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Fractional Laser Resurfacing

Many people start to see the first signs of aging at an early age: in their late twenties or early thirties.

While it might seem like you are too young to consider cosmetic treatments, starting minimally-invasive anti-aging regimes early on can help slow down the aging process and keep you looking younger longer.

Some minimally invasive treatments, like fractional laser resurfacing, provide anti-aging results, without the long amounts of time devoted to recovery, as with ablative laser surgery. So what is fractional laser resurfacing, and how does it compare to more aggressive ablative laser treatments, such as carbon dioxide lasers?

Non-Ablative Laser Rejuvenation

Instead of destroying the dull and damaged outer layers of skin, fractional laser rejuvenation involves the use of a gentler laser that penetrates beneath the top layers of skin to heat the tissues below. This initiates the body's natural processes, producing collagen (the essential connective protein that gives the skin structure and youth) and other anti-aging compounds. As the treatment is gentle, there is much less recovery involved than with traditional ablative lasers, and the skin should not peel. These treatments are usually repeated several times, at three to six-week intervals, to produce the best results. Fractional laser resurfacing can treat problems such as:

  • Poor skin tone
  • Sun damage
  • Uneven pigmentation
  • Minor wrinkles
  • Large pores

Palomar Starlux 500®

There are many different non-ablative laser models on the market. At the Emory Aesthetic Center, we use the Palomar Starlux 500® laser, as we believe this is one of the best options we can offer our patients for non-ablative fractional laser treatments.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing Consultation

If you would like to learn more about cosmetic skin treatments like fractional laser resurfacing, then your first step will be scheduling a consultation with one of the Emory Aesthetic Center's cosmetic surgeons or licensed aestheticians. As everyone's skin and rate of aging are different, you will need a professional evaluation to determine which procedure (or procedures) will be most helpful in reaching your goals.

During your consultation, you will get a chance to get to know our doctors and aestheticians and learn more about the procedures we offer, including fractional laser resurfacing. Our team will carefully evaluate your skin and recommend the procedures that can achieve the desired results. You will get a chance to ask questions about fractional laser resurfacing, and we encourage you to use to this time to start planning a course of treatment with one of our surgeons.

*Spa Services are not covered by insurance.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing Candidates

While fractional laser resurfacing is a low-risk treatment that is safe for most potential patients, it may not be the right option for you. During your consultation, our experts will assess your candidacy for the procedure. They can help you determine if the treatment will be safe for you, and if so, can create a personalized treatment plan.

Good candidates for non-ablative laser treatments are adult men and women looking to refresh and rejuvenate the skin with minimally invasive treatment. Fractional laser treatments are not optimal for patients with significant facial aging, as the results will not be as dramatic as most patients with deep wrinkles and sagging skin normally desire. However, even if fractional laser treatments are not right for you, our cosmetic surgeons and aestheticians will work with you to find the right solutions for your needs.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing Procedure

The treatment area will be cooled before treatment, but for additional comfort, a numbing agent will also be applied one hour prior to the procedure. The aesthetician will use a special handpiece to direct the concentrated laser light at the skin. The laser targets the epidermis and dermis, which leaves healthy tissues intact and minimizes downtime. Once the area or areas have been treated, the patient can usually head immediately home.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing Recovery

Fractional laser resurfacing is a gentle procedure, with very little downtime. Some patients prefer to take it easy for 24-48 hours, but side effects should be mild. When they occur, they can include redness, swelling, and tightness. This will subside in the days following treatment, and you should be looking normal in about five days. Many patients opt for a series of treatments for optimal results, which are scheduled at three to six-week intervals. The skin will gradually improve in the weeks following each treatment.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing FAQs
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