Good or Excellent Response
46%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate Response
81%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Side Effects
Low-Medium
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find a dermatologist or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a plastic surgeon.
Read All About Non-ablative Fractional Lasers
Compare To Other Treatments
5
12.9%
4
22.3%
3
30.2%
2
17.3%
1
17.3%

Used Non-ablative Fractional Lasers? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
April 3, 2007

Pros:

Deep scars. Noticed 10% improvement after only one fraxel treatent. One session treats 20%, so I wasn't expecting miracles. My skin looked healthy for the first time in years after the first. I plan to continue on.

Cons:

Of course, the price.

Try it once - at least. It's so clear that everyone has different results, so try it for yourself and see if it works for you. I have deep cheek scars and it appears to have put my skin on the right track. For me, it was a matter of - What else is out there that doesnt require a month of downtime?
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March 15, 2007
I had my first fraxel treatment four weeks ago. It didn't hurt. I was swollen for three days. I was red for four days then pink for two. I peeled but not excessively. I went in on a Friday. I was back at work on the Monday. I didn't bother with make up at all and didn't feel self concious about it. I guess it's a little like mild sunburn. My second treatment is tomorrow. I was told improvement would be visable from the 3rd or 4th treatment. then for a further 6 months afterwards. Although of course, you still cannot help but keep an eye on progress even after the first one. I have noticed a subtle change, but no-one else has. Scars are softer but still there, my cheeks have more colour (i'm very fair). I'm not sure what to expect after my second one tomorrow but will post the results when the redness goes down and i can see a true indication.
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January 20, 2007

Pros:

do not know yet

Cons:

the procedure is painful as far as it concerns me.

I had a fraxel laser treatment 2 dayes ago. my face is still red and swelling has subsided about 80 percent.doc said I need atleat 3-4 treatments. I am anxiously waiting to see the results. a pakage of 4 treatments cost me $3200 I will update you about my condition next week.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.