Indications
The new fractional laser CO2 technology (Fraxel) aims to achieve the benefits of an invasive laser without the long recovery time it entails. The fractional laser has managed to solve the problems of the long recovery period of the old CO2 laser, while retaining its benefits in improving the skin.
How does it work?
The philosophy of the process is based on the fact that instead of affecting the entire skin and waiting for the healing to take place from the deeper layers of it, we intervene in very small areas, deep within the skin, in a way to create "microthermal therapeutic zones". The advantage in this case is that between these microthermal zones there is a healthy skin, which comes very quickly to cover these microscopic areas where we have had microscopic treatment with the fractional laser.
Recovery time
With the new method of fractional laser CO2, the skin usually peels off in 2-4 days. Then there is a slight redness that can be covered with make up. Make-up usually takes about 5-7 minutes until all traces of the application are completely eliminated. The patient does not need to be cut off from his activities.
What does the treatment correct?
This treatment aims to improve the texture of the face, that is, dull skin, stretched pores and generally uneven surface. It also improves the brown spots and creates a slight correction of loose skin by causing increased collagen rpoduction. Also, fine wrinkles are improved. Of course, it cannot replace lifting, which is still the solution for people who have severe skin laxity. In addition to this method we can remove unwanted discolorations and spots that are present throughout our body and especially in our hands. With 1 single session these usually disappear! Because treatment with this type of laser is safer, it makes it suitable for more sensitive areas such as the neck, chest, hands and many more. Also, because each session covers a certain percentage of the skin's surface (to stay healthy between the areas that will heal) and not its entire surface, a complete treatment requires 2-3 sessions at a distance which can be around 4-8 weeks. The results appear immediately, but the maximum improvement is usually seen after 2-3 months.
After treatment
The person receiving the treatment feels a warm feeling in the face for a few hours afterwards. The skin will be irritated and slightly swollen for the next day. You will need to apply an antibiotic ointment for 2-3 days to help peel the skin faster. The patients may appear in their social activities the next day. If the healing approach is chosen to be more intense, then it may take 2-3 days for this appearance, which is usually a weekend. This is, of course, by agreement, before the operation. The use of sunscreen (with a protective index of 50) and a cream which promotes skin healing, is essential for the next few days. The great advantage of fractional laser CO2, is that it can combine the effectiveness of an invasive laser with the main advantage of non-invasive lasers, which is immediate return to your activities.