Hi jonjanna --
We have the Fraxel repair and the Lumenis Ultrapulse Encore (which is used for Active FX and TotalFx). Both can be used successfully, but we prefer the Fraxel repair. Our centre was involved in the clinical trials for Fraxel and have found it to be an excellent device for resurfacing both the face, neck, and chest.
The neck cannot be treated as aggressively when compared to the face. Don't expect surgical quality tightening, but you can see nice improvement in texture and sun damage with some tightening of the skin.
Expect at least 1 week of "social downtime", as you will be red, swollen, and peeling. In my opinion, these are treatments that have serious potential risks, including infection, scarring, and pigment changes and should only be performed by a physician, not delegated to other medical staff members.
By the way, the company that makes the Fraxel repair is based in Mountain View, CA.
Take care,
Dr. Groff
