Fractionated Laser Treatment

Just as a damaged painting is delicately restored one small area at a time, or a photographic image is altered pixel by pixel, fractionated laser treatment improves your appearance by affecting only a fraction of your skin at a time with thousands of tiny microscopic laser spots. Fractionated laser is designed to repair aging and sun damaged skin by targeting portions of specific damaged tissue. By creating microscopic "wounds" within the targeted areas beneath the outer most epidermal layer of skin, fractionated laser treatment triggers the body's natural healing process accelerating the production of collagen and new, healthy skin cells.

In contrast to the early years of laser resurfacing, healing time is significantly accelerated so there is minimal downtime. Some patients are able to return to routine activities, including work and social obligations, the day after treatment. Others require a little more time, depending upon their skin condition and the intensity of the treatment.

Swelling and redness are the most common side effects from treatment. If swelling does occur, it is minimal and will subside within a day or two. Redness will occur and will fade at a rate that depends on the intensity and depth of the treatment. Redness with minimal energy settings will resolve within a few days. More aggressive settings for deep lines and extensive sun damage will require 7-10 days for the redness to lessen.

The topical anesthetic ointment and air cooling alleviates most discomfort. You will experience a mild sunburn sensation for about an hour and then minimal discomfort.

Over the following weeks and months, the body repairs the deeper dermal tissues that have been affected, producing longer beneficial changes associated with a healthy, youthful appearance.