The Profractional resurfacing technique relies on a technique called “fractional” resurfacing that produces literally thousands of tiny, deep columns of treated tissue while leaving surrounded tissue untouched. It is this highly specific treatment technique that allows patients undergoing the Profractional resurfacing procedure to experience the same remarkable results of more rigorous treatments while experiencing far less discomfort and downtime. These tiny micro holes promote your skin’s natural healing process, encouraging the formation of new, healthy collagen to result in an overall more youthful and rejuvenated appearance while also reducing or eliminating damaged tissue caused by sun exposure, trauma, or the natural aging process.
What are the benefits of Profractional Resurfacing?
The Profractional resurfacing technique offers many advantages over traditional laser techniques, including:
• speedier treatment times
• speedier recovery
• minimal discomfort during the procedure
• minimal discomfort following the procedure
• no need for anesthesia
• pinpoint accuracy
• uniform results
• ability to be customized to each individual’s needs
How does Profractional Resurfacing differ from other laser resurfacing techniques?
Prior to the Profractional system, the types of lasers available for cosmetic procedures included ablative lasers and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers involve high temperatures, significant discomfort, and long recovery periods, but are effective in achieving overall results. Non-ablative systems have significantly less downtime and discomfort, but require multiple treatments to achieve significant effects. Fractional laser systems strive to achieve significant effects without the associated downtime and discomfort. What sets the Profrational system apart from other fractional systems is the system’s immediate removal of injured tissue. While fractional lasers treat tiny “micro-columns” of skin tissue to provide tiny areas of controlled injury, other systems leave the injured tissue in place, allowing it to slough off over time and resulting in irritation and discomfort. The Profractional system removes injured tissue during the treatment, resulting in speedier healing and less discomfort following the procedure.
Is Profractional Resurfacing an invasive procedure?
The Profractional resurfacing treatment is considered a minimally invasive procedure by most practitioners.
What does Profractional Resurfacing treat?
The Profrational system provides excellent treatment for:
• age spots
• sun damage
• uneven pigmentation
• wrinkles
• fine lines
• scarring
• uneven or rough texture
• stretch marks
How is Profractional Resurfacing performed?
Many patients undergo the Profractional resurfacing procedure without use of topical anesthetics, but your physician may decide to apply a numbing agent prior to the procedure, depending upon your wishes and individual needs. During the actual treatment, a special hand piece is passed over the treatment area, delivering columns of laser heat to tiny areas of the treatment zone. Most patients liken the procedure to a prickling sensation. In most individuals, the Profractional procedure can be performed in 15 to 45 minutes. This highly specific “controlled” damage removes and repairs damage while encouraging collagen to form, resulting in an overall firmer, more youthful appearance over time. You may also opt to combine your Profractional treatment with other procedures, such as micropeels or dermal fillers, to maximize your effect.
What type of results can be expected?
The results of your Profractional treatment will be evident immediately after your procedure, and will continue to improve during the weeks following the treatment as new collagen forms and skin appears firmer and revived. Skin texture will also be improved, and pores will be noticeably smaller. Optimal results are usually evident within 8 to 12 weeks following the Profractional procedure. To maintain your results, you should apply sunscreen and moisturizer regularly. Although the aging process will naturally continue, results can be maintained for years with good skin care, and some results, such as scar removal, are permanent.
How much does Profractional Resurfacing cost?
The cost of Profractional treatment will vary based on the size of the area being treated, generally ranging from $300 to $2,000 in most cases.
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 30, 2009
