Wrinkling of the facial skin is primarily due to a decrease in collagen production, an inability of the skin to retain moisture, and lessened structural support from the subcutaneous tissues. Damaged skin, whether caused by environmental factors or injury scarring, tends to replicate itself. Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is an effective treatment for patients who want to revitalize their skin without significant downtime.
Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing involves the use of a specialized CO2 laser device that produces a multitude of light shafts. The effect is similar to microneedling. “Fractional” is a term used to describe the means by which the treatment is administered. The laser beams penetrate the skin layers one at a time, creating controlled channels and leaving adjacent tissue unaffected. The body responds to these tiny channels by accelerating the production of healthy replacement tissue.
Client Consultation
When our clients bring us their concerns about facial skin wrinkling, we ask that they allow us to examine the facial features closely. We want to determine the cause of wrinkles, smile lines, and crow’s feet. These often occur where the skin is thinnest and is poorly supported from below.
If we determine that non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is a suitable treatment, we will design a customized treatment that can be scheduled around the client’s other activities. In most cases, a single treatment is sufficient to improve the appearance of fine wrinkles.
What to Expect During Treatment
We cleanse the treatable area thoroughly and may administer a topical anesthetic if requested. When we perform non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing, we use the state-of-the-art SmartSkin™ Fractional CO2 Laser. The laser is directed at the skin surface, and each pulse lasts only about a millisecond. The microscopic columns created by the pulses will first penetrate the epidermis and then the lower dermal layers.
After treatment, nutrients are rushed to the affected area. The healthy cells adjacent to the microchannels help by acting as a blueprint for the creation of replacement tissue.
A typical non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing treatment addressing problems in a localized area is usually completed in less than an hour. Once your treatment is finished, you can expect a much shorter downtime than you would with an ablative treatment.
Long-Lasting Results
The visual improvement is rather slow and steady. Increased collagen production will eventually result in smoother skin. Wrinkles will be far less noticeable. Most of our clients enjoy positive results lasting for up to a year or more.
Because the procedure is non-ablative, recovery is quite rapid. Unlike abrasive resurfacing, fractional laser treatments don’t scour the entire skin surface. The laser device can be calibrated for strength of light energy as well as the number of beams produced. Newer devices are suitable for treating individuals with darker skin tone.
Wrinkle-Free Skin Without Surgery
You don’t have to go under the knife to enjoy long-lasting results. It’s time to get rid of those annoying marionette lines and crow’s feet. We’ll show you how at Nicole Norris MD Medical Spa in Peru, IL. If you are in Ottawa, Princeton, or the surrounding area, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
