Fraxel Repair to Minimize Fresh Scar?

When post-op is the best time to undergo Fraxel Repair to minimize a scar on the face? Is the sooner the better? How soon exactly?

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Violeta in Texas & Canada

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Fraxel Repair may not be necessary for minimizing fresh scar

Without a detailed history or examination, the general rule is to wait 4-6 weeks post-op until corrective laser treatments can be performed. However, the face heals well, and if you are not taking any medications after your surgery, namely blood-thinners and corticosteroids, you may be treated as early as 7-14 days after. Numerous lasers have the capability to stimulate and renew collagen. As soon as sutures have been removed from a surgery, correction can be initiated with a pulsed-dye... more

Nissan Pilest, MD

4 reviews

Irvine Dermatologic Surgeon

Fraxel Repair for facial scar

Fractional CO2 lasers (including Fraxel:Repair) can be used at many different times to improve or minimize scarring. The laser can be used as early as after sutures are placed during the original surgery. However, I would recommend waiting at least 6-8 weeks before considering CO2 laser. The simple answer is, there are no studies showing optimal time for laser after scarring. There ARE, however, studies showing that dermabrasion is best at 6-8 weeks after the original surgery to minimize... more

Best Timing for Fraxel repair to Minimize Fresh Facial Scar

Hi V, Usuallly one to weeks after surgery is sufficient time to have Fraxel repair to minimize scarring. You are correct in that sooner is better. Good luck and be well. Dr. P

Michael A. Persky, MD

21 reviews

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

drpersky.com

When sutures are out, can start using Fraxel Dual for scar control

I would not recommend Fraxel re:pair for a fresh scar. I think you would do better with the 1550nm of the Fraxel dual laser to improve the look of a fresh scar. That can be done as soon as the sutures are removed. A pulse dye laser is another alternative for improving the looks of fresh scars.