POSTED UNDER Fraxel Laser REVIEWS
Fraxel - Treatment 1
ORIGINAL POST
I spent all weekend researching the Fraxel II...
rookieApril 18, 2008
WORTH IT$2,350
I spent all weekend researching the Fraxel II treatment before my appointment on Wednesday. I spoke with my Doc on Tuesday and raised the issues that I had read about at this site, specically post-op issues, meds for pain, and downtime. I was very specific and I think I caught her somewhat off-guard with my questions. I was seriously not going to have the treatment if I didn't get specific answers to these issues.
The Doc explained that my treatment was specifically designed for acne scarring. The laser would be set deeper and the beams would be set further apart so there would be more tissue spared. She told me that based on her experience everyone reacts differently to the treatment. The Doc prescribed Valtrex as an anti-viral anticipating cold sore breakout. No other meds. My experience was: 1. the lidocaine cream was left in place for about 90 minutes. 2. I had no other pain meds. The Doc was amused by the comments I related about nerve block injections, IV sedation, Xanax and Vicodin (sp) and commented that if I wanted to do only a small test area that she would accomodate. 3. laser: took about 10 minutes for the treatment. She did 7 passes over my entire face. My nurse used the cooling wand. I had no pain, tingle yes, but nothing like the reviews. 4. Post-op: Day 1 Treatment:Ice immediately after the treatment, moisturizer, then I went home. (My nurse who assisted the Doc had 3 previous full face treatments and several cheek only treatments. She looked great.) My face felt like I had been exposed to super cold temperatures (below 0) and then felt like a bad windburn. I was red and somewhat swollen all day. I iced during the day but gradually felt better. I could have gone out if I wanted. Thursday Day 2: today, less red; some swelling around my eyes but generally, the swelling has gone down to almost normal - the best part - my worst acne scars (cheek)are gone today. My wife and I really can't believe the results so far. I am moisturizing and applying sunblock every 5 hours. Some peeling starting to occur at the base of my nose. I suspect the diminished scarring is probably the result of the swelling but if I can end up with these results after 3 treatments it is worth the money and minor discomfort. No breakout of acne or white heads.
Tomorrow I am going to the gym and then to work. I will post after Day 3.
Good luck everyone.
rookie's provider
UPDATED FROM rookie
13 Days - It's been almost two weeks since my...
rookieApril 29, 2008
13 Days -
It's been almost two weeks since my first treatment. I continue to moisturize and sometimes put sunblock on. My wife insists that the deepest acne scars and large pores have disappeared and that my color is much better. The deeper lines and wrinkles are still there.
I have my next treatment on June 6 and will add to the review.
I am happy so far - no reactions, not any pain or downtime after the first 36 hours. Definitely a thumbs up so far.
Replies (15)
June 13, 2008
Please continue to update, I'm going for my consultation this Friday and I'm seriously considering Fraxel for acne scars. Your results seem really promising, and I want this treatment to work, I have been put off by some of the results that others have been getting. I hope you see the results you desire!
June 14, 2008
Skyshell,
I read the postings and share all of your concerns. I spent a half hour on the phone with my Doc before my first treatment discussing all the horror stories and recommendations posted. My wife admits that there is a real difference that she can see after the first treatment. I had my second treatment 8 days ago. It went well. I was much more upbeat and positive about the treatment than during the first,(very nervous and concerned about complications.) The second treatment had less downtime than the first with a higher setting. I have not had a real peel of skin, which is unusual. I am convinced that everyone is different and tolerates the laser differently.
I was very unhappy with my appearance - deep acne scars. The treatment made a big difference for me in a lot of ways. I am very happy that I spent the $ and had the treatments. My third treatment is scheduled for July 11 and that will probably be the last.
Three things: make sure that the Doc is reputable. I went to Lahey Clinic in Burlington MA - big hospital, with strict protocols. I would not go to a boutique Laser Center for this, just me.
2nd: have someone go with you for the first treatment.
3rd: make sure they leave the numbing crean on for at least 1 1/2 hrs. My face was completely numb for 4 hours after the treatment. You don't want to feel anything right?
Best of luck with the consultation..it was worth it for me.Let me know how it goes.
Best,
Peter
June 17, 2008
Thanks Peter. I wound up going for the consultation with a reputable dermatogist in my area (Nassau County, NY) and decided to go ahead. I had my first treatment this morning. I have some redness and swelling, but nothing like I was anticipating. I was given valium and a vicadin, not to mention the numbing cream. So, I was really feeling no pain. Even still the laser was uncomfortable, but not unbearable. I prepaid for 5 treatments. My next treatment won't be until the end of July, (only because I will be away). I'm hoping to get some good results. Best of luck to you as well.
June 22, 2008
I have had two of four scheduled Fraxel treatments with a doctor in La Jolla - I love the results on my neck & chest area and have had no complications or problems with this procedure. Incidentally, I have tried numerous other procedures that did not work at all. Also, my doctor has added in my crowsfeet - they suggested Botox with the first treatment to facilitate smoothing of the skin while I get the treatements done. It does look better and I am now 6 weeks out from the first session.
June 25, 2008
Rookie, Thank you so much for your review, it was informative and very helpful. I also think the advice you gave to Skyshell was excellent. I too have acne scarring and that was main reason I decided to try Fraxel. I had my first treatment last Thursday, was going to go alone but am now very thankful that my husband ended up taking me. I did experience some discomfort during the treatment, post treatment my face was very red, had some swelling the first two days, then my face felt like sandpaper, still does in spots, and I do have a few breakouts. I'm thankful I didn't find this website until the Sat after my treatment because at first glance there are a lot of negative comments. However, I noticed that many gave up after one or two treatments and I was shocked at the number of people who had a tech instead of a doctor perform the procedure. Looking forward to hearing about your final treatment and results. Thanks again for your encouraging words and advice!
Replies (0)