Are there any long-term negative consequences of Fraxel laser treatments?

Question

I've read several horror stories about people having Fraxel treatments and then suffering facial fat loss and "holes" left in their faces. Is this common with Fraxel treatments? And is there reason to be concerned that, even if the Fraxel laser doesn't harm someone immediately, damage can appear years after treatment?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fraxel is a laser procedure which can have consequences such as scarring, infection, irregular pigmentation etc. If you go to a well trained laser and skin care expert, the chance of this happening is much less.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Ariel Ostad, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Fraxel treatments are safe.
The horror stories you have read are due to inappropriate treatments performed
by inexperienced physicians. Please avoid all medical spas, and laser clinics
that perform innovated laser treatments. I highly recommend selecting a board
certified dermatologist to perform a safe and effective procedure. However, Fraxel
is not advised for everyone especially those who are predisposed to keloid
formation or excessive scarring, undergoing isotretinoin treatment or taking
drugs in a similar class, or have an active bacterial infections.

Overall, Fraxel treatment is a safe option backed by
extensive research. Of course with any laser procedure there’s always some risk
and certain safety precautions to take, but with a proper consultation, your
doctor can discuss if Fraxel is right for you. Fraxel has many benefits and is
a great choice for resurfacing your skin to help diminish age or sun spots,
reduce wrinkles, pigmentation, and actinic keratosis. After the procedure, you
will experience some redness and skin sensitivity, but the finished result is
amazing! Best, Dr.Ostad

Roy G. Geronemus, MD · Answer

There are multiple types of fraxel lasers; either non-ablative (does not wound the skin) or ablative (superficial wounding) which takes time to heal.  There are always risks with any procedures of any type; however, the risks from fractional laser treatments are small and the side effects are usually temporary.  It is important to be in experienced hands for any procedure, particularly any procedure where wounding of the skin occurs.

Are there any long-term negative consequences of Fraxel laser treatments?

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Are there any long-term negative consequences of Fraxel laser treatments?

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Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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