How long until you see final results of fraxel laser resurfacing?

Question

After 3 sessions, does it take 6 months after the last session to judge the results? In the meantime, will collegen be forming?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Most people will see the majority of the results within a few months after your last treatment. In some cases, our office optimizes Fraxel results with Ematrix treatments, dermapenning, topical creams, and Ulthera to help with results. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Fraxel laser skin resurfacing tricks your skin into creating new skin to replace the damaged, or targeted areas, resulting in natural skin rejuvenation. It is a safe, non-invasive laser skin treatment without the risks of major side effects or prolonged downtime of other procedures.The Fraxel Laser treats mild to moderate acne scarring, sun spots/damage and fine wrinkles. Many people notice results within a week after their first treatment. Their skin feels smoother, looks less blotchy, and has a glow. Some people notice a difference after one treatment, but the recommended Fraxel treatments are usually done in a set of 3, about 4 weeks apart.

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Great question! Fraxel is currently the gold
standard in fractionated laser resurfacing. “Fractionated” refers to the
technology used; meaning a fraction of the skin is treated while the rest is
left untouched, allowing for fast healing.

The Fraxel Dual system utilizes two different
wavelengths: The Thulium wavelength for superficial skin issues such as sun
damage, and the Erbium wavelength for deeper skin issues such as fine lines and
scarring. Depending on your skin concerns, a physician will treat with the
appropriate wavelength, or even utilize both wavelengths to tackle multiple
issues at once. You generally need at least 3 Fraxel treatments for significant
results.

If you are being treated for superficial
issues such as pigmentation, you will see initial results as soon as 1-3 weeks
post treatment, with results improving with each session. Deeper issues such as
indented acne scarring and fine lines will require more time, as collagen
stimulation is a gradual process. In these cases, you may still notice initial
textural improvements within the first few weeks, however full results can take
up to 6 months. During this period, your body is still actively producing new
collagen.

Consult with a board certified Dermatologist
to discuss expectations, and determine which type of Fraxel may be best for
you.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear eyelid123,

Fractional ablative resurfacing, using a Fraxel or other
laser devices generally will require three to six sessions depending on energy
levels, each separated by between one and six weeks.  In general after a series of treatments of
adequate energy level, waiting four to six months to assess the results would
be a conservative approach to scar management. 
In this time certainly non-ablative fractional and non-fractional laser
such as intense pulse light therapy or the infrared non-ablative fractionals
and radio frequency bulk heating devices can continue to be used on a monthly
basis.

Patients and time following laser treatments is usually your
best friend and over aggressive treatments particularly in non-Caucasian skin
can lead to complications, so conservative and a metered more gradual approach
is indicated.

I hope this information has been of some assistance and for
more information, please review the link below.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

How long until you see final results of fraxel laser resurfacing?

Answers (4)

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