How It Works

Also known as fractional photothermolysis, fractional laser resurfacing is a relatively new method of skin rejuvenation in which the targeted areas of the skin are precisely speaced out at a microscopic level, leaving some skin perfectly intact while other zones are heat treated.  The efect is visually comprable to the pixels in digital images, as th etiny spots of treated skin replace old, destroyed cells with new, healthy ones.  The untreated areas maintain the tissue's stability for quicker recovery.

Using this approach, fractional laser skin resurfacing treatments can utilize the intense energy of ablative or skin resurfacing lasers, while providing the greater safety and faster recovery time of lower energy, non-ablative laser treatments.  As a result, patients can undergo a relatively risk-free procedure, achieve their desired skin rejuvenation and not worry about scheduling numerous follow-up treatments associated with most of the low-energy laser options.

Because the light pulses are confided to narrow columns in the skin, much of the skin is left unaffected and there is a quick healing process.  Most people notice positive changes in skin tone and texture within a few days. 

Unlike other lasers, the fractional laser features a built-in cooling system that minimizes discomfort during treatment.  After treatment, you may experience redness, warmth, swelling or tightness in the treated area, which typically fades within a few hours of treatment.  The skin may have a pinkish tone for 5 to 7 days.  Generally, you can receive a treatment and go back to work or to other activities without any recovery time.

A series of treatments at 3 to 6 week intervals may be required to achieve the desired results.

How long Does it Take?

Fractional laser resurfacing can be a quick procedure. Even the largest areas take an hour or less to treat.  Listed below are approximate times for areas commonly treated with the fractional laser.

Face:  1 hour
Neck:  20 minutes
Chest:  35 minutes
Hands:  35 mintes