Fraxel vs CO2 Laser for acne scar

I have a small area on my cheek with a few shallow atrophic acne scars. I've had a TCA peel (35%) and full face Erbium. Dermatologists say it isn't bad enough for C02 but haven't been dramatically improved with other options. They are now offering Fraxel. But I'm afraid that they offered it because it’s new and expensive.

I'd rather do 1 shot with C02 rather than 5 with Fraxel. Are there real benefits to Fraxel, other than relieving people of a few days downtime? I don't think that's worth it. Picture isn't that accurate. Thanks!

4 answers to “Fraxel vs CO2 Laser for acne scar”

A: Fraxel vs. CO2

By Ronald Shelton, MD - Manhattan Dermatologic surgeon

Unfortunately, as you stated, the photo is not as revealing as the examination your physician can perform. I understand your position of doing one treatment with CO2 but we do often find that acne scars improve more with multiple Fraxel treatments than one CO2. Statistically it appears that there is more risk... more

A: Fraxel is very good for acne scars

By Bruce Barach, MD - Albany Plastic Surgeon

I have found Fraxel to be the safest and best single procedure for treating acne scars. Other modalities can also be useful in the overall treatment plan, but Fraxel has supplanted everything else we use since it came along a couple of years ago. Nothing, including Fraxel, is "miraculous" for acne... more

A: Both Fraxel and CO2 Laser work well for acne scars

By Tomi L. Wall, MD - Oakland Dermatologist

I have both lasers and use and like the results with both lasers. I initially thought that Fraxel would not be strong enough to work on acne scars. However, I have been seeing better and better results, especially with the right treatment parameters. Now, I believe the results can equal those of CO2 in some... more

A: I use both

By Mary Lupo, MD - New Orleans Dermatologist

I have both Fraxel Restore and Active/Deep FX in my office and use both for acne scars. I really actually like Fraxel Restore better, and I am not prejudiced since I have both. There is no contest, however, for wrinkles. Active/Deep Fx is vastly superior to Fraxel Reatore. Good luck. PS The TCA was a waste of... more

Comments

battlescarr
11 posts
9 Apr 2009

I really want to thank all of you for offering your insight. I really, really appreciate it. My scars don't photograph well, (shouldn't complain) but I do have a few photos here: http://talk.newimage.com/plastic-surgery-albums/202215 I'm hoping that the various photos in different situations make it easier to put the general idea of what it looks like together, since the scarring doesn't appear as "bad" in photos as it does in person. Again, thanks so much

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