1) What is Fraxel re:pair?
Fraxel re:pair is a laser-based procedure which treats conditions that penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, reducing or eliminating scars, wrinkles, and deep discoloration while also tightening loose, sagging, aging skin. The system provides deeper penetration and results of more invasive procedures, while involving much less downtime than more invasive procedures.
2) What are the benefits of Fraxel re:pair?
Fraxel re:pair offers:
• Faster treatment than comparable systems
• Less risk than with other CO2 lasers
• Can be used for both superficial and deep damage
• Tightens skin, as well as repairs damage
• Precise application
• Varying energy levels allows treatment to be tailored to specific, individual needs
3) How does Fraxel re:pair differ from Fraxel re:store?
Fraxel re:pair is a deeper procedure, treating more significant wrinkling, lines, discoloration, and sun and age damage than Fraxel re:store. Fraxel re:pair also tightens skin, resulting in a firmer end result. Because it treats more significant damage, the re:pair procedure also involves a longer recovery time – generally up to a week - than is incurred with the re:store procedure.
4) Is the Fraxel re:pair technique an invasive procedure?
The Fraxel re:pair technique is considered a minimally invasive procedure, in that no incisions are made in the skin, as with a traditional facelift-type procedure. The laser is passed over the surface of the skin, and the laser energy penetrates the skin to correct damage and result in controlled damage, which actually helps skin appear firmer over time.
5) What results can you expect from the Fraxel re:pair?
Immediately following treatment, men and women will undergo a healing period which will involve two to three days of redness, swelling, and in some cases, oozing from the treated areas. There will also be considerable redness, and may be some crusting. After a week, patients should be able to resume their normal activities, and any residual redness can be covered with makeup. The overall results from the Fraxel re:pair procedure are long-term, persisting for years after treatment, and have been likened to results achieved by some facelift techniques. In addition to the reduction or elimination of wrinkling, discoloration, and other cosmetic damage, your skin will appear tighter, firmer, and more toned, and because Fraxel procedures encourage collagen development, your skin’s tone will continue to improve for weeks and even months after initial treatment.
6) Should I get Fraxel re:pair treatment in conjunction with other laser resurfacing techniques?
Because Fraxel re:pair can treat all types of cosmetic damage at different depths, it is considered a “one-stop shop” for laser resurfacing, and should meet most patients’ expectations. The procedure can be combined with other procedures, including Thermage and injectable filler procedures, to achieve what some practitioners term a “non-surgical facelift.”
7) What type of after care is needed to sustain the results?
Immediately after the procedure, as the healing phase begins, you will need to follow specific guidelines to make sure you see the results you’re looking for, including:
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Using ice packs to minimize swelling
• Keeping your head elevated when sleeping to reduce swelling
• Applying special lotions to keep the area moist and promote healing
• Keeping your hands washed to prevent infection when you touch the treated area
For the long term, sunscreen and moisturizers should be used with regularity to maintain and prolong the results of your treatment.
8) What is the cost of Fraxel re:pair?
The cost of Fraxel re:pair treatment will vary, based on the extent of the area being treated, generally ranging from $2000 to $7000 in most individuals.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: June 24, 2009
