Fraxel Restore from a Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist?

Question

There are several places by me that offer Fraxel Restore. I have acne scars and was recommended by a dermatologist to have this treatment done. There are a few plastic surgery centers and one place called a Dermatology and Laser treatment center. I like the sound of the laser center with dermatologists, because the name sounds like they obviously have experience in lasers. But I have no idea if a plastic surgeon would be better or if the dermatologist would be.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Either a dermatologist or plastic surgeon can perform this treatment well. What is essential is to have an experienced laser surgeon do your treatment. Although nurses and physician assistants can do an excellent job, laser energies involved with acne scar treatment might be better utilized by physicians who know the anatomy and science of skin healing. If there is direct physician supervision, then it might be fine, but many doctors will do this treatment themselves and I prefer that for acne scars.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

Both dermatologists and plastic surgeons are exposed to lasers during their training. However, laser teaching is widely variable and most experienced laser physicians are members of the American Society of Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (ASLMS). I would recommend checking to see if your doctor is a member of ASLMS. Also make sure you look for before and after photographs. Many photographs are provided by the laser company when the doctor purchases the laser. Make sure and look for photographs of patients which that particular doctor has treated and also feel free to ask him or her for references of patients who have been treated.

Mary P. Lupo, MD · Answer

In general, I recommend you go to the doctor with the most experience treating your particular problem. If you want to be cut on for a facelift or nose correction, see a plastic surgeon first. Eye issues? Likely an oculoplastic surgeon will have the greatest expertise. Injectables are done all day, every day by cosmetic dermatologsits while surgeons are in the operating room (although more and more surgeons are choosing injectables over the knife), so a cosmetic dermatologist likely does more Botox and filler than many plastic surgeons. Finally, when it comes to advice on acne, discolored skin, fine lines, I personnaly think you get the best guidance from a dermatologist.

J. Timothy Heffernan, MD · Answer

Who ever you have treat your acne scars, make sure they have experience. Experience is much more important than the type of doctor who is going to treat your acne scars. Do your homework find someone who is experienced and who you are comfortable with.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

I think you are too caught up with the name on the door than the name on the board certification diploma.
Either a board certified Dermatologist or a board certified Plastic surgeon who is experienced with lasers would be competent. But I would NOT have my face cooked by a laser based on the group's name. The name is both a marketing and legal ploy which has little to do with what is behind it.
You may want to look up Dr. Barry DiBernardo in Montclair. He is an acknowledged laser specialist.
Good Luck.
Dr. P. Aldea

Fraxel Restore from a Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist?

Answers (6)