Definition and objectives

This is a new type of laser method used to treat changes in the skin’s surface, in other words crow’s-feet, coarse skin, dilated pores and scars. The neck, decolletage and hands can also benefit from this type of treatment. This procedure leads to regeneration of skin damaged by ageing, smoking and pollution. The following two types of laser are available: CO2 fraxel laser and Pixel or Erbium Yag fraxel laser.

Prior to surgery

Facial rejuvenation treatment specific to each person will be offered based on:

Skin analysis in terms of:

- skin type and quality,

- degree of skin alteration due to the sun,

- cutaneous elasticity,

- pigment and vascular lesions,

- toxic status (refer to exposure to smoking/UV/pollution and lifestyle),

- dermatological check-up to screen for precancerous or skin cancer conditions,

Other parts of the body (hands, decolletage…) are also examined.

A combination of techniques:

- IPL, mesotherapy, radiofrequency, peeling and LED.

Repair principles:

- re-establishment of the dermis’ physiological function,

- reduction in free radicals (which cause cell damage and lesions),

- absence of side effects.

Desired result.

This overall treatment plan leads to a harmonious and long-lasting result.

The procedure

The two techniques used treat the various skin layers by allowing energy to penetrate through small microscopic wells. Skin remains intact between the abrasion zones and this allows rapid healing without a dressing. The session lasts 10 to 30 minutes. The treatment is painless and at the most an anaesthetic cream is applied.

After-effects

- With Pixel or Erbium Yag fraxel laser, the after-effects are straightforward: the patient has a sensation similar to sunburn and redness which disappear within 48 hours. Skin is very dry and « papery » for 5 to 6 days.

- With CO2 fraxel laser, redness lasts longer. The patient must avoid exposure to the sun and use a total sun block cream. If the patient has a history of herpes, anti-herpes treatment will be given.

The patient can resume normal activities (professional and sports) one week after surgery.

Result

The result is visible from the first treatment and, depending on the individual case, 2 to 4 sessions will be needed with intervals of 15 to 21 days between sessions.

The effect of laser treatment lasts 5 years.

Possible complications

Fraxel techniques (refer to CO2 fraxel laser and Pixel or Erbium Yag fraxel laser) are both less damaging than first-generation lasers, in other words they are totally painless techniques, limit the side effects and avoid complications inherent to CO2 or Erbium Yag lasers. The risk of scarring and pigmentation problems are also avoided.