I want to have fraxel (2 or 3 sessions) to even out my skin tone, minimize wrinkles, pores, small scars, age spots, but I also need injectable fillers like restylane, radiesse, juvederm in my nasolabial folds, cheekbones, under my eyes. My question is what should I do first. If I have fillers and botox first and then fraxel laser, is there a risk that the fraxel laser will destroy the fillers? How many weeks should I wait between fillers, botox and fraxel? Thanks a lot, I read conflicting info
Answer
Botox helps relax muscles so resurfacing heals on calmer less contracting skin, and it takes up to 1-2 weeks for Botox to work so it makes sense to do Fraxel after the Botox has had a chance to relax the muscles.After the series of Fraxel laser resurfacing treatments, fillers can be done.Of course, every patient is dealt with focusing on their history, examination, needs and timing. There is not a wrong way to do this as there has been no evidence that Fraxel laser would interfere with Botox or fillers, or vice versa.The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.
Dr. Ron Shelton, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Fillers should be injected a few weeks following Fraxel laser skin resurfacing. The thermal damage from the laser could break down the filler if it is placed prior to laser. In addition, a strong laser treatment could change the contour of the face; therefore, it is best to judge the volume and location of filler placement after laser treatment. Botox should be injected 1 week prior to the laser procedure. This will help diminish facial movement and allow the skin to heal with better results. Botox injections should not immediately follow any procedure that cause skin swelling or it may risk migration to other undesirable locations. I hope you find this helpful.
Dr. James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Thank you for your question. In clinical studies, there was no difference which is done first, lasers or fillers. However, some providers may have a certain preference and I would follow their protocols. Botox may be performed at any time as well. I would recommend a consult and treatment under the supervision of a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for best results and safest treatment options. I hope this helps!
Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Fraxel laser should not affect fillers. Still, I would advise you to wait one month so you are definitely sure your filler is settled therefore you will minimize the risk of any complications. Good luck!
Answer
It is controversial whether or not the heat from lasers and devices accelerate the breakdown of fillers. From my experience, it is best to have fillers injected after you complete your Fraxel treatment. I typically tell my patients to wait 1-2 weeks after fillers are injected before having Fraxel or other treatments that drive heat into the skin. Radiofrequency and ultrasound devices for skin tightening deliver heat more deeply into the skin than Fraxel laser, so I suggest waiting 2 weeks after filler placement before undergoing these treatments. I do not hesitate to treat with Botox on the same day as any laser treatment.