What is the ProFractional Laser?
ProFractional laser is an innovative fractional treatment that ablates only a portion of the skin. The majority of the skin’s surface remains intact, decreasing side effects and the need for recovery time. ProFractional resurfacing uses a microbeam of narrow diameter to accomplish this minimally-ablative technique that allows patients to resume their normal activities more quickly without a significant decrease in positive results.
What can be treated with the ProFractional Laser?
This laser treatment can address several concerns simultaneously, including:
- Skin discoloration
- Sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scarring
- Traumatic or surgical scarring
- Poor skin tone or texture
- Collagen depletion
How does the ProFractional Laser work?
The ProFractional laser platform is an Erbium ablative laser that creates thousands of tiny pinpoints on the skin. This happens because the Erbium laser energy is attracted to the water in the skin. When the microbeam touches the skin, a point of ablation occurs. This happens at a precise depth that is determined by our consultation. Microabrasion can target up to 1500 microns deep. The points that are ablated during treatment are seen by the body as injuries. This sends an influx of collagen to heal and regenerate healthy new tissue. Because there are bridges of untouched tissue in between, healing occurs more rapidly. The entire process typically takes half an hour.
As the skin heals after ProFractional treatment, the infusion of healthy new collagen creates a tighter, smoother surface. Collagen remodeling continues for up to six months after the procedure, further enhancing rejuvenating effects over time.
Who should be considered for ProFractional treatment?
The ProFractional skin rejuvenating procedure is appropriate for many adults. Good candidates are healthy and free of skin infections at the time of treatment. Our skin expert conducts a thorough consultation and skin examination to ensure this treatment can achieve the desired outcome without unwanted side effects.
What areas can be treated?
This method of laser skin resurfacing can be performed nearly anywhere on the body. The most common treatment areas are those that have been exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, chest, and hands.
How many ProFractional Laser sessions will I need?
One of the benefits of ProFractional laser treatment is that the settings on the device can be adjusted to achieve a truly customized procedure. Depending on how deeply the microbeam delivers energy, a patient may achieve outstanding results with just one treatment session. However, some patients desire a more conservative approach and choose to extend their treatment to include several sessions.
What should I expect in terms of recovery?
Downtime can vary depending on the settings that are selected. More conservative ProFractional treatment can improve the texture and tone of the skin with only a few days of downtime. Treatments that target deeper layers of tissue may require 3 to 7 days of healing before returning to normal activities.
After ProFractional treatment, the skin may appear pink or red, depending on the strength of the laser. This resembles a sunburn. Patients will need to apply an ointment or cream to the skin a few times a day for a few days. It may be necessary to avoid wearing makeup for 3 to 4 days. It is also important to avoid sun exposure after laser skin resurfacing. Before going outdoors, patients should apply a zinc-based physical sunscreen to prevent photodamage.
Does ProFractional treatment hurt?
Patient comfort is important. A topical anesthetic may be applied for approximately 20 minutes before ProFractinal laser treatment. Additionally, we offer ProNox to patients undergoing various procedures. ProNox is a self-administered nitrous oxide (“sweet air”) technique that increases a person’s pain threshold and also decreases nervous response that may occur during treatment. Patients who have undergone ProFractional laser treatment describe it as mildly uncomfortable but tolerable.
How much does ProFractional treatment cost?
The cost of treatment can vary based upon the inclusion of adjunctive therapies or injectables, and the number of treatments a person needs to achieve their desired outcome at their preferred pace. The full details regarding ProFractional laser treatment, including cost, are discussed during our consultation visit.
Schedule A Consultation
We love helping our patients revitalize their appearance. For more information on ProFractional laser treatment, call our Long Island office at +1 631-801-7840 . We’re happy to schedule a consultation with one of our providers to get to know your needs.