Fractional laser skin resurfacing is a highly effective and less aggressive skin care procedure aimed at rejuvenating the skin and getting rid of imperfections such as certain types of acne scars. The fractional technique involves the use of a range of precise micro-beams of laser to treat columns of skin rather than whole areas.
This technique makes the laser effect more dispersed, leading to less patient discomfort and shorter recovery. Risk of complications is mitigated and the procedure can be successfully used for a variety of skin treatments, including acne scars. Dr. Steven Zimmet is an accomplished dermatologist providing fractional skin resurfacing treatments to patients in Austin, TX and surrounding locations in this part of The Lone Star State.
Fractional Resurfacing Technology
For more severe cases of acne scarring, Dr. Zimmet may recommend the Lumenis Ultrapulse CO2 laser (Active FX, Deep FX, Total FX) for fractionated ablative skin resurfacing. This is a stronger treatment approach that can help achieve more substantive reduction in the appearance of scars than non-ablative approaches. Face, neck and chest can be treated with ablative fractionated CO2 laser. The patient will typically go through a downtime of about five days with this treatment.
In cases where the patient wants to get rid of mild to moderate acne scars, Dr. Zimet may employ the ENDYMED™ 3DEEP fractional resurfacing method. This technology is based on radio frequency (RF) energy. The applicator will transmit RF energy pulses under the skin’s surface.
Controlled heating of the deep dermis will stimulate the fresh generation of collagen and support new skin growth. The patient will go through shorter treatment time and have a quicker recovery with this dermatology procedure.
How does fractional resurfacing work?
The fractional technique heats the skin in microscopic columns with microbeams of energy. This triggers the natural production of collagen fibers in a gentler way, without damaging the external skin layers. The skin is gradually volumized from within, resulting in filling of mild acne scars and depressions, and restoration of a smoother, more radiant looking facial skin.
Depending on the patient’s skin condition and their personal cosmetic needs, Dr. Zimmet will determine whether CO2 laser or RF technique may be more suited for a patient. The total number of treatment sessions will also vary from one patient to another. As a starting point, the patient may be recommended three treatments. Additional treatments may be required depending on the progress and results.
If the scars are more superficial in nature, they will usually diminish or even disappear after the first three treatments. However, some patients may need more time, particularly if the acne scars have been present for years. In such cases, the fibrotic tissue in the damaged skin will need more treatments to disintegrate, but usually no more than six would be necessary.
Recovery
Each treatment session of fractional resurfacing may last for about one hour. If the treatment is non-ablative, the patient will go through minimal discomfort and will have quick recovery. Redness may last for about five days, but the patient can return to work the next day.
Experienced and profound dermatologist Dr. Zimmet receives patients from Austin, TX and nearby areas for fractional resurfacing for acne scars.
If you would like to learn more about the procedures and treatments by Austin TX Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Steven Zimmet, please contact us at (512) 485-7700.