Facial Laser Resurfacing can be used as an alternative to chemical peel and dermabrasion. The benefits of using this technique are that it can produce less pain and a faster recovery time. In most cases, it is less costly. Our office has been using the CO2 laser for ten years; it is a well-accepted treatment modality for facial rejuvenation, predictably improving the appearance of photo induced wrinkles and areas of pigmentation. However, the CO2 laser involves complete epidermal ablation, has an extended postoperative recovery period and is limited to certain skin types.

For most resurfacing cases, we recommend the fractional erbium-doped laser. We have the Fraxel Re-store laser in our office. The Fraxel is computerized. It creates a highly effective, safe and predictable skin resurfacing treatment with minimal downtime. Patients are allowed to apply make-up the next day and proceed with everyday functions. The Fraxel laser treats all skin types. It treats sun damaged skin, reduces wrinkles, treats sun spots, aging spots, and melasma; the Fraxel also treats acne and surgical scars, and provides your skin with a balanced tone. The benefits with Fraxel are: resurfacing with minimal downtime, acceptable pain levels with topical anesthesia and air cooling ( local anesthesia and IV sedation are also available), minimal risks for hyperpigmentation, 20-25 minutes treatment time for a full face, and excellent, predictable results.

Before Surgery

To better understand your overall health and facial cosmetic wishes, we will evaluate your medical history and examine you prior to surgery. The areas that you are concerned with will be reviewed and digital photographs will be taken. All issues and concerns will be discussed.

Pre Fraxel Treatment Instruction

1. Two weeks prior to procedure start using a moisturizer and sunscreen with SPF 30 or above. Sunscreen should be used daily during the entire treatment period and there-after.
2. One to two weeks prior to procedure stop using retinoid products
3. One week prior to procedure stop using glycolic products.
4. If you are prone to Herpes outbreaks, start anti-viral medication (Valtrex) one day before procedure.
5. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.  Please contact us prior to starting any new medication (oral or topical)
6. Patients undergoing Accutane treatment should be off Accutane for six months prior to Fraxel treatments
7. If your skin type is at risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, the doctors may prescribe a bleaching skin care treatment for you to start four weeks prior to your laser procedure.

Post Fraxel Laser Treatment Instruction

1. You may notice some redness, swelling, and pinpoint bleeding on the treatment areas. These are normal skin responses that correspond to the level of treatment you request. These skin responses usually go away in 2-3 days. You can apply a cold compress or utilize the hydration mask we provide.
2. Skin on the treatment area may also feel warm to touch for a few days after the treatment.
3. Peeling, scaling may occur 2-5 days after treatment. On occasion, small fluid-filled lesions appear under the lower lip or the side of the nose. These lesions are called milia and generally resolve within a few days with the use of a mild cleanser.
4. Avoid exposure to sunlight. Use a hat and other protective wear over treated area. It is always very important that you use sunscreen to prevent sun damage to the skin. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or above should be used daily during the entire treatment period and 3 months there after.
5. In addition to sunscreen, you should also use moisturizer once or twice daily on the treatment area. For a recommended moisturizer, feel free to ask our esthetician.
6. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. Please contact us prior to starting any new medication (oral or topical).
7. If you notice any blisters, bruises, active bleeding, cuts on the treatment area, pigment changes (lighter or darker than your usual color), or any other problems, please contact us as soon as possible.