Of all the laser treatments available, Fraxel is one of the newest. In fact, a new kind of Fraxel, the Dual Laser System, has only just been cleared by the FDA in June of 2013.
According to the manufacturer, the new Fraxel system is part of a continuing push to achieve better results with less downtime by using two wavelengths of light at the same time. The Fraxel treatment is similar to many laser resurfacing procedures, but clients report a high impact change for very little downtime.
There are a few caveats, and things to remember. The first is that laser treatments work with the body, and as such some effects will take awhile to become visible. For example, collagen production is stimulated during the resurfacing process, which is a natural way to encourage the skin to rejuvenate itself. Given that the lasers work below the skin’s surface, however, the actual result of the collagen production won’t be immediately apparent. This should not be mistaken for the procedure not having worked at all!
Some complain that the skin appears worse after treatment. However, this depends on the level of treatment. The procedure can be carried out at varying intensities, and under higher intensities a light sunburn sensation may occur. Alleviating this, and preventing skin damage, requires a specific treatment after-care plan which will be discussed with the surgeon, and needs to be followed to get the best results.
While the cost of Fraxel treatments is higher than some other resurfacing options, the results are generally much wider-ranging and more immediate. For example, Fraxel can be used for skin scarring, pigmentation and sun damage, as well as removal of fine lines and wrinkles.
In the hands of an expert, the results can be extremely effective, as long as the patient understands that multiple sessions may be required and that some of the more obvious results might take time to fully appear.
To learn more about facelifts, revision and plastic surgery, and non-invasive procedures such as fillers, please contact the Naderi Center at 703-481-0002 in Virginia or 301-222-2020 in Maryland for a consultation today.