USING FRACTIONAL NON-ABLATIVE LASER PLASTIC SURGERY
The Fractional Non-Ablative laser is a type of laser plastic surgery that uses fractional technology to split light photons into precision microbeams that go into the skin sub-layers, by the creation of narrow, but deep treatment columns in the skin. The beams work by targeting different sections of the skin at a time. These are called Microthermal Treatment Zones (MTZ). The old epidermal pigmented cells get expelled from the MTZ, and the collagen gets to penetrate into the dermis. This causes the generation of new skin tissue around the target areas, due to the body’s natural healing process. Non-ablative lasers use a narrow range of light wavelengths. Fractional Non-ablative Laser surgeries make use of mostly Fiber Lasers, which are optical fibers ‘doped’ with certain elements to generate laser beams of specific desired wavelengths. The most commonly used fiber for this purpose is the Erbium glass fiber. Fractional Non-ablative laser skin resurfacing therapy is a relatively new, safe and effective skin resurfacing and collagen stimulation procedure. It results in healthy, younger-looking and smoother skin. The difference between the ablative and non-ablative procedures is the depth of laser penetrations, and also the effect, or lack of effect, on tissue evaporation (Ablation). While the ablative laser surgery goes into the mid-layer of the skin, the non-ablative laser surgery acts on the surface skin layers and only heats the tissue without evaporating it as done by ablative surgery. This, in turn, translates to the difference in the recovery time between the two. The first-ever marketed Fractional Laser, the Fraxel device, emits a 1550-nm wavelength non-ablative beam. The market has expanded to include a number of Erbium lasers for superficial treatments. The procedure is used in the treatment of sun damage, photo-aging scars, and other skin problems. There is also the Palomar 1540 fractional laser, and Palomar 2940 fractional laser to fade fine lines and wrinkles. It works pretty much like the CO2 laser skin resurfacing technology without the extended recovery period. The Palomar 1540 fractional laser, a non-ablative Erbium laser is used for resurfacing with no downtime. The required results can be gotten in a 3 or 4 procedures. These procedures can be done within one month of each other. The Palomar Lux 2940; with a recovery period of between 2 – 5 days, this sophisticated fractional ablative laser technology gives you younger-looking skin in just one procedure. Fractional Non-ablative laser surgeries work best in the treatment of wrinkles and fine lines. To determine the suitability of this procedure for you, you need to consult with a professional dermatologist or qualified plastic surgeon. Your medical history should be reviewed, and a physical exam conducted to help you determine what laser plastic surgery procedure works best for you. You can consult with our Dr. Plano if you are in or around Plano, TX. You can reach our team of highly skilled doctors at www.drplano.net.
BENEFITS
This non-surgical procedure gives visibly younger skin with little or no downtime needed for recuperation. It works to improve skin texture and tone as well as limiting the visibility of scars (acne, surgical scars). It also improves skin pigmentation, reduces wrinkles and pores. Fractional lasers are also used in the treatment of pre-cancerous skin lesions. Another plus is that it can be used on any part of the body. It is also quicker and with less discomfort than the ablative CO2 Laser procedure.
DURATION
About 3 to 5 procedures might be required depending on the effectiveness of the procedure on the condition it is to correct. Generally, a minimum of three procedures is advised. The procedures are carried out about four weeks apart. Also, the lifestyle of the patient could affect the number of procedures required. The procedure could consist of three full face procedures, followed by smaller procedures targeted at certain points on the face. The skin is cleansed before treatment, and a laser beam is passed through a series of movements over the treatment area. To reduce the prickly (pins and needles) sensation associated with the procedure, a numbing treatment is given before, and some ice applied during or after the procedure to reduce the effect of heat on the skin. The process takes about 30 minutes. There may be some reddening, flaking, or scarring for a few days after the treatment, depending on the type and level of treatment gotten. But most of these are easily covered up and not debilitating to the patient. Proper sun protection and home care are required after the procedure, especially within the first two to seven days. A good skin care regimen should be put in place, to protect the newly rejuvenated skin.
RESULTS
You start to see and feel the results almost immediately after surgery. Within a short period, your skin feels softer and smoother, looking brighter and with a more even tone. The process gets better, and the results are more evident within the next 3 to 6 months after the procedure, as the skin continues to regenerate. The results last for a long period of time depending on the lifestyle and age of the patient. The period can be extended with a good skin care routine and reduced exposure to skin-damaging conditions. The treated parts of the skin must always be well moisturized. For skin with pigmentation present on it, the pigment might darken for a few days, before flaking off to give glowing, younger looking skin. For consultation on Fractional Non-Ablative laser surgery and any other cosmetic surgery procedures, visit Dr. Plano at Plano, TX, or check out our website at www.drplano.net to book an appointment with a team of professional plastic surgeons.
