Is scarring a side effects with a higher intensity laser beam?

Yes. Scarring can occur with either the Fraxel Re:store or Re:pair laser but there is a higher chance with the latter. Scarring may be red thick raised or depressed scars. This is rare but no physician can guarantee that scarring won’t occur with chemical peels, dermabrasion or laser resurfacing of any kind.

Both Fraxel Re:Pair and Fraxel Re:Store can do an excellent job of smoothing out scars, making them less noticeable or even invisible. They have very few side effects and have been proven safe by the FDA and by years of use. Re:Pair is a stronger, ablative CO2 laser and will work in one session. Re:Store is gentler, non-ablative and will probably take several sessions to remove your scars. 
In the hands of an expert, neither Fraxel laser should cause scarring. During your consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, your skin will be evaluated for texture, tone and color so that the correct laser and settings can be determined. Side effects for Re:Pair include a reddened face that may feel tight for up to two weeks. Re:Store generally has no side effects at all. Some peeling or dryness may occur for some patients with either laser. Please find a board-certified dermatologist to find out which Fraxel will work best for you.

Scarring is ALWAYS a side effect with ANY laser. That is why it is VERY important to go to a physician who is an expert in laser surgery. Reducung the appearance of acne scars usually takes more than one treatment. We have found that patient’s can expect a 50% improvement with each treatment so that 1 treatment gives you a 50% improvement , 2 treatments give you a 75% improvement, 3 treatments gives you a 87.5% improvement, etc.

Hi Vin,
Fraxel re:store is less aggressive with almost no chance of scarring with the series of treatments.
Fraxel re:pair (fractionated CO2 laser) is more aggressive and treats acne scarring more effectively. There is increased chance of scarring with more aggressive treatments, but it is very rare, especially in acne scar patients.
Good luck with your treatments and be well.
Dr. P

Thank you for your question. I can understand you concerns, however scarring is always a side effect with any laser. That is why we always recommend you to see an expert physician with any treatment you undergo, especially in laser surgery. Normally it takes more than 1 treatment to reduce acne scars and you can expect to see 50% of improvement with each treatment and the percentage rises with each treatment. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!