Will Botox injections before Fraxel Repair produce better results?

I am planning to have Fraxel Repair, and have heard that having Botox injections a couple of weeks before having laser treatment will yield better results. Is this true? I would be interested in some advice.

4 answers to “Will Botox injections before Fraxel...”

A: Collagen resurfacing and Botox

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD

Although studies are scarce and can be counted on one hand regarding the combined used of collagen resurfacing techniques and Botox, at least in efficacy versus staged performance of Botox and resurfacing or resurfacing followed by Botox, what we see clinically bears out the following: Better results are... more

A: Botox before laser resurfacing is commonly recommended

Ronald Shelton, MD

It is commonly recommended by physicians to perform Botox prior to resurfacing so that the treated area heals on a smoother base rather than having new skin form on an area that keeps creasing as the muscles move. Many of us who do these procedures see this benefit in the short term but I’m not aware of... more

A: Combined procedures work best

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Aphrodite, Better results are usually obtained by combining non invasive procedures such as the ones you mention.  You can expect the same in your case.  Good luck!

A: Botox does indeed improve the results

Mary Lupo, MD

Studies have proven that Botox 2-4 weeks prior to resurfacing (whether it be fully ablative or fractional) definitely improves the results of wrinkle reduction of the crow's feet, and likely the glabellar frown lines and frontalis forehead lines as well. This is becasue the skin is not moving as much during... more

Comments

Tino
unregistered guest

23 Jan 2009

What about Juvederm injections before or after Fraxel for acne scars?

awalk
465 posts
22 Feb 2009

Get botox a month or longer before fraxel..Never do a fractionated laser the same day as botox....especially a deep one.... I personally would not get fraxel or deep fx ect after filler for several months..Even then it’s questionable depending on depth and area… I don't know of any studies regarding other fillers radiasse or sculptra with fractionated lasers They seem like a contraindication to me...But I don't have medical experience...On the other hand I have no financial incentive either... You must ask your doctor specific questions...I’ve had no problems could be only one patient… Fraxel ect cause your body to have an immune reaction to expel foreign substances…The coagulated skin…. While juvederm and restylane are not recognized as a foreign substance neither is skin and they do attract water to plump the skin… This laser is attracted to water and you could be over treated in those areas especially if you have it in areas where the skin is thinner… Even with the few limited studies that say its safe I would proceed with caution… The studies I read say it doesn’t change the structure of HA’s not that your body won’t try to expel it or that the laser will not be attracted to those areas more…. Good luck and don't be intimidated to ask direct questions

drbanda
95 posts
23 Dec 2008

Facial rejuvenation works best as a combination of any number of different procedures. Botox, fillers and lasers used in combination give the best results compared to any one treatment alone. Skin care products come into play too. If you are going to get Botox before the resurfacing procedure it does have to be Botox no sooner than 2-4 weeks before the resurfacing. You are unlikely to get the full benefit from the Botox if it is done sooner before the resurfacing procedure. Ablative procedures too soon after the injection of Botox and fillers do seem to adversely affect the outcome of the injectables. My practice is to do Botox and fillers after the resurfacing procedure. The combined effect will ultimately be similar.

Steven A. Schlosser M.D.
92 posts
24 Dec 2008

Nearly all Cosmetic procedures that are non-surgical work best when combined, Each procedure tends to do something a little different... and we often talk about the concept that 1+1 equals 3. Botox relaxes overactive muscles allowing any resurfacing to appear to provide better and smoother skin results. This is because the resurfacing is not fighting with the muscles. I agree with others that Botox 2-3 weeks before any type of resurfacing is a valuable adjunct and will enhance the overall results.

SkinWizard
4 posts
23 Dec 2008

By relaxing the subcutaneous muscles, BOTOX allows wrinkles to improve and evens the highs and lows of the skin.  In my experience, when resurfacing of almost any kind is then performed the results are usually better than they would have been in the absence of the wrinkle improvement. You should, of course, be guided by the experience of your physician.  

Post your question

Fraxel Repair before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.