Should I Get Active FX and Deep FX Together (Total FX)?

Question

I was going to make an appointment for Active FX today, but it seems like everyone is getting Deep FX with their Active FX now.  Should I get both too?  What's the difference if I get Active FX by itself vs. Deep FX with Active FX?  How much more expensive is it?

Brett S. Kotlus, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The ActiveFX and DeepFx treatments are both performed with the same machine, called the Lumenis Encore, but they use different handpieces. Both are carbon dioxide laser resurfacing treatments, but the DeepFx goes deeper, so it addresses deeper wrinkles.
DeepFX generally results in more downtime than ActiveFX alone, including redness and swelling.  However, if you are already having DeepFX, the addition of ActiveFX treatment at the same time does not appear to increase downtime over DeepFX alone. Keep in mind that it can take months to acheive the final result, as the laser energy stimulates collagen growth which takes time.

Mona S. Foad, MD · Answer

We do bith treatments in the office and do them together.  I usually do the DeepFX first to target deeper wrinkles, crepiness on the cheeks and areas of concern such as lines around the mouth or eyes.  
The Deep FX goes deeper and helps stimulate collagen so your results will continue to improve.  I then usually go over the whole face with the Active FX to help with concerns such as pigment, fine lines and to give he face an overall healthier appearance.  By adding the Deep FX to your treatment  you will add 2-4 days additional healing, but your results will be better and longer lasting.

Jeffrey Kenkel, MD · Answer

We use both active and deep FX in our practice. Active FX really is a superficial treatment that is targeting superficial lines and pigmentation. I use deep FX to target moderate depth wrinkles and acne scarring. I often use both together but not always. Like anything in plastic surgery, I tailor the procedure to the patient's need and tolerance for downtime

Janet M. Neigel, MD · Answer

You will get a more superficial result with Active FX.  This will heal in about 4 days.  The Deep FX gives a more collagen stimulating result and takes longer to heal about 5-7 days.  The combination of the 2 is the home run with the most improvement seen but of course the longer healing time.  If you have the time go for it!

Philip Young, MD · Answer

Active FX can treat the more superficial elements of the skin like superficial wrinkles, pigmentation, and scars. Deep fx stimulates more of the deeper tissue to cause the skin to contract and shrink to increase the tone of the skin and create more collagen within the deeper layers. They can be done together for less downtime and more results.  
With just Active FX, you will get more subtle resutls and less down time; when you add Deep FX, you get more tightening while keeping the down time less. Deep FX creates a strong laser that penetrates deeply while Active FX is more superficial with less penetration. Especially for people with darker skin, this modality is ideal!

Should I Get Active FX and Deep FX Together (Total FX)?

Answers (6)

Answer: Active FX with deep FX laser

Answer: Active FX with deep FX laser

Answer: Deep FX and Active FX are ideally used together

Answer: Deep FX and Active FX are ideally used together

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Should I Get Active FX and Deep FX Together (Total FX)?

Answers (6)

Answer: Active FX with deep FX laser

Answer: Active FX with deep FX laser

Answer: Deep FX and Active FX are ideally used together

Answer: Deep FX and Active FX are ideally used together

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about TotalFX

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.