Fraxel™ Laser Skin Resurfacing

What Is Fraxel™ Laser Skin Resurfacing?

The Fraxel™ Restore laser is one of the newest laser treatment modes available today. This innovative approach is specially designed to alter only fractional volumes of the target tissue. The clinical effect of this treatment technique is to alter the appearance of aging and sun-damaged skin by forming new collagen fibers. The face, neck, chest and hands can all be treated with Fraxel™ fractional resurfacing. Other lasers producing similar results include the StarLux™ laser.

How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?

Lasers work by emitting a specialized light that is passed through the skin and preferentially absorbed by the water in the damaged collagen beneath the surface of the skin. This action allows the laser light to remove very fine layers of skin, diminishing the look of wrinkles and other unwanted textures. The older, wrinkled collagen in the skin is remodeled into newer skin. As new cells form in the healing process, the skin is smoother and softer.

Click here for the Fraxel™ Resurfacing Before & After Gallery

Why Choose Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Fraxel™ laser skin resurfacing is a non-invasive procedure that can remove wrinkles, even-out skin tone and instigate the growth of new collagen. The procedure provides consistent results, allows the surgeon precise control and requires less recovery time than invasive surgical approaches.

What Are The Differences In The Lasers Available?

Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists of New York & New Jersey offers a wide variety of lasers for laser skin resurfacing. Each type of laser is suited for particular treatment modes.

The fractionated CO2 lasers are different than the Fraxel Restore laser. These fractionated CO2 lasers include the Fraxel Repair, Active FX and Deep FX lasers. We also use similar Erbium lasers that go by the names ProFractional and Pearl. These lasers are more for some deep lines and wrinkles, as well as for full-face laser procedures.

We also offer multi-mode laser resurfacing which uses a combination of lasers to customize the procedure for individual needs.

Your Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists physician will determine which type of laser will yield the best results for your treatment.

How Long Will It Take To Heal?

Recovery after standard laser resurfacing takes anywhere from less than a week for lighter resurfacing procedures to a bit more than a week for deeper procedures. You will be asked to keep the area moist. The initial redness after the procedure will fade over a period of time; however camouflage makeup may be used to cover the redness. There is no down time after Fraxel™ Restore resurfacing.

Is The Procedure Painful?

During the Fraxel™ procedure you will be given either a topical or local anesthetic; sedation is not necessary. After the procedure, most patients describe the discomfort as similar to a mild sunburn which subsides quickly.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Clinical studies suggest that 3-7 Fraxel™ Restore laser treatments, spaced at 1-4 week intervals, produce a gradual remodeling of mild wrinkled sun-damaged skin.

What Are The Side Effects?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with laser skin resurfacing. Your physician will review with you in detail any risks involved in the procedure.

How Do I Get Started?

The first step in discovering if the Fraxel treatment is right for you, is scheduling a consultation with a physician. Your skin will be thoroughly evaluated and a treatment plan will be prescribed. To schedule a private consultation, call one of our offices or submit an appointment request online.