I am in need of real advice from real people who either have performed Active Fx or who have been on the receiving end. I am considering undergoing this procedure in the office of a well-respected dermatologist.
I am concerned, however, because what I am reading on these boards is not what I am being told by the office. First, the office claims that other than the 2 photos on its website, it does not have any before and after pics to show me. Given how many procedures they claimed to have performed, I find this odd. I also find it odd since the doctor said she had the treatment herself, but I could not see her own photos.
Second, I am concerned because I'm being told: I do not need any pain relief other than a pre-procedure numbing gel for 30 minutes; that the laser does not hurt; that swelling (if there is any, for many don't swell) will subside within 48 hours; that any redness and peeling will be gone within 5-7 days; that I don't need to do any speciial prep in the week or two before the procedure. I was not asked about cold sores. (I don't get them, but my husband does, so I sure carry whatever it is that causes folks to break out.) I was told I could drive myself home afterwards.
Third, I was told that any negative reviews were regarding the Active Fx ful CO2 laser. They say they don't use the full CO2 Active Fx laser, but the Active Fx fractional laser. I'm confused b/c I thought the whole selling point of the Active Fx is its fractional (80%) nature. What are they talking about? I am scheduled to have this procedure, which isn't cheap to say the least ($3,000).
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
3/24/08
I have many of same q's about activefx. Also is it same as deepfx?
3/27/08
You raise some great questions. I'll try to answer them as part of this thread.
Active FX is always fractional. However, the settings can be increased to the point that it is no longer fractional. The Ultrapulse Encore CO2 laser (foundational device for all of these treatments) was used non-fractionally, prior to the software and hardware upgrades. However, this was not Active FX. Max FX was an older, much more aggressive, treatment that used overlapping beams of light making it "non-fractional" employing the same laser device.
It is very important to have excellent before and after photos from the practice you choose. It is NOT a good idea to have a procedure performed until you see their OWN photos. They may be great. . .but one never knows. Photographs rarely lie and are simple to obtain. We use the Canfield Visia Complexion Analysis device plus high quality digital images before and after all of our cases.
I give all of my patients, with rare exception, an anxiety medicine because ActiveFX does hurt. It is quite hot but bearable. I also use a numbing cream for 30 minutes and/or a facial block. If it doesn't hurt, it's probably not strong enough to accomplish what we hope to achieve.
There are new handpieces with software upgrades that make these treatment choices confusing. The whole family of procedures is called Bridge Therapy. They consist of ActiveFX, PigmentFX, DeepFX and TotalFX.
ActiveFX uses a larger beam of light that does not penetrate as deep as DeepFX. This is great for targeting fine lines, some wrinkles, and dyschromia. This can be performed anywhere.
PigmentFX uses the ActiveFX handpiece but doesn't penetrate as deeply. It focuses on the dyschromia but does not do as much for wrinkles.
DeepFX uses a different handpiece and a software upgrade. It allows a smaller beam of light to penetrate much deeper (hence the name) than ActiveFX. It is great for targeting deeper lines and wrinkles. DeepFX can only be performed on the face and neck.
TotalFX combines two treatments. DeepFX is performed first. The handpieces are changed and ActiveFX immediately follows. This allows all of the problem areas to be targeted effectively. These results have been outstanding (I even have photos to prove it)!
3/30/08
I just had the active FX laser treatment done yesterday (3/28) I was pleasantly surprised that it was not as painful as I had heard it would be. I did take a valium about an hr. before & the Dr. gave me 2 Lortabs about 20 mins. before the procedure. He also applied some serious numbing cream. The combination of all that worked very well for me. Today I look sunburned w/ some swelling mainly around my eyes. I have some red and brownish dots on cheeks and chin. I'm keeping the ointment on my face and using ice packs frequently. I hope the end result will be worth it!
4/1/08
I had Deep Active FX five days ago. The redness is totally gone, however I do not see any change in my appearance. The deep lines are there, I seem swollen at the bottom of my face. Is this unusual? Am I being impatient? My Dr. told me I was. I cannot imagine that building up collagen in up to 6 mos. is going to make all these lines disappear. I would like to hear from others.
4/2/08
update: I had the deep and superficial active fx done on 3/28. Went for post laser check-up 4 days after on 4/1 and Dr. said everything looked very good even alittle ahead of schedule. Most of my face had already peeled. He said I wasn't using enough of the vaseline type stuff which might be why I was feeling very itchy. Also said if you stayed greased up all day and night the redness will go away sooner. When I got home I put alot more "grease" on! Today the redness is much less and I should be close to normal by tomorrow! It is still hard to say what my results will be. My cheeks do seem smoother, eye area less wrinkled but still pink, pores seem smaller.
4/4/08
Are the resuls of Active FX really that much better than the results of a Jessner's/35% TCA peel? I know the claim is that the results of Active FX can last up to two years versus a medium depth TCA peel, which one arguably needs to repeat every 12 months. But given the remarkable difference is pricing, the only real difference seems like an additional period of down time in the interim years if you do a peel.
I should note that I've been told I am an excellent peel candidate. I have very fair skin (brown hair (born with bright auburn hair) and green eyes) which freckles and burns in the sun; no tan. I am 35 with some freckles, mild smile lines where my dimples are, and crows feet which you don't really see except when I smile. (Yes, I know Botox helps with crows feet. I just got Botox last week, which went well except its 6 days later and I still have a nasty bruise at one injection site.) I have very mild "crepe" under the eye, as well as some slight under eye circles that I attribute to two children 4 and under.
I question whether any treatment, other than Botox, can really help with the dynamic wrinkles.
Your thoughts?
4/4/08
Hi,
I have a Deep FX treatment scheduled for May 16th. Honestly I am getting worried about the redness issue. I have had fotofacials to remove the redness in my face.
Did you end up going through with the process?
4/4/08
Hi Joanne,
I have deep FX scheduled for May 16th and I am concerned about the redness. I am fair skinned. So is my dermatologist and she still has some redness a month later.
How would you describe your skin tone? So I have read that the more grease you use on your face the quicker the redness goes away. Did you do that? I can't believe in 5 day it had improved so much.
I think they said that the firming happens over a period of months.
Vivian
4/11/08
Did you end up getting the treatment?
I have seen 6 of these procedures done so far, and this is my advice. Take anti-anxiety medication and pain medication BEFORE the procedure! Also, a very strong numbing agent 45 minutes before your procedure makes it much more tolerable. You want someone to be there to drive you home. You will be slightly sedated, and uncomfortable. You'll probably appreciate all the help you can get!
After your procedure... Ice, rest and ointment!!! Most patients have only reported discomfort for the first 2 days.
4/12/08
Hi all. I ended up backing out of the Active Fx. Although the doctor I was to see is part of one of the premier practices in the field of lasers (I've seen the doctor mentioned with high regards on other boards), I was put off by how unresponsive they were. From (a) not being able to see before and after photos (other than 2 on the website) to (b) not being able to see the photos of the doctor who was going to do my procedure (the doc had it done, too) to (c)not having my phone call returned by a nurse who had Active Fx done and said she'd tell me all about it....well, my gut just told me to hold off.
I did, however, go through with a Jessner's/20% TCA peel on Monday. It's technically the end of day 4 and I've peeled around my mouth and a little on my cheeks. I have a lot of peeling left to do and I am *really* praying the peeling is done by Tuesday when I go back to work. Most of all, I am hoping this BRIGHT PINK blotchy look will fade by then. I seriously look like a clown! It's pretty wild, though, to see my freckles peel away. It's hard to tell b/c the area under my eyes has not peeled yet, but it seems that my undereye circles have improved tremendously. That's huge for this tired mom of 2 boys under 4. Here's hoping some of that early stage cross-hatching is gone, too.
I will say this about peels and what people write on boards. A lot of folks write that it is best not to put ointment (like Aquaphor) on b/c it inhibits peeling. Heck with that! I tried not wearing Aquaphor this morning and OWWW did my face feel tight, sore to the touch and just awful. I called the nurse in my derm's office (a different doctor than the Active Fx dr) and she said to put that ointment on ASAP! My face hurt b/c it was dry. She was totally right. Lots of water and Aquaphor for me!
If anyone else out there has had a 20% TCA peel, I'd love to hear about your experience.
4/13/08
I am writing to tell you about my ActiveFx and DeepFx treatment I had yesterday. I am an RN as well as an esthetician. I have several years experience working with plastic and cosmetic surgeons in three states. I have comments from both sides, as a nurse and as a patient. I have personally tried Thermage, Fraxel, and now Activ/DeepFx. I have moderate sun damage and fine line around my eyes and mouth. I can already see the tightening around my eyes and mouth. As far as pain, I think all three of the treatments I have tried feel about the same. I did have a topical anesthetic applied every time prior to the treatment. With Thermage and ActivFx I also took Percocet and Valium an hour before the treatment. With Fraxel I just had Valium to relax. As for results, it is early to comment on the ActivFx, but already I see more improvement than ever before! With Thermage I saw nothing. I waited weeks for the collagen rebuilding and still nothing. Fraxel showed minimal improvement in skin tighening but left me with a stiped effect on my neck. On the second Fraxel I only had my face done and didn't see anything improve. I know I should have done more to get the full effect of Fraxel, but for the price, I elected to try ActiveFx. If I could do it all over again, I would definately go with Activ/DeepFx. Results are much better and the recovery is the same.
4/14/08
I had the active fx 7 days ago. I will be honest. I took pain med and they put numbing on my face but it hurt. I breathed through it because I wanted the doc. to take his time.
As of now I am still red as lobster and have to go back to work tomorrow. my eyes and face were swollen for the first 3 days, my face for 5. They say you can't see the results right away. That in six months is when you will look your best because that is when you have developed more collegen.
So, I really can't say if I am happy I did it. I had some wrinkles above my lip and a scar. Main resaon I had this procedure. But I did hear that the non-fractional laser is much better than the fractional laser. Fraction means just what it is. A fraction. Hope that helps. Still in limbo!
4/15/08
I have scheudled this procedure for May.
If you were not asked about cold sores your provider
is not giving you good care.
Those of us with cold sore issue need to take a n anti viral
medication before and after treatment.
the rest of your desciption is the same as I was told.
4/17/08
My ancestry is Irish, French and American Indian - I have brown hair with hazel eyes of dark olive green, amber and brown and my complexion is a medium pink-beige. I tan easily after minimal burning. I mentioned my ancestry to the doctor and the nurse many times before booking the Total FX procedure. They said it didn't matter. I hope this is true.
My Active FX was performed by the RN in the office on Mon, Apr 14th. She used Active FX on my neck and eyes and Deep FX on the rest of my face. I never saw the doctor that day.
This is Day four and I've peeled slightly - in a splotchy way. I'm seriously swollen with under eye bags (they feel like they are weights hanging under my eyes) and my neck is hanging swollen with fluid. Overall, I'm lobster red. The doctor prescribed medrol pack on Tuesday afternoon but it has only slightly reduced the swellings.
What else can I do to reduce these swellings?
Another question: The doctors office gave me two little tubes of Catrix and Aquaphor abt .25 oz each and told me to use Vaseline when I run out. I don't like the idea of putting Vaseline on my skin as I've heard it's not a clean petroleum product. What do you think of the use of Vaseline? Should I send my husband to the drugstore for Aquaphor instead?
I went in for this procedure looking good (people always think I'm about 10 years younger than my actual age of 47) but I had recently noticed a *few* fine lines and my complexion turning dingy. My skin was tight (only a small area of my neck under my chin was showing a slight looseness). Now I have this huge turkey neck filled with fluid and these huge bags under my eyes. Not to mention the redness. I'm worried about returning to work on Monday (one week after the procedure?)
Four years ago, I had a combo CO2 laser/chemical peel (under sedation) and I had no swelling, no pain, was completely peeled by the 4th day - my skin peeled in sheets of cocoa brown with bright white skin underneath. I didn't have any redness only a little pink at the corners of my nose. I can't believe how awful I look now, 4 days after the AFX. I thought the AFX is the CO2 but fractuated. Shouldn't I have had similar results?
4/19/08
I had this procedure two weeks ago and I do see a difference. My doctor told me that the process is working and I should see a very big difference in my skin. I thought the worse day was the day after the procedure. Eyes were swollen, skin red. I applied a petroleum type jelly that the doc gave me for a few days. I actually think I feel better and that I do look better. The cost was $1350. and believe me, that was alot for me. Go for it, you only live once.
4/19/08
Daissey - please consider posting your experience by Writing an Active FX Review. Other readers would love to hear about your results.
4/20/08
I had Active fx done 3 days ago. I have been MISERABLE ever since! I went in for Fraxel, then inquired about the flier in the office on Active fx while I was being numbed for Fraxel. They convinced me that they were not impressed with the results of Fraxel, even after 4 treatments. I have 2 young kids and I knew I wasn't going to do Fraxel 4 times, so I decided (with only researching for 10 min on my Blackberry) that I would do Active fx. They convinced me that it was less painful that Fraxel, less downtime and more than a 4x better result. I was sold. So I did it on my face, neck and chest.
I asked for a vicodin. The actual laser wasn't painful for me, it just felt hot. They didn't tell me about popping these peices over my eyeballs, under my eyelids, that they keep in the whole time. They also told me I could take my kids to Disneyland in 3 days, and here I am alone at home while my husband took my 2 and 4 year old.
Reality: 1st day, really swollen and totally greasy from the vaseline. I had little spots of blood all over my face. I was surprised by this. Couldn't sleep all night, totally started to burn like the worst sunburn times 10!
Next day: swollen and PURPLE. Did not eat one thing all day (1st time in my life) bc I was in so much pain. I felt like I was a serious burn victim. Could barely open my eyes. I definitely scared my kids, and did not want them to come near me bc I was in soooo much pain! My face felt like I had expected, but my neck and chest felt like I was getting 100 bee stings every minute. It was HORRIBLE!! The dr. told me to come in so he could look at it to make sure there was not infection, etc. No infection, he just said the laser might have gotten too hot. He gave me a prescription for 2 vicodins evey 4 hours, but they still didn't help! I fet loopy, but still sooo itchy and bee sting-like. I took a cold shower, and took off all ointment on my neck and chest. I called a random dr. office off the intenet who say they have performed over 2,500 active fxs and they said they would recomend putting a cold wet paper towel on it and continue doing that. It worked!! The itching stopped and I kept on the vicodin and wet towels all night.
Day 3: I seriously look like I was in a fire and lucky to get out alive. It is so horrifying to me that I actually did this to myself. I am peeling like a lizzard, but it still hurts really bad to touch it, even to wash it, which you are supposed to do 3 times a day. I can't move my head side to side or back and forth. My chest and neck are still purple, and I can't see that this will subside any time soon. Oh, best part is now I have little pimples from all the vasoline.
My dr. said results are "long lasting." Now I am reading they last a few years. This is a major deal, not "minimal" like they say. You can't exercise until your face is healed, and you clearly don't want to see a single person. My husband is so horrifed.
Here's my advice: if you plan ahead, get childcare for at least 4 days, have money to blow for something that only lasts a few years, and you don't have to see anyone (not because you're vein, but bc you are in so much pain), don't mind sitting at home for at least a week....then go for it! If you need to drive your kids around, if you don't have a supportive spouse, if botox will give you similar results, if you can't sit at home for a week...then don't do it. The recovery is painful and ugly. Hopefully when I check back next, I'll say they were great results. But I can't imagine any results being worth all this :(
4/22/08
I had the Deep & Active FX yesterday. I just read all the above reviews and felt compelled to write.
Yes, very painful but my doctor gave me the topical Lidocain for 1.5 hours prior plus shots of Lidocain in my gums and optionally my forehead (I didn't want needles there, wish I had though, as it was very painful there)
First, I think your doctors should not be suggesting direct petroleum jelly as a healing ointment. Many of us with acne scars got them because of clogged pores. A Non-comenogenic lubricant makes far more sense. My doctor GAVE me the following full-sized products: Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser,a topical antibiotic ointment called Biafine and another product with copper-peptide complex (wonderful healing complex for this procedure) called Complex Cu3 (none of which hurt or burn but instead were soothing.)
These are fabulous and highly recommended by me. Why? I have no pain at ALL today and seem to be healing much faster than the Portrait facial that I had a year ago. Please beg your doc for these. Dr. Hunt in Tampa has always had excellent patient care, staff and products. Everything I mentioned above was included and my cost was $2500. The people there are wonderfully knowledgable and the level of care is second to none.
My face is a bit swollen around the eyes but the rest is getting brown and ready to peel! I hope it starts soon but they gave me a realist timeline of each day and I must say again, the Biafine and Complex Cu3 have been a Godsend. I have no pain and haven't since this first morning after the procedure. I will try to post my results in a week or so but again, realistically, I will have my best results in the next 4-12 weeks.
After doing fraxel with minimal improvement and Portrait for about 20% improvement, I am hoping this further improves 20-30% but will have to wait to see!
As for the person who said their doctor performed Actives to 2500 patients...well, that seems hard to believe since it hasn't been available for much more than a year. That would mean about 250 working days a year 5 Actives a day EVERY working day....hmmm, be skeptical and research the doctor and the office.
Good Luck and will type soon!
L in St. Pete
4/25/08
I had it done yesterday. I was given a topical numbing cream and then after 40-50 minutes was given injections of ( I think) lidocaine in my gums etc.(that hurts too). In some places, like the eyes, the procedure was unbelievably painful, and other places, like the cheeks, it wasn't too bad. But, I had deep and active on the eyes (oh that active hurt after already having had the deep), and just active on the rest of my face.
Last night my face was quite swollen, painful, and tight, with some burning. Mostly the eyes were swollen. I wasn't able to sleep much last night, and when I looked in the mirror this morning I was horrified. My eyes are slits. My face especially under the eyes is swollen with fluid. My husband says it looks like I was in a fight then a fire. I called my doctor and I am being precribed steroid eye drops. I was told not to wash my face and keep it coated with aquaphor...on top of everything else I am worried about zits from that now too. I am on an antibiotic and a anti-imflammatory. I absolutely have to go to work Monday, I am praying this alleviates a little by then. I am hopeful for good results after all this.
5/1/08
Hi there:
I am very sorry about your experience as I can totaly relate. I went under treatment 4 days ago and as of now it does not look like i will be all better by the end of the week as they say. My pain is now gone since changing the oitment after the cleanser and I feel much better.
My biggest concern is all the small brown dots I have all over my face on top of being bright red. I am on my forth day and sitll not peeling.
Did you have dark brown spots all ove your face too? If so, how long did it take for them to go away? I have a meeting with a very important client next Wednesday and I am horrified these brown dots will not desaper by then.
I hope you are feeling better and I would greatly appreciate information on your recovery.
Thank you for your time!
5/13/08
I am planning on having an Active FX done in June. I have raed much about immediate results but what is everyone thinking weeks to months after the procedure?
5/14/08
Had Active FX done in March. With numbing cream I thought it was very tolerable. Afterwards I was scary looking but felt fine to be out in public by day 4. Now my skin looks good. The improvement is subtle, but lines around my eyes, mouth and pigment had definite improvement. Paid $1,350. I wouldn't want to pay more than that.
5/16/08
Dear Confused,
I was treated three weeks ago with the Active Fx Fractionalized laser and love it! I am a licensed esthetician for a plastic surgeon in Charlotte,NC and was a test subject in treating hyperpigmentation and sundamage on 35 yr old fair skin. The entire face and eyelids were treated. I took a mild sedative (half of the recommended dose, trying to be "tough") and a vicodin for pain 30 minutes prior. The numbing cream was also applied topically for 30 minutes, less than our standard 45. I would request the full 45 minutes to numb topically, and plan to have a driver so you can take the valium/pain meds. Go home and sleep on your back! Ibuprofen helped with the swelling, and have some frozen peas ready or cool compresses to soothe the heat. It looked rough for about 3 days, but I was back to work on day 4 with some brown areas and mild peeling. Deeper lines and wrinkles will of course take longer to heal. The only other advice I have is to keep it clean (wash 3 times a day with gentle cleanser), moist, and wear sunscreen! As far as before and after photos, the technology is still so new that most practices are building their portfolios. Our office charges 2800. Good luck!
-A
5/18/08
Does anyone know if Active FX works on broken capillaries? If not, would deep fx work? I've had countless treatments of IPLs and only notice about a 10% difference.
Thanks.
5/22/08
I got the fraxel 2 laser done about three weeks ago and it seems I may need three more treatments...mostly doing it for old cystic acne scars and fine lines...just have discovered this new active fx site and now I am wondering if this is what I really need..can it be done on the eye lids and just under the eye? How is the eye protected? DO you really get skin tightning?
5/22/08
I have not done this yet but am scheduled for mid June. I saw before and after pictures of acne scaring and the results were significant. They do do the eye area and put in protectors under the lid. The treatment is done only over areas where there is bone under the tissue, not the lids. There was only one office in town that had the fraxel when I was doing my research and the surgeon actually told me that the results from that technologh was unimpressive for what he was told it would do.
Good luck
5/27/08
I had Active fx done six days ago and today is the first day that I feel almost normal. My experience has been just as I had expected it would be but nothing can prepare you really.
Here is my Diary:
Day 1; okay... this hurts, not a lot but it hurts. It's over quick so that is my saving grace. Had the lidocaine, had the valium IV, face is pretty numb. Please take the drugs! My face is very swollen and red. I look like Mike Myers' character Fat Bastard from the Austin Powers movie! The stinging lasts about two hours tops. I take a Xanax and crash out sitting up for a looong time. Keep reapplying the goop, it helps.
24 hours later: My face is brown and still chubby cheeked but a little less. Back at the Dr.s today and the nurse shows me how to wash (with vinegar/distilled water) and reapply the Aquaphor. I am to do this 4 times a day. I use Barbasol to remove the goo, Aquaphor and Complex CU3 are then reapplied. By the end of the day the Brown mask is almost completely gone. This seems to peel off way faster then any Chemical peel Ive ever had and all old sun damage is gone! Keep in mind I am plumper so we'll see if my fine lines stay gone once the swelling subsides.
Day 3: My face is now like a pink newborn baby and still swollen and tender. I take benadryl to help with some itchiness and this seems to mellow me out as well. Cabin fever sets in so stock up on Tivo and dvd's!
Day 4: Not much is happening today except the swelling goes down a little each day not fast enough for me though. I am still quite pink and tender. the mornings seem to be the worst for me. swollen and pink.then it melllows out as the hours pass.
Day 5: Okay I am seriously bored and that along with still being swollen on one side are my chief complaints. I know I can cover the redness but I can't cover fat face! I continue with my routine 4 X's a day. The redness seems a little less. It's kind of off and on almost like I'm blushing, weird.
Day 6: I feel pretty good today. color is getting better and swelling is down,not gone but less noticeable. Back to the Dr. and he seemed pleased. I am now washing with a mild cleanser and can use a less greasy moisturizer now. I will stick with the greasy stuff a little longer because I feel dry w'out it. I'm okay to wear a mineral makeup too but I think I'll pass until I absolutely have to.
There you have it. I'll update as I recover completely.
Advice: 1)BE PATIENT. 2)Do the research. 3)numb out as much as possible the first 12-24 hours.
For me, every day gets a little bit better.
5/30/08
GDeborall.
Thank-you for sharing your diary that was quite useful. I would say you had a better recovery experience than what I had after each of the five Fraxel treatments I did a year and a half ago. I am scheduled to do SmartXide dot therapy in June 2008. Its a fractional CO2 laser like Active FX. I did not get any results from the Fraxel treatments and there was at least 10 days of downtime. It was day three to five before any flaking occured and remained swollen for about two weeks. The first three days were the worst. A week later at work everyone knew I had something done because I still had track marks on my face, blotchy patches and I was swollen enough to look like a different person. I remember telling a group of clients who were staring at me that I got sunburnt on the boat that week-end. One of the guys asked whether I had fallen asleep on blue j-clothe. We all laughed but it was awkward.
I hope you get the results you are looking for.
Allison
5/30/08
Hi Allison
Wow... I'd say after that experience you are brave to try again. I've never heard of the SmartXide. My advice would be to research this C02 thoroughly and compare it to other C02' 1st. Look at before/after pic's of your Dr.s' actual patients. Make sure this is the best out there for your skin type and issues. And be sure your Doctor knows about your previous fraxel nightmare. I'ts been 9 day's now and the swelling is all but gone and the redness is fading more each day, with makeup it's unnoticeable.
I hope your everything goes well and you also get great results. make sure to report back. This website has been a godsend to me.
Thanks
Gdeb
5/31/08
Yesterday I had the Active FX here in Houston. Before the procedure I had consulted with the doctor who would be performing the procedure. I had a list of questions and I feel as though he had thoroughly answered my concerns. The gals on the staff couldn't have been nicer. After I was taken to the room to be numbed they checked back with me to make sure I didn't need anything, adjusted the chair, brought me water,and tried to keep me as comfortable as possible. It was first class all the way. I opted not to use drugs, but I was prescribed two drugs to have with me in case I changed my mind. After close to two hours of having the numbing creme on and touched up several times we were ready to go. The first thing that scared me was seeing the stainless steel eye covers that went under you lids. I had been told about them, but then seeing them was a different story. Being a contact lens wearer for 43 years, I just couldn't imagine how having those in my eyes wouldn't hurt. The doctor applied them to my eyes, and remarked how easily they went in. I didn't feel a thing. Of course, I had numbing drops in my eyes. I also had received shots over my eyes on my forehead, over my lips, and down by my jaw. The lenses felt more comfortable than my own contacts! So far so good. Very slight pinching feeling with the shots, but I'm now convinced that I made a good decision not taking anxiety, or pain meds. The doctor informed me that he would be using the highest power and he thought I was going to have great results. My skin is decent for a 58 year old, but does have some brown spots, and bumps, and wrinkles. The doctor and I had a continuous conversation during the whole procedure which lasted about an hour. Most of the time I could not feel anything happening. When he did the area around my scalp and chin line I could feel a stinging. Apparently those are the most painful areas, because the shots don't protect that part of the face. At most, it was a mild stinging. After two passes with the laser we were done. The eye covers were painlessly removed, and the Aquafor was applied. Here is where I had some problems. I experienced an immediate burning in both eyes. The nurse tried washing them out with saline, but they kept burning and burning. I'm sure I had an allergice reacting to something that got in my eyes. After about 45 minutes my eyes felt okay enough to drive home. The doctor offered to call some cortisone drops in for my eyes. After using the drops my eyes stopped burning. During the rest of the day and night I would have varying heat sensations in different parts of my face which went from really burnt feelings to just a warm feeling. It was easy to cope with because my whole face never all hurt at once, and when it did occur, it was very temporary. I did look awful. Lots of redness and some browning. Since I was told I was going to get the highest power I was expecting to look worse than I did. My eyelids did swell by the end of last night, and the undereye was getting swollen. I was supposed to go home and rest all day and night, but I had so much energy I could not sleep. I watched tv, did laundry, and played some Scrabble. I took a sleeping pill and slept for 5 hours. Upon awakening I still looked pretty bad, mainly with swollen eyes and face, but the redness had mostly subsided and I was turning a nice shade of brown, although scaly. I was determined to get some sleep today, since being up at 5 and still feeling very energetic. After 3 games of Scrabble, I decided I would take a Lorazepam that was given to me for the procedure. This did knock me out for around 5 hours. Aside from washing with Cetaphil and recoating the Aquaphor there isn't much you have to do. Physically I feel fine, and for someone who usually has a high energy level, my biggest problem has been not knowing what to do with myself. I was told I needed to rest a lot the first three days inorder for the healing process to be at it's best. What I can see of my skin looks very promising. I can already see where I had some bumps and discoloration and it's gone. The one or two places that I have the most concern about still can't be determined if they are corrected, but the doctor mentioned if they weren't gone he could easily zap them with the laser again. I think I will be very pleased with the results, and I would not hesitate to do it all over again. As far as how presentable you are, I would not say from my experience that you would want to go back to work a few days from the procedure. You will be physically and mentally able to do that since this is a relatively get the pain over with quickly procedure, but as for myself I would feel very uncomfortable being back at work today, or as far as how I think I will look the next few days. I would have no problem working at home, and I almost need to have something to do here, since I'm not one to sleep a lot during the day. I will keep you all updated as to the next few days, and the results. Feel free to post any questions.
6/1/08
Today is day two if you don't count the day of the procedure. The redness is pretty much gone and today I'm mostly a nice shade of bronze with a lot of scaling and some white spotting where I think it must have already peeled of. That part is mainly around my scalp and face line, lips and eyebrows. Still haven't experienced any pain, and the most annoying thing is feeling so well and energetic, but being "stuck" in the house. It's very hot and humid here, so I don't want to go outside, even to sit in the shade. Tomorrow is my follow up appointment. I guess I will find out how I'm really progressing, and at least get some fresh air. I've decided this procedure is 80% mental and 20% physical. I understand from reading other reports that it can be painful, but I can't imagine the pain lasting very long. Hopefully, I'll get to be out in the real world pretty soon.
6/6/08
Today is day 6. The scabbing is all gone, but I've developed a hives like rash. I have a glycerin allergy, and the products have really irritated my skin. I went to the doctor today, and he prescribed a topical cream to use. Otherwise, I'm pretty much over it all. One or two of the brown spots faded, but are still there, and the doctor said he usually zaps over what didn't get done the first time, a few weeks after the healing process. Everyone at the doctor's office is so nice and helpful that it makes me feel sure that everything will turn out okay.
6/7/08
HI. Just Wondering if you think the active fx or the fraxel is better at treating acne scarring? I've heard a good 5-6 treatments would help out with the fraxel as compared to 1-3 with the active fx (deep fx). Which one would you recommend? Thank you.
6/7/08
Day 7 today. The rash has definitely improved with the cream. Today I wore makeup and I pretty much look normal. I think another day or two and it will all be cleared up. I go back to the doctor in two weeks. I'll let you know what he says then.
Regarding the question about treating scars. I had a small scar on my cheek from way back. I wasn't even thinking about that when I decided to do the Active FX. After reading your question I checked and that scar is totally gone. So, my opinion would be that the Active would work better than so many fraxels.
6/11/08
I wish I was able to post pictures of the first seven days after the procedure!!! I had numbing cream applied and took ES Tylenol. Hurt like hell. I had an excellent doctor that I trust. Day two I was somewhat swollen and very red. Third day my eyes were swollen shut and the pain was about a 9 on a 1-10 scale. There was much "crusting", especially under my chin. I was lucky in that I also work for a dermatologist and she called me in a prescription for Biafine, which is a cream used to treat first and second degree burns. What a difference that made! I also discovered that if I used Bactine (over the counter and I remember my mom using it for boo-boo's many moons ago)as an astringent, then applied the Biafine, it worked really well. Today is the 10th day post-laser and I don't see much improvement, although it does look like my lips are fuller. I am not wearing makeup, just sunscreen (have expermented with multiple brands- we have them at the office. I have found that Olay Complete Defense SPF 30 is the least greasy). Would I do it again? Doubt it.I'll see how it is in a couple of months then probably would have Botox and Restylane. The laser would have cost about $2000 but because this particular doctor was demo-ing it (in anticipation of buying)I had it done for free. Anyone who would like to see a couple of the pics I took, please let me know. But, I warn you in advance a couple of them are painful to look at. You can reach me at {you can be reached by private contact form reached by clicking on your username}
6/11/08
Binny - you can add your Active FX review and photos by writing a review. Click on write a review on the Active FX page. Thank you.
6/11/08
Day 12. I went back to the doctor yesterday because the hives like rash looked like it was getting worse. He said it looks like it may be a fungal infection and gave me a prescription. I took one last night and today I would say that I'm 50% better. I'm thinking that another day or two on the meds and I will be back to 100%. There are a few little things that will be zapped off in a few weeks. My skin is looking smooth and I am still glad I did this. Seems like my biggest problems were caused by my allergies and sensitivity to facial products. Next time I do this I will be more prepared as far as allergic reactions and what to use and not use. Without all of the allergy problems, I would say that I could have returned to my full schedule without having to wear makeup on day 7...with makeup day 5. I'll let you know how the meds are working in a day or two.
I've had several inquiries as to where I had the procedure done. I went to Dr. LeConey at the AntiAgeInstitute in Houston. The staff is unbelievably accomodating and caring.
6/11/08
Day 13.. Maybe I spoke too soon. There doesn't seem to be that much improvement from the meds. It seems like my skin always looks a lot better in the morning. After I'm up and moving around, the swelling and hives seem to get worse on one side. It's only been 24 hours since I started the meds. Maybe they haven't really kicked in yet. I'll keep you posted. Today I did start noticing that the more days that go by, the more it looks like sunspots and marks are returning. It's all very strange. So many changes everyday. I'll keep posting until it gets to where it's supposed to be and try and help anyone considering this procedure.
6/11/08
I did the review and included the pictures. Will probably submit another one in about a week- that will be the three week mark from the procedure. I am going to recommend my doctor read these reviews- I think they will be helpful. Thanks!
6/12/08
Thanks BinnyBin1...we promoted it to the homepage
6/12/08
Day 14.. Still looking swollen and rash like on one side. The other side has always had just a sign of the rash, but not nearly as much, and that side is much smoother. The bad side almost looks like some flaky, red, psoriasis type skin problem. The fungal meds don't seem to be making a difference. I have another appointment on Tues. The doctor says this is all normal and everyone heals at different paces, but I'm starting to think this is not how it's supposed to be.
6/12/08
You are very astutue to be skeptical. If they do NOT have before and after images of THEIR patients and are only using the manufacturer provided images, there's GOT to be a reason.
There is no such thing as "full CO2 Active Fx laser". I believe they may have been referring to traditinal CO2 resurfacing that fell from favor a few years ago due to the associated mobidity and less than predicable results.
the Active FX is NOT the top of the line CO2 fractionated procedure form LUmenis, the manufacturer of the device. They have already come out with the Deep FX because of the dissatisfied pateints from the Active FX.
BOTH procedures hurt and, if only a topical is used for paiin control, you can not expect to receive the reusults you are expecting.
I'd look elsewhere for a clinian with more "current" technology.
Good luck.
6/12/08
If you are referring to my posts, I did not just have a topical. I had 4 injections with the topical. My procedure hurt while the perimeter was being done, but that was just for a few minutes. The rest of my face was pretty numb for awhile after.
6/14/08
I am very fair skinned and my dermatologist used almost the highest level he could, especially around my mouth. Have you ever had problems with fever blisters? I have and was put on meds before and after for a week. Today is my 14th day and the swelling/redness is gone. I will tell you that the Biafine cream (prescribed by the dermatologist I work for) worked wonders. Both doctors have collaborated on my post-procedure, which has been a bonus. Ask your doctor about the Biafine. Let me know how it goes!
6/14/08
You are very lucky- I wasn't offered ANY drugs, other than the topical prior to procedure. Finally, 36 hours after the procedure I called my doc for something. Darvocet made a world of difference at that time. The Biafine cream really helped (started that same time I started the Darvocet). And the advantage to working for a dermatologist is being able to try all kinds of sunscreen and cleansers.
6/14/08
No injections here! And once they wiped off the topical (skin has to be dry, as you know) it wore off, quickly. But I will say that my metabolism really eccelerates with any medications (I have come out of general anesthesia multiple times before they were through!). I would definitely opt for stronger meds, if I were to have it done again.
6/17/08
ActiveFX is more predictable than a chemical peel. The results are much more consistent.
ActiveFX really helps the crepiness under eyes. It can also help decrease some of your dynamic wrinkles but they usually won't be eliminated since the muscles are not affected (I still use Botox for mine - nothing does the trick like Botox).
6/17/08
Your experience is not atypical.
I would have highly recommended using frozen peas on your eyes frequently to help keep the swelling down. I also use a higher dose of corticosteroids when needed (usually 60mg daily X 3-5 days).
With your heritage, I would have pre-treated your skin with 4% hydroquinone for 1-2 months before using the laser. I would have had you stop using it one week before the treatment then restart after you were healed.
I like applying Biafine and CU3 by Procyte during the healing phase. Both of these products are very effective in speeding up this process. I use Aquaphor if they run out and can't get in to the office for more CU3. I'm sure Catrix also works well. The most important thing is to keep it moist. Don't let it dry out!\
The turkey neck and bags under your eyes should go away. You will most likely be very pleased with your results in a few weeks.
6/17/08
It does take awhile for you to see the changes following DeepFX. Swelling is very normal.
Collagen does take time to build up. The laser has damaged the area. Your body is now mounting a healing response which takes time for us to see all of the great improvements.
My experience is that I see quicker improvements with the ActiveFX component and more delayed improvements with DeepFX. If you only had DeepFX, you do still need to be patient.
Are the "lines" from the laser treatment or the "lines" wrinkles? Laser "lines" should go away with a little time. All of the wrinkle "lines" may improve but may not be "gone".
I hope that helps. . .
6/17/08
ActiveFX is NOT for broken capillaries. Neither is DeepFX. You may actually find that these areas are stimulated and could end up with more redness. . .
You need to use a laser that focuses on hemoglobin. CO2 targets water.
You would do best with a 532KTP or 1064nm laser but other wavelengths may also work. You really need to be seen by someone with experience and the equipment to customize your treatments.
6/17/08
Day 18..One side is all healed with just a few little spots left. The other side is still looking red, swollen and like I have brownish/red tracks on my cheek and above my jaw. This is where most of the swelling is. I just returned from the docs and he said it is looking better??? He claims that the slowness in recovery is because there was an infection on that side and now that the infection doesn't seem to be there the healing process will move faster. He gave me a shot of cortisone, which hopefully will relieve the swelling, but I guess that also hinders the healing process. The disappointment is that just about all the imperfections, and brown spots have reappeared making think my skin has done a lot of healing, but now in addition to all of that I have this tracking, swelling and redness on one side. I will ask him about Biafine on my next visit in two weeks. Is it too late to try that?
Thanks,
6/17/08
UPDATE***
It has now been 4 weeks tomorrow and my skin looks and feels well...pretty. The redness is faint and I am using eucerin redness relief over my sunscreen I then add my mineral powder and viola. I couldn't have imagined this outcome. I feel like I have new skin. It's a little shiny though so I have to work with my sunscreens and powders to find the perfect blend. The redness took longer than I would have liked but I would definitely do this again. apparently this is not for everyone as the outcomes vary from person to person. I just wanted to share my positive outcome.
6/18/08
I would not think that the Biafine would be too late to try, especially if you are still having redness/swelling. From what I understand it encourages macrophages (think Pac Mans or as I like to think about them, "Oompa loompas"!)to rid the area of worn out cells and debris. Check www.biafine.orthoneutrogena.com for more information. And try a little Bactine as an astringent. Soothes, cools and helps with the pain.
I am not sure what the difference between Active FX and Fraxel Laser but there is a lot of mis-information out there concerning the pain.
I still have slight pinkness especially around my mouth and have found that when I get upset my face gets RED and fast. I did not have to have cortisone, thankfully. One of the woman who went through the procedure the same day I did have to go on prednisone for the swelling. I had mine done May 30.
6/18/08
You give me hope!! My dermatologist went to a seminar in CA and he said he learned that you generally get 30% improvement the first time then an additional 10% the second time. Think I'll just use a little Botox and Restylane for the 10%! I am not doing this, "growing old gracefully" without a fight!
6/18/08
Thanks Binny. I'm going out of town tomorrow for a few days, but I have another appointment when I get back. I will suggest that med to the doctor. I don't really have any pain at this point, actually I never did have pain after the second day, but I do have swelling and redness along with what I call the tracking marks. I do hope that fades quickly. Good luck with your recovery. 30% improvement meaning your skin only looks 30% better after the first Active FX treatment??? That's not very encouraging. If I would have known that statistic I never would have done it. I'm with you....none of this would be worth a second try with only a 10% chance of improvement. I do have to say my good side, does look pretty good, and is just about healed, other than still having the brown spots the skin just looks healthier. Since you work for a derm I'd love to send you some photos I've been taking to see how you would compare them to what you have seen. If you would be interested in seeing these, please let me know what address to send them to.
6/18/08
Alyson,
Can you email the name of your doctor. I live in Charlotte and am very interestd in this procedure.
Also do you have any updates on your results.
Thanks.
Mary
6/19/08
Hello, Confused, Did you have the ActiveFX that you wrote about here ? I would appreciate hearing from you; we have very similar "stories" to share.
LazerLee
6/19/08
What I had was fractionated c02 laser. Is that the same as ActiveFX?
6/20/08
Yes, Binnybib1, the Active FX and the Deep Fx are a type of Co2 laser. They are given to the skin surface in "bridge" form, so the entire skin is not lazered--- as in the older Co2 lasers. This promotes easier down time, and and the untreated skin is supposed to aid in the healing process. So, your not completely "raw".
There is more posting about this Co2 on this great discussion board. I did a lot of reading before I had this Active FX, but I didn't have this forum to shine light; I went straight to the LAZER, now I'm in the dark.
6/20/08
Today is week three post-op and I no longer feel the need to use the Biafine as my face has healed. I could not imagine having total face ablation! I'd like to see your photos if only to see how they compared to mine. I do send updates to the derm that did my procedure. He is in Maryland and I work for one in WV, however, she doesn't do any laser/cosmetic work. She is starting to see some improvement as far as skin tightening, especially my cheek area. I hope that it continues. I think it can take up to three months to see all of the results, but then again, I have heard different times. Anything you want to send you can send to ahtesr@yahoo.com. When you say "tracking marks" do you mean kind of like a grid pattern?
6/20/08
Have you noticed anymore improvement since you posted this in May?
6/29/08
I am very interested in doing both active and deep fx for acne scars. Can anyone tell me about their experience? How long was the down time and did it really smooth out the scars? I'm a little concerned after hearing some horror stories about burning and pain. Is it worth the pain and money? I am 41 years old and I have olive skin.
6/29/08
I would urge you to be very careful with the active and deep fx. A friend who has olive skin had her procedure the same day as I did and said that she looks like she has two black eyes and a permanant chocolate "mustache" around her entire mouth. She is just horrified and embarressed. Her doctor has recommended micro-dermabrasion to fix the problem. Her condiditon is called hyperpigmentation. Because I am fair-skinned I did not have this problem, even though the settings were higher than mine. I am 52 and she is about 15 years older so I don't know if this factors in. As for the pain- you know how someone will say something feels like a "bee-sting"? Think more like putting your face into a wasp nest and ticking them off! It was painful. I had no pre-op med(except for extra-strengh tylenol) so I would highly recommend taking something much stronger and continue on it for at least 24-36 hours. Use ice packs and try to get a prescription for Biafine cream. I don't know how much you are paying for the procedure- mine was done free as the doctor was demo-ing the laser (this requires a great deal of trust in your doctor). I will post a new picture soon!
6/29/08
I would not recommend Active X to anyone interested in removing scars, or just about anything else. I'm at week 4 and healed except for some darker looking horizontal marks from the laser. All facial imperfections that I had before the procedure have returned as the healing and swelling have taken place. I received many compliments on my skin before the procedure, and at this point I just want to get back to the point where I was without all these "laser" marks. I think the best results you get from this is the toning, tightness, and texture which supposedly take weeks or months to occur. I'll post again when and if that happens to me. For me the pain was very bearable with only the cream and shots. The down time is only a few days, but I still have to wear a lot of makeup to cover the red/brown lines. I've heard this procedure works best on people with lighter skin, so if you have olive skin you may want to use caution.
6/29/08
Maxine, as I have posted here previously, all facial imperfections that I had before the procedure are still on my face.
The superficial skin problems were so minor: light brown spots, 2 aks & 2 sks.
I am very fair skinned and I heal well and rapidly
I will opt for dermabrasion--which I had signed-up for with another MD--but the ActiveFX MD strongly suggested the ActiveFX. Dermabrasion, which I had 12 years ago around my mouth still looks wonderful ! I had deep lines all the way up to my nose and down to the chin. I was completely numb, no pain during & afterwards, and invested $500.
My MD, in another state, said lazer work does not last nearly as long as dermabrasion, and dermabrasion will remove ALL imperfections; it did.
I am 4 weeks post Active FX, and I look worse than I did.
No lazer marks, just waiting for a slight improvement on tone & texture.
I'm sure the stress and negative emotions are showing on my face. It should be happy and more hopeful than it is. This is a $3,000 nightmare, and I can't wake-up.
6/30/08
THank you for the information. I look forward to some pictures.
6/30/08
Hey, Maxine- I don't have any marks or darkened areas on my face. I have had to take Valtrex to control any fever blisters(thankfully I get that for free from my doc!)but all redness, swelling, etc, is gone. I have noticed a decrease in the deep wrinkles that run from my nose to mouth, lips are fuller, furoughs between my eyes are't as deep and overall appearance is smoother. I remember thinking when the doc that did the laser said he could see a difference about an hour later that is was probable just starting to swell. Thankfully I don't need to wear makeup to cover anything- it just plain makes me look a little more presentable! Had a patient remark the other day that he had never seen me in the office before. Actually I had seen him twice before! I guess I clean up okay. Will post another picture tomorrow-it will be the one month mark.
6/30/08
LaserLee- I can't believe you didn't have any pain with the microdermabrasion! I know there are different degrees of the chemical they use but if it does anything like the laser, well, you must be one tough cookie. Did you post any pictures? I think I'm going to go with some botox next chance I get, but only around my eyes. Have you ever had that? Last time I did it I got too much on my forehead and it caused my brow to droop. Sounds like you had your procedure the same day I did or close to it. This website has really been helpful to me and I am grateful for your imput.
6/30/08
Binnybib1 and others: I had a full Lanocaine block when I had dermabrasion. This is much deeper--aggressive--than microdermabrasion. The plastic surgeon used a tiny wire brush; it can be done with a metal instrument that is like a sraper. The wire brush was conducted via electricity. I know this sounds very harsh, but again this was done by a MD--a surgeon that had being doing the procedure for many years.
The MD that did this UnActive FX, wants to put me on Hydroquinone 8%, Reitan A, Fillers and Botox ! I have never once asked about using these--I'm not the least bit interested-- and this MD suggested all of them at my check-up, the week after my UnActive FX. I wanted to avoid using these named products above, so I opted for this lazer treatment instead ! More $$$$$
6/30/08
Binny,
You are very lucky to have the results you have. I do notice a little decrease in the nose to mouth wrinkles, but I'm attributing that to residual swelling because I still have slight swelling in that area. I guess I'm going to have to ask about the hydroquinine tomorrow to get rid of the discoloration. I wish I could tell if it will fade, but it doesn't look like it is going to. I wonder how long you have to use it to see fading. My doc said he starts people back on Retin A the 4th week. I've used Retin for about 5 years and love it. It really does make a difference, but at this point my skin is still too sensitive to use it. Before the procedure the doc told me this would be like using Retin A for 5 years with the improvement all in one day. I never had all the discoloration with Retin A.
8/27/08
GDeborall,
Your diary was such a welcome perspective on the ActiveFX experience. I've read it daily to remind myself to be patient...especially when I was looking like a goblin on days 1-3. My experience has been very similar, not a lot of pain but lots of swelling and bored senseless.
It's now day 4 and I can say that I'm starting to recognize myself again. I'm still red, even "angry" red in some spots but my doctor assures me that I'm healing very well and I consider myself fortunate that I really didn't experience any pain beyond the procedure itself. I had 2 valium, topical numbing and local anesthesia so that he could be aggressive. It was tolerable and I was tender 24 hours later but didn't need the vicodin he prescribed.
I started peeling on day 2 and by today (day 4) there is very little remaining flakiness. The only product that I've been slathering on religiously is the Vanicream cream that I've used for years as a moisturizer (Non-comedegenic and good for sensitive skin) I've also noticed an almost hourly improvement in the redness which has me running to a mirror every few hours to see what has changed. Yes, I am THAT bored. There are only so many closets I can clean out and loads of laundry to do so I sent my husband out today with a long list of DVDs that I've been meaning to watch forever...
I also got the go ahead for mineral makeup today but I think I'll wait until I'm ready to face the world again which, at this rate, should be in 2 days.
Overall, I'm very pleased with the experience and I can't tell you how much having this forum has helped to comfort me and deal with the emotional aspects of deliberately doing something so extreme to an otherwise attractive face. Patience is key as is finding a physician that you trust and who knows your skin.
I would be very interested in getting an update on your progress since your last posting.
8/29/08
Hi Erica,
I am still very happy that I did Active FX. It sure kept me out of the sun this summer and that wasn't easy. I live at the beach. I stll get redder than usual when I exercise no biggie. I get compliments more than ever on how flawless my skin is,really. I've seen that posted before but it's true. My only mistake,minor one,was mystic tanning. It made me slightly blotchy and uneven. I used my products for a few days and it got better. I'd really like to use a self tanner on my face to match my body (self tan) so if you have any ideas that wont blotch let me know.
Good luck with your process, I hope you also get the results you want.
9/14/08
Ijust had the Co 2 Fractional laser on Thursday....today is Saturday..
I had read alot of information about this procedure, and it was very perplexing...I understood that it wasnt painful..I kept reading "minimal pain" and words to that effect...When I arrived at the dermatolog