Fractional Skin Resurfacing
Fractional Laser for Resurfacing and Scar Revision / Repigmentation
Palomar 1540 Laser
Photo courtesy of Dwight Scarborough, MD
with permission of Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc
Treatment - Fractional Resurfacing Multiple Sessions
Individual results may vary
The first fractional laser was brought into market over half a dozen years ago under the trade name FraxelTM. Fractional laser technology quickly has become popular with doctors and patients who are seeking a way to get results similar to that of a resurfacing ablative laser (like the Carbon Dioxide laser) without the downtime, pain or risks.
Fractional laser is an alternative, and although cannot duplicate full surface laser results, can provide appreciable improvements with little to no recovery time. In the simplest terms, fractional resurfacing is a system in which microscopic laser beams are introduced into the skin in a specific pattern. Treated skin area per session is typically about 20%. This leaves whole skin around each tiny beam so there is no unpleasant wound healing, no oozing or blistering. Discomfort is minimal and minimized with a topical numbing cream.
Because Fractional Laser is much less invasive, the full treatment effect requires several sessions, with acne scars requiring 4 to 6 session. Post procedure side effects are similar to those you'd feel from a moderate sunburn with some minor "dust-like" exfoliation after a few days.
Dr. Fitzgerald has selected the StarLux Laser system by Palomar Medical. The company is an innovator in light-based cosmetic technology with extensive ongoing research.
What is Fractional Laser Used For?
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Vertical Lip Lines (usually in conjunction with filler and/or Botox)
- Acne Scarring
- Surgical and Accident Scars
- Pigmentation Blending
- Melasma Reduction
- Skin Quality Improvement
Where is Fractional Skin Resurfacing Laser Used?
Skin resurfacing to reverse sun damage. Small scars, acne scars and hypopigmented scars (scars which have lost color and look white) are treated with the 1540 fractional laser.
**If you have darker skin tones - For overall facial laser with the least risk of hyperpigmentation for those with genetic predispositon to hyperpigmentation, we recommend the eMatrix fractional RF energy system. In our experience we find it is a preferred alternative for skin types which can express excess pigmentation activity following laser-type treatments. A consultation to discuss your concerns and a determination of skin type helps us select the right treatment choice.
Your Treatment Experience
Treatments with the StarLux 1540 Laser begins with topical numbing cream. (If you are only having treatment on a small area, numbing cream is usually not required.) Once the cream has taken effect, you will have protective goggles placed over your eyes. The sensation can be compared to what you might feel if you were to flick your fingernails against your skin along with a feeling of heat.
The laser handpiece is held against the skin, the microscopic beams penetrate the skin, the handpiece is lifted and move to the next section of skin and the process is repeated. The procedure is very quick, surprising most people with the absence of expected discomfort.
Treatments are performed by our Laser-Trained Physician Assistant Julie Gray and Registered Nurse Angela Sarff.
Other Recommended Procedures
Fractional Resurfacing with eMatrix using Radio Frequency - An any-skin-color resurfacing system for scarring, sun damage and fine wrinkling is established.
eMatrix Sublative Resurfacing
SilkPeel is a new, breakthrough procedure that combines precision exfoliation with Dermalinfusion to address patient-specific skin conditions. SilkPeel exfoliates the skin while simultaneously delivering a topical dermaceutical at a controlled intensity.
Learn More...
Vbeam - Many acne sufferers tend to have long term residual redness Although they may not develop actual scars such as the typical hypertophic scars, the redness still calls attention to the fact they had or have acne. One way to provide a quicker resolution for post breakout redness is to treat the specific spots with a vascular laser.
Vbeam Vascular Laser for Post Acne Red Spots...
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a special treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan activated with the correct wavelength of light. This is also known as "ALA or PDT treatment" or Levulan photofacial.
Learn More...
Chemical skin peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face, neck, chest and hands to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes and pre-cancerous growths to produce healthy, glowing skin.
Learn More...
