Fraxel re:pair® Laser Treatment
Fraxel re:pair® is revolution in skin rejuvenation. Not only can Fraxel re:pair® correct wrinkles and sun damage while tightening slack skin, but it even prevents loose skin from forming. And it does it all in a single treatment without risk or surgery.Q: What does Fraxel re:pair® treat?
A: With this treatment, SkinSmart patients can expect:
- Dramatic results in a single treatment
- Smoother, more even skin tone & texture
- Reduction in “age-spots” (also called sun freckles)
- Softening of deep frown lines and wrinkles
- Improved appearance of redness caused by sun damage
- Reduction of deeper wrinkles
- Longer downtime
A: If your concerns include sun damage, age spots, deeper wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, irregular pigmentation, melasma (a patchy, tan discoloration of the face associated with pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives), or irregular texture, Fraxel re:pair® may be right for you.
This treatment is not appropriate for you if you are pregnant, have been on Acutance within 1 year, have a history of keloid scarring or have an active cold sore.
This laser is a more intense treatment than other lasers and may require up to 2 weeks of downtime. A consultation is required to see if you are a candidate.
Q: What FDA clearances has Fraxel re:pair treatment received?
A: Fraxel re:pair® laser has received FDA clearance for many indications on and off the face, including:
- Wrinkles
- Irregular texture
- Age spots/sunspots (pigmented lesions)
- Sun-induced redness (vascular dyschromia)
Q: How is Fraxel re:pair® different than other laser resurfacing procedures?
A: Like some other ablative procedures, Fraxel re:pair® laser treatment uses a high-intensity carbon dioxide (CO2) laser manufactured by Reliant to vaporize unwanted tissue. But unlike other ablative procedures, Fraxel re:pair® is a “fractional” resurfacing treatment. Rather than removing the entire surface of your skin, Fraxel re:pair® sends thousands of microscopic laser columns to penetrate deep into the skin and remove old, damaged skin cells.
Q: How does it work?
A: The laser energy stimulates your body’s own natural healing process, which replaces old, damaged skin cells with fresh, glowing, healthy skin.
Q: How many treatments will I need and how quickly will I see results?
A: Clinical studies suggest that for most people, maximum results are realized in just one treatment. The Fraxel re:pair® treatment was specifically engineered to enable Dr. Callahan to tailor the treatment to your particular needs. If you have deep, severe sun damage, we may treat the skin more aggressively, which can mean a week of downtime. No matter what your situation is, Fraxel re:pair® treatment can produce remarkable results without the prolonged recovery time and complications of other non-fractional procedures.
Q: How is Fraxel re:pair® treatment performed and does the treatment hurt?
A: First, your skin will be cleansed. Then, 60 to 90 minutes prior to treatment, a topical numbing agent will be applied to the treatment area. Dr. Callahan may also choose to give you another medication, such as Ativan, to relax you. Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment, and there may be some discomfort or pain. However, unlike the experience in traditional CO2 treatments, you will feel quite comfortable immediately after a Fraxel re:pair® treatment.
Q: Can the treatment be modified to be more or less aggressive?
A: Yes! Dr. Callahan can customize treatment specifically to the patient and even modify treatment during the procedure for various skin challenges or problem areas.
Q: How long does the treatment take?
A: With this new technique, the entire face can be treated in approximately 30-40 minutes
Q: What can I expect after treatment and what are the risks?
A: Depending upon the aggressiveness of your treatment, there might be some pinpoint bleeding following the procedure, as well as some oozing for up to 48 hours until the wounds close. The most common side effects are swelling, which usually subsides after a week, and redness. The skin will appear very pink and possibly tan for one to seven days. You might also get some flaking or peeling, which can be camouflaged with moisturizer. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, oozing and crusting. You should not experience any pain.
Occasionally, superficial blisters and scabs can occur, which heal within 2 to 14 days. Applying an antibiotic ointment daily helps speed healing and prevents infection. There is a very slightly (less than 0.5%) possibility of a skin wound leaving behind a permanent scar.
Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking, oozing and crusting. There is a risk of, and there have been reported cases of, delayed wound healing, infection, pigment changes (hyperpigmentation) or scarring.
Q: When will I see results?
A: Results are immediate and progressive. New skin develops immediately, within 24 hours of treatment. Soon after the procedure, the surface of your skin will feel softer, look brighter and show more even tone. The next three to six months will bring more improvement as the body repairs the deeper dermal tissues that have been affected by the treatment, producing longer beneficial changes associated with a healthy, youthful appearance.
Q: Will I need any kind of aftercare?
A: During the healing period, your skin will be especially sun sensitive. Sun exposure will increase your risk of hyper- and hypo-pigmentation so it is imperative that you avoid sun exposure for a full week after treatment and use a daily sunscreen with SPF 30 and zinc oxide for six months thereafter. Try to stay indoors whenever possible, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and keep your skin well moisturized. Do not smoke, as smoking will impair the healing process. Obviously, you should not use a tanning booth either before or after treatment.
