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Get your glow back with a Fraxel laser treatment

By: Austin-Weston

8/12/2019

what is fraxel

Do you long for the days when your skin was free of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and sun damage? While there are plenty of lotions, serums, and other products on the market that claim to help you turn back the hands of time, few can deliver the type of truly transformative results that patients in Northern Virginia desire. Fraxel laser treatments are different. By producing carefully controlled micro-injuries to the skin, the body is sent into repair mode. Its collagen production level is boosted to restore a healthy, youthful glow. The plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA explain more about the revolutionary Fraxel re:Store system, which is used to treat numerous bothersome skin concerns.

What are Fraxel laser treatments?

This noninvasive form of skin resurfacing employs a fractional laser, the beam of which penetrates the top layer of the skin not only on the face, but also the hands, chest, and neck. As its name suggests, Fraxel lasers create thousands of precise microscopic perforations on a fraction of the skin. These tiny injuries impact the layer of skin where fine lines, brown spots, discoloration, and uneven texture are present. The tissue around the treatment area remains unscathed as the damaged skin cells are pushed out. This allows new skin cells to be created. Up to 20% of damaged skin can be replaced during a single treatment session. The small injuries to the skin, as well as heat created by the laser, jumpstart the body's natural healing process, causing it to ramp up the production of collagen and elastin. These are building blocks of the skin which help to maintain its firmness and elasticity. As a result, wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars are smoothed, brown spots and other discolorations resulting from sun damage are improved or eliminated, and the overall tone and texture of the skin can be improved. In general, men and women in the Northern Virginia area who undergo safe and effective Fraxel laser treatments may experience fewer risks and faster healing, as well as less downtime than with traditional laser treatments.

Are you a Fraxel laser candidate?

Most men and women in Northern Virginia who are in good health, are experiencing fine lines, skin discoloration, scarring, uneven texture and other signs of aging, may be considered good candidates for Fraxel laser treatments at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery. Unlike other laser treatments, the use of Fraxel lasers usually is safe for all skin colors and types. As with any cosmetic procedure, patients should be able to set and maintain realistic expectations for the outcome of their treatment. While it can work to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots, the procedure does not reshape the face. Your complexion will look healthy and rejuvenated. Northern Virginia patients who are pregnant or undergoing chemotherapy should not have Fraxel laser treatments. Also, those with medical conditions that interfere with proper blood flow or wound healing should know that it may take longer for their skin to recover. Patients who smoke should quit several weeks before their procedure. Not only does this habit speed the aging process, but it also is known to impede the body's ability to quickly heal.

The Fraxel procedure explained

At Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, located in Reston, VA, our skilled plastic surgeons will review your medical history, conduct an examination of the area targeted for Fraxel laser treatment, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Every effort is made to help patients feel comfortable and relaxed before their outpatient procedure, which usually can be completed in less than two hours. Your eyes will be covered to protect them from the powerful laser light and a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the skin. The handheld Fraxel re:Store wand is gently passed over the treatment area. Patients may experience a slight prickling or warm sensation, however, this should be temporary. Cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medications may be used following your procedure to alleviate any residual discomfort.

What will my recovery be like?

It is common for patients in Northern Virginia to experience some minor swelling and redness for several days following their Fraxel laser treatment. However, no significant downtime is required. The treated area may appear to to take on a sunburned-like appearance. It is important to avoid direct sun exposure and wear sunscreen after treatment as the skin will be sensitive. No harsh skin care or acne products should be applied for at least one week. Also, do not exfoliate the skin during this time. Only a gentle cleanser should be used along with a moisturizer twice daily. Crusts will form on the skin and peel off in time. Refrain from picking at your skin as this will increase the appearance of redness and prolong the healing process. A week after treatment, the skin may still appear flaky and slightly pink, however, makeup can be used to camouflage areas of concern.

What kind of results are expected?

A revolutionary treatment used to correct the effects of aging and damage to the skin, most patients start to see results from their Fraxel laser treatment soon after their session. Typically, 3-5 sessions are needed to experience optimal results. When pigment is being targeted, it is possible to see an improvement within one or two sessions. However, it may take up to five sessions, spaced about a month apart, to diminish or eliminate the appearance of wrinkles or acne scars. One of the most effective anti-aging procedures available, the results of Fraxel laser treatments typically are long-lasting. They may be further enhanced by following proper skin care methods. Typically, the optimal results of the treatment can be experienced about six months after your session.

Are you ready for younger-looking skin?

Don't let wrinkled, sun-damaged skin prevent you from looking your best. Less-invasive Fraxel laser treatments can reverse the effects of aging by removing the top layer of skin to reveal the fresh, rejuvenated skin beneath. It also improves collagen production to help maintain a youthful firmness and glow. Schedule an appointment with the plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA and get on your way toward enjoying a more luminous complexion.

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