Fractional Skin Resurfacing
Fractional skin resurfacing is a unique, noninvasive laser therapy designed to dramatically improve skin texture and pigmentation, allowing patients to once again enjoy fresh, healthy and youthful-looking skin. Fractional technology penetrates deep within the skin to produce maximum rejuvenation results, while promoting fast healing and stimulating the production of new, firm tissue to smooth out imperfections.
Fractional skin resurfacing can be used to effectively:
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Shrink pore size
- Smooth wrinkles around the eyes
- Smooth acne scars
- Rejuvenate the neck, chest and hands
These treatments take only a few minutes to perform with only minor discomfort and little to no downtime. It can be used to treat most areas of the body, although it is often used for prominent areas such as the face, chest, arms and hands. Your doctor will develop a customized treatment plan for each individual patient based on the condition of their skin, overall health and goals for treatment.
How Fractional Technology Works
Unlike other forms of laser treatment, fractional technology targets only a small fraction of the skin at any given time. Treatment is delivered through a series of narrow but deep microscopic laser spots to reach the innermost layers of skin and stimulate collagen growth, while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected.
The healthy cells in the untouched spots help promote rapid healing of the entire area, allowing patients to benefit from faster recovery and minimal side effects. Combining the effectiveness of traditional ablative lasers with the rapid healing of non-ablative lasers, fractional resurfacing is an ideal treatment option for many patients.
Fractional Skin Resurfacing Procedure
The fractional skin resurfacing procedure is performed in Dr. Felderman’s office using only a topical anesthetic. The area to be treated is thoroughly cleaned, before the laser device is positioned to deliver heat energy to the targeted location. The narrow laser beams penetrate only certain areas of the skin to minimize damage. Treatment time depends on the location and size of the treated area, but is usually less than an hour. Most patients are able to tolerate treatment well.
Recovery and Results of Fractional Skin Resurfacing
After the resurfacing procedure, patients may experience redness, warmth and swelling in the treated area, although these side effects usually only last for a few hours. The skin may have a pinkish hue similar to the appearance of a sunburn for up to a week after treatment, at which point results gradually begin to appear. Some flaking of the skin may also occur, which can be managed through regular moisturizer use.
Most patients can return to work and other regular activities right away, as the fractional technology used during this treatment leaves most of the skin unharmed and able to heal rapidly. The results of fractional skin resurfacing develop quickly, as patients begin to notice a more even skin tone and smoother texture. After a series of treatment sessions spaced three to six weeks apart, patients are often able to achieve their desired results, which can be maintained through proper skin care, a healthy lifestyle and regular maintenance treatments.
Safety of Fractional Skin Resurfacing
Fractional skin resurfacing is considered a safe procedure for most patients with a low risk threshold and high success rates. Dr. Felderman will determine whether or not this procedure is right for you after a thorough evaluation of your individual skin condition.
It is important for patients to protect their skin from excessive sun exposure for at least three months after treatment, as this can hinder the results of the procedure. Dr. Felderman will provide you with specific instructions as to the risks and postoperative instructions for fractional skin resurfacing.
To learn more about Fractional Skin Resurfacing performed at Felderman Dermatology, please call us today to schedule an appointment.
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