What is Profractional Resurfacing?
Profractional Resurfacing is a procedure done using Sciton laser technology which combines the results of ablative resurfacing with the short recovery time of a fractional laser treatment. Using this laser, a care provider can control the depth and intensity of the laser to treat signs of aging, uneven pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, scarring and stretch marks.
How does Profractional Resurfacing work?
Profractional Resurfacing is done with pinpoint precision. With the Profractional system, the specialist treats the damaged areas with light energy to heat small columns of skin. This leaves periodic channels of healthy tissue in between which activates the production of collagen and elastin. Because the entire surface is not treated by the laser, healing takes place much faster.
What areas of the body does Profractional Resurfacing treat?
Profractional Resurfacing is usually performed on the skin of the face and neck, but it can also be used on the hands and for scarring on other areas of the body.
What are the advantages of Profractional Resurfacing over other similar treatments?
Profractional Resurfacing is a onetime procedure that is much quicker than traditional laser surgery and the recovery time is shorter. It requires no anesthesia, and the pain is minimal. This process allows the doctor to adjust the treatments depending on the severity of the problem and the individual patient’s needs.
Who is a candidate Profractional Resurfacing for Procedure?
Any healthy adult man or woman can benefit from Profractional Resurfacing. People with active infections and those with autoimmune diseases should not receive this treatment. Diabetics are usually not good candidates but should discuss the possibility of Profractional Resurfacing with their doctor. Although studies have shown no contraindications for pregnant women, most choose to wait until after delivery for laser treatment.
How is Profractional Resurfacing performed?
Patients will probably be given a pill to take before the procedure to help them relax. Some specialists use a topical anesthetic on the face, but there are patients who prefer to have the treatment without this numbing solution. The eyes will be covered to protect them from the laser light. Then, the specialist will run the laser over small squares of skin to allow the heat energy to penetrate the surface. The patient may feel the face begin to heat, but it should not be uncomfortable. Some patients report a prickling of the skin. After the treatment area is completely covered, the doctor may apply cool compresses to prevent swelling. Sometimes, sterile dressings are applied, but this depends on the treatment area.
What is the recovery like?
Patients may immediately return to their daily schedule although doctors recommend staying out of the sun and away from heat for a couple of months. Most patients are given an antimicrobial cream to prevent infection, and can use ice packs to ease any discomfort. After several days the redness will fade, but the skin may peel as it heals.
What will the results be like?
Results are immediate and ongoing. Once the redness has disappeared, the patient’s skin will be toned and smooth. Discolorations will be evened out, and lines and wrinkles will be much less noticeable.
What are the risks?
Side effects are rare, but there will be some residual redness or swelling which should fade within days. Also, though unusual, all laser procedures carry a slight risk of infection or scarring. Pigmentation irregularities are also experienced by a small fraction of those who undergo Profractional Resurfacing.
Is Profractional Resurfacing approved for use in the U.S.?
This procedure is approved for use in the U.S. and has been successfully performed thousands of times.
Is Profractional Resurfacing covered by insurance companies?
Major insurance carriers rarely cover Profractional Resurfacing because it is a cosmetic procedure. Patients are often able to set up a payment schedule stretch the cost, ranging from an average of two hundred to two thousand dollars, over several months.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By SkinCareGuide.com Staff
Updated: November 24, 2009
