Hi Gina,
Dr. Lupo has answered your question beautifully, I agree with her 100%. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and sun exposure all contribute to lessen the results of Fraxel re:pair laser treatments. I have seen both immediate as well as continued later improvement in acne scar patients following Fraxel repair. Everyone's skin and healing capability are different. Your results also depend on your Fitzpatrick skin type which affects the depth and density of your treatment.
Given the histological evidence, as well as what I have empirically observed in my own patients, I do believe that there is continued new collagen production and improvement of results over a 4 to 6 month period following the treatment. Have your physician take pictures at your next visit and compare them to your before pictures.
We also emphasize to patients that with acne scarring it may take anywhere from 1 to 3 treatments for optimal results. Be well.
Dr. P
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