, and other hyperpigmentation.
In some ways, the Fraxel Repair Laser is similar to aggressive chemical peels and works on the same premise of removing dead and damaged skin cells, so that healthy cells can grow in its place.
The Fraxel Repair Laser is a powerful technology that must be used with great care. In the hands of Palo Alto Dermatology Institute providers, this laser treatment is safe because our providers have extensive training and experience since 2007 in how to administer this laser treatment, and have used their expertise to help countless patients.
Further, in addition to proper laser treatment techniques, Palo Alto Dermatology Institute providers have extensive experience in assessing your skin type and skincare needs to ensure that the Fraxel Repair Laser is the right option for you.
Fraxel Repair Laser outcomes can be very dramatic after just one treatment. Although some immediate improvements may be visible after just a few weeks (after the skin has visibly healed from the treatment), full results will appear several months after treatment, when the healing is fully completed.1
During Fraxel Repair Laser treatment at California Skin Institute, your provider will use protective eyewear to keep your eyes safe and will administer a local anesthetic to reduce potential discomfort. In some cases, a intravenous or IV sedation may be used to ensure patient comfort.
The Fraxel Repair Laser treatment duration will vary based on the size of the area being treated. After treatment is complete, it’s vital that you stay out of the sun for at least one week hours, and may need to take 7-10 days away from work or social events.
During the first 48 hours after treatment, it is common for patients to notice oozing, crusting, and severe redness. Although the oozing and crusting should subside within a few days, the redness and swelling can last for 7 to 10 days, depending on the patient. After a few weeks, a light pink color of the skin will fade over 4 to 6 weeks. To ensure faster healing, your Palo Alto Dermatology Institute provider will advise you on the best after-care practices during your consultation.
To schedule your Fraxel Repair Laser consultation, contact Palo Alto Dermatology Institute and request a consultation!
References: 1. Current Laser Resurfacing Technologies: A Review that Delves Beneath the Surface. Jason Preissig, B.A., Kristy Hamilton, B.A., and Ramsey Markus, M.D. 2012
Disclaimer
Treatment results will vary, talk to a practitioner to see if this treatment or procedure is right for you.
Conditions treated by Fraxel Repair CO2 on the face, neck, trunk and extremities
- Acne Scars
- Age and Brown Spots
- Aging Face and Neck
- Scars and Injuries
- Skin Laxity
- Sun Damage
- Wrinkles
