What is Fraxel Dual Resurfacing treatment?
The latest generation of Fraxel lasers is the Fraxel Dual. The ‘Dual’ refers to the dual wavelength: Thulium for hyper-pigmentation and Erbium for fine line wrinkles and scars. If you have sun spots, age spots, moderate wrinkles, and/or acne scars, Fraxel Dual could be the solution for you. This fractional laser technology targets damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into your skin. This laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, leaving surrounding tissue intact. This promotes rapid healing by stimulating your body’s collagen production, replacing old, damaged cells with fresh, healthy skin!
How long does Fraxel Dual treatment take?
Fraxel Dual treatment usually takes around 1 hour, however, this time varies depending on the size of the area we are treating and how significant the damage is. When you come in for your treatment appointment, we will put a topical numbing gel on your face and let it set for 1 ½ hours. Also, we will give you medicine to help make your experience as comfortable as possible. Because of this, we ask that you arrange transportation. We can not give you medicine if you do not have a driver to take you home. After the numbing gel and medicine has completely taken effect, your treatment will begin and will last approximately 1 hour. As soon as the treatment is completed, we will clean off your face and then you may go home. Your entire visit with us during your treatment appointments will be around 3 hours. As far as your entire treatment plan, you will come in approximately every 6 weeks. The amount of treatments in a plan varies depending on your skin’s condition but most patients start with a 4 treatment plan.
How many treatments will I need?
The amount of treatments you will need depends on how significant your skin damage is and we will need to see you for a consultation in order to determine your treatment plan and price for that plan. In general, most patients start with at least a 4 treatment package. A series of treatments is necessary to give you significant results. Fraxel Dual is not a one treatment fix and is designed to be a gradual process so that your skin can adjust and heal itself.
What parts of the body can Fraxel Dual treat?
Fraxel Dual can be used on the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, and even larger body parts such as the legs.
What kind of results can I expect?
After your Fraxel Dual treatment plan is completed, you can expect to have softer, brighter skin with a more even skin tone and improved texture. Brown spots and fine lines and acne scars will be reduced as well. Results from the treatment are progressive meaning the next 3-6 months following your treatment, you will notice more improvement as the deeper layers of the skin continue to heal. Results can last for years depending on your age and skin condition. Keep in mind sun exposure (especially without sunscreen) can affect your results negatively so you want to be sure and protect your investment.
What will I look like following the procedure?
You will experience redness and swelling after the procedure, resembling a significant sunburn. This usually subsides around day 3. Over the next several weeks, you will experience flaking and peeling of the skin. This is a good thing! This means it is working!
Does Fraxel Dual hurt?
Fraxel Dual is performed in-office. Our patients are given oral pain medicine and topical anesthetic to minimize any discomfort. Additionally, the Fraxel Dual is enhanced by a chiller device to help cool and reduce swelling during the procedure. You will feel an increased sensation of heat but it is not necessarily painful. Some of our patients even fall asleep during the treatment. We are sure to make it as comfortable as we can for you.
Who performs the Fraxel Dual procedure?
Our extensively trained RN’s perform the procedure.
Can I get a Fraxel Dual treatment instead of a facelift?
Fraxel Dual can resurface damaged skin but it will not offer the dramatic results of a facelift. Fraxel Dual is wonderful to use before or after a facelift to give you maximum improvement of your facial appearance. We usually set patients up with an initial evaluation by one of our RN’s to evaluate your skin and determine if Fraxel Dual might be effective for you. This evaluation is free. You will meet Dr. Tim R. Love, MD before proceeding with a treatment plan and that consultation fee is $100. You may contact us at 405-751-LOVE (5683) or contact us to set up your evaluation.