Fast facts

Fraxel Laser

What it is: a fractionated laser treatment designed for resurfacing wrinkled, sun-damaged, scarred and aging skin

What it addresses:

There are three types of Fraxel laser treatments that address a  range of skin problems and skin types. Fraxel Re:fine is a mild, non-ablative aesthetic laser treatment performed in a series for discoloration, age spots, and general improvement to skin tone. Fraxel Re:store is deeper treatment which uses a fractionated erbium laser and provides non-ablative treatment with minimal downtime. Fraxel Re:pair is an ablative fractionated CO2 laser for the most intensive resurfacing and epidermal repair.

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Question

How do I find the best doctor for Fraxel treatment?

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Asked by: Anonymous

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1
February 23, 2008

Fraxel, Schmaxel, or Steve Trachsel?

Michael A. Persky, MD
Michael A. Persky, MD
Board Certified
Facial Plastic Surgeon

Fraxel laser was the first fractionated laser treatment, debuting about five years ago. Since that time, many laser companies have jumped on the technology bandwagon and come out with their version of fractionated laser skin rejuvenation. There is Pixel, and other fractionated laser technologies. There are also IPL lasers that some unscrupulous practitioners may treat unsuspecting patients with, saying that they are getting "Fraxel" treatment.

Reliant Technologies web site has a "locate a doctor" page. Finding a practice on that web site is a way of assuring that you are getting the actual Fraxel technology. You should also look at the actual laser machine before your treatment, which should have Reliant and Fraxel logos on its front.

Many practices have a nurse practioner performing the treatment, so ask if the doctor performs the treatment. At your consultation, ask to see the doctor's before and after pictures that pertain to your individual skin needs. Do not settle for the before and after pictures of the company only.

So, Fraxel is not Schmaxel, Pixel, or for those of you who are not baseball fans, Steve Trachsel (a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and New York Mets).

In the Los Angeles area, call me biased, but you are the one who asked how to find the best doctor, you won't go wrong having Michael Persky, M.D. do your Fraxel treatment.

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2
June 14, 2007
Virginia Stevens, MD
Virginia Stevens, MD

Look for a provider who does the following steps to decrease patients' pain during Fraxel laser treatments:

  • Applies a topical anesthetic for an hour and a half
  • Performs a nerve block in the facial nerves by injecting small amounts of Lidocaine
  • Administers a narcotic analgesic and a shot for nausea
  • Gives the patient a Zimmer, which is a machine that produces a cold jet of air, which the patient can apply to areas of discomfort
  • Upgraded to the latest Fraxel machine with clear tips, no more blue dye, and a shorter, more comfortable treatment with fewer passes
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