Non-ablative Fractional Lasers
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Side Effects

Non-ablative lasers are less invasive but also less effective than ablative lasers. Non-ablative fractional lasers shine a focused beam of light at the...

Non-ablative lasers are less invasive but also less effective than ablative lasers. Non-ablative fractional lasers shine a focused beam of light at the skin in a fractional (dot-matrix) pattern, leaving the skin intact, while stimulating collagen and elastin production over time.

This procedure is normally repeated 4 times (3 or more) in 4-week intervals, and you should see gradual results with each session. And after your last session, your skin should continue to improve.

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23%
3
30.4%
2
17%
1
17.8%

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July 26, 2007

Pros:

So far my skin seems to have subtly softened in its appearance. The scars are not as harsh in natural lighting. The laser itself was tolerable (but both times I took a Vicodin).

Cons:

After this second Fraxel, I broke out with tiny white heads on the chin area. I am hoping that will not cuase further scaring.

My scars are superficial, and I have not seen as much improvement as I hoped. I thought the results would show up quick, since the scars are not deep, but its been so subtle. I would say the price is not worth it, unless you can work out a deal with your Doctor. I was used as a model and my total cost was 300 per treatment (for my lower face). You might also try the V-beam or several microdermabrasions. A suggestion if you are going to do Fraxel and are a female, schedule it a few weeks after your period (less chance of having a nasty breakout from the trauma of the laser to the skin). Also you might try Burdock, a natural herb that helps to cleanse the blood, and aid in healthy skin.
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July 14, 2007

Pros:

30% improvement

Cons:

sort of expensive, five fraxel treatments $4,800.

I've had acne since the age 12 and through my teens....I had profound scars on both cheeks...I'm now 29 years old and still continue to break-out....especially underneath my chin and chest....I've used Accutane and minocycline...the medication helped but now that I've stopped I continue to break-out occassionaly. I decide to have five fraxel treatments.....its been about a month since my last treatment and have noticed some improvement especially on my cheeks...you still can notice the scars but they do not look as profound....after I apply make-up my scars are actually less visible. I knew that fraxel was not going to make miracles for me but I can actually say that I'm content with my treatment. The doctor mentioned that it will be about six months to see the final results on my treatment. I will keep you posted.
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July 4, 2007

Pros:

Skin looks alot better, scars have definatley softened and this is just my second treatment

Cons:

Swollen for at least 3- 4days broke out a little and really red

I ve had a total of 2 treatments so far and the results are evident. I can also completley agree w/ oregon comments on the agressivenes the doctor needs to have on treating the area.I notice the intensity my doctor uses when going over the more severe scarring.And I know thats going to impact the outcome of my results. And so far its looking as though their is a light finally at the end of the tunnel.And Im excited!!!
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June 29, 2007

Pros:

Really evened out my skin tone and minimized post acne redness. Made a significant difference in my scaring. I feel human again and don't have to constantly make excuses for my skin:)

Cons:

You are swolen and red for many days after treatment...don't believe the "no down time"...you won't feel sick but you won't want to go anywhere...I call that down time. You need 4-5 treatments minimum and at $950 a pop it really adds up.

I had 5 fraxel laser treatments and can say that I am very glad I did. The fraxel really helped with discoloration and my scars are significantly smaller. They also say I will have up to a year of further healing so I am hoping for even better results. My skin is definitely not perfect, but the difference the fraxel made is quite remarkable. Everyone is commenting on how good my skin looks... My doctor was very aggressive with the treatment. For anyone who is considering this procedure for scarring, I would ask the md the levels they will put you at. My doctor had me at the max levels okayed by the FDA. I know this is why I've had such a positive result. My sister did the same procedure with someone else who was not as agressive and she is not happy with her results at all. My doctor says that it is the depth and density that make a difference. Bottom Line: don't bother unless your doctor is willing to go deep!
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May 19, 2007

Pros:

Short down time, pleasing smoothing effect, reduction in scars, evening of pigment, best laser besides the Co2 Yag lasers, but those require significant downtime and a skilled doctor!

Cons:

Painful, needs several treatments, expensive (though here in Canada its cheaper than USA) If you are near Vancouver, BC, look up Arbutus Laser Center.

Recommended: 4-6 spaced out min. time alowed. Wait 10-12 months then do another round. Skin continues to improve for 6+ months. Results: NON-SCARRED AREAS - Dramatically smoothed, pigment evened out, melasma dramatically reduced. Years off your face. SCARS: Varies for TYPE/POSITION of scar. Scars in fattier tissue (e.g. cheeks)and deep pits are hardest to treat. However, the smoothing effect can be dramatic, but never expect 90-100% improvement. Your skin will NEVER go back to how it was in your pre-acne days. But with realistic hopes, you may be pleased with the fraxel. I have light/mild scarring which has been quite improved over 2+ years of treatment now using fraxel, s and v-beam. For people with more severe scarring, expect less overall improvement and more time/treatments to achieve effects. May also want to consider Erbium/CO2YAG lasers. Research your doctor! I also recommend therapy - it helps! And stay out of the sun! And stay out of dimly lit
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May 3, 2007

Pros:

Almost no down time, look pretty good the next day, has a lot of promise for acne scars. Good alterative to other lasers. No need for perception meds, I think it is great!

Cons:

You can be really red afterwards, but it will dissipate after a few days. The Cost!

Everyone is different, so the results will not be the same for all people. You need to be patience, results are progressive and can take up to six months to see the full affect. If you really want to try it, save up, it is not cheep! I think this can help a lot of people, but you need to find a good doc, and read as much infomation you can get. Best to all. :)
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April 26, 2007

Pros:

after 7 treatments I have had around 50-60 percent improvement on most scars.

Cons:

does not close up pores, the price, not sure if a deep erbium is better since it is not as safe I guess but all at once and waiting 2 weeks to heal is almost better than 5 days to heal each month

worth it
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March 25, 2007

Pros:

second treatment with fraxel. can't tell if its wishfulness or reality..but i think my rolling scars look better. face gets puffy and dry. but it has minmized pores...made skin smoother

Cons:

cost. and still not sure how much it has help my acne scars yet.

worth a try....if you have the money
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March 19, 2007

Pros:

Easy recovery time

Cons:

Price

I had c02 abot 12 years ago and saw a fair amount of improvement in my skin. I decided after careful consideration to pursue Fraxel treatments. I have rolling scars which apparently respond well. After the first treatment, I did not notice much improvement. My derm had warned me not to expect much. I had my second last week and can already notice a marked improvement. I can't wait for my third. They are becoming more aggresive with each treatment. I had little discomfort with treatment 1, but I did breakout and swell considerably.My Dr said it was because of ointment used afterward. This time, I felt it more but cleared up quickly and did not swell as much. The doctor feels that post treatment ointments may contribute to swelling.My family is noticing a difference in my skin already. I really am anxious to have it done again. I recommend people be patient with this treatment. It works.
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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.
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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.

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  • 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:

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  • 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.
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