|
Laser resurfacing was initially made possible in the mid-1990’s when the ability to precisely control CO2 laser beams was developed. This led to a revolution in the treatment of
aging skin and acne scarring. Traditional CO2 laser resurfacing remains today a time-honored, effective treatment. However, prolonged down time and loss of some pigment in up to 20% of
patients led to attempts to find new technologies. A number of devices followed that offered minimal improvement. Then came fractional CO2 laser treatments, which provide remarkable
results with less down time and an excellent safety profile. Unlike traditional CO2 laser treatments, which are limited to the face only, fractional laser treatments can be performed on
the neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.
A fractional beam is one that impacts the skin over a pinpoint area, leaving normal skin around the impact site to facilitate rapid healing. The UltraPulse Encore laser uses two types of
fractionated beams. ActiveFX is a broader beam with a shallow impact. DeepFX is a narrower, deeper beam reserved for areas needing a more aggressive approach, such as deeper wrinkles and
areas of excessive laxity. When both beams are used sequentially during the same treatment session, the term TotalFX is used.
Prior to treatment, Dr. Ramsdell must be informed about all medical conditions and medications. Of particular importance is a history of prior facial plastic surgery (especially eyelid
surgery, or blepharoplasty), radiation treatment to the face (even as a child), and use of Accutane. Also inform us if you have a history of recurrent bacterial infections or cold sores.
Dr. Ramsdell will prescribe an antibiotic to prevent bacterial infections and an antiviral (Valtrex) to prevent cold sores. These medications should be taken one day before the procedure
and continued for ten days.
We perform fractional laser treatments in our office operating suites under topical anesthesia, sometimes with nerve blocks or oral sedation. You will feel a slight but tolerable stinging
sensation during treatment. Following the procedure, Vaseline or Aquaphor will be placed on the treated areas, and you will be ready to leave the office.
Your skin will be red and swollen after treatment and may feel like a bad sunburn. Some pinpoint bleeding may be present if DeepFX is performed. Post-operative care is
simple—just cool soaks and Vaseline or Aquaphor applied to keep the skin moist (please see our post-operative handout.) Do not put any topical agents on your skin other than
Vaseline or Aquaphor without consulting our office first.
Down time for the face usually is four to seven days and can be adjusted to fit your schedule. As the swelling subsides, you may notice wrinkles reappearing. This is normal. Many of these wrinkles will disappear completely or improve dramatically as new collagen forms. Optimal improvement may take six months or longer. Some patients require more than one treatment.
- Begin oral medications one day before the procedure.
- Apply LMX cream to the treatment area prior to the appointment as instructed by Dr. Ramsdell.
- Prepare for a more comfortable recovery by stocking home care supplies in advance.
- The day of the procedure:
- Shampoo hair, but do not use hair spray
- Wash face with soap and water
- Do not wear makeup
- Take all usual medications
- Eat usual meals
- Wear a button-up shirt
- Bring an elastic headband
- Do not wear jewelry
- Arrange for someone to drive you home
- Pain — This is usually minimal and controllable with Extra Strength Tylenol or Motrin.
- Infection
- Scarring — This is very rare but has been reported.
- Changes in skin pigmentation — Temporary darkening of the skin is possible, particularly in dark-skinned individuals. This almost always fades away completely. Permanent
lightening of skin color, reported in up to 20% of traditional CO2 laser patients, has not been reported with fractional laser treatments. Please use a broad spectrum sunscreen for
three months following surgery.
- Redness of the skin
|
