The Palomar fractional resurfacing technique is a type of fractional rejuvenation procedure which causes less downtime and less discomfort than other traditional and fractional lasers. Fractional resurfacing is a cosmetic rejuvenation technique which treats tiny areas of the treatment zone, creating individual columns of treated tissue, or “micro holes” while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected by the laser energy. The idea behind fractional laser systems is to achieve effective results while involving less downtime and discomfort than are experienced by non-fractional laser rejuvenation techniques. These tiny holes, or columns, stimulate the body’s natural healing process, resulting in the production of new, healthy collagen and an overall rejuvenated, firmer texture and appearance. The Palomar™ fractional skin resurfacing laser treats skin in the same selective manner, but its unique cooling wand results in less discomfort during the procedure, therefore requiring no anesthetic.
What are the benefits of Palomar fractional resurfacing?
The Palomar fractional laser offers several advantages over other systems, including:
• faster recovery times
• ability to treat areas with a high degree of precision
• ability to tailor treatments to an individual’s unique needs
• less discomfort during the procedure
• less discomfort during the recovery periods
• no need for anesthesia
• mild or no redness after the procedure
• multiple pulse settings allow for more comprehensive results in a single treatment
How does Palomar fractional resurfacing differ from other techniques?
Because the Palomar fractional resurfacing system creates tiny columns of treated tissue, there is no heat buildup as there is with traditional laser systems. Recovery is faster, and there is much less discomfort than with other laser procedures. The Profractional system also utilizes a special cooling tip, which is applied during the procedure to maintain an even temperature, cooling the treatment area and offering a greater degree of comfort during the procedure. There is also no need for topical or local anesthetic.
Is the Palomar fractional resurfacing technique an invasive procedure?
The Palomar fractional resurfacing technique is considered a minimally invasive procedure, restricting its controlled damage to deeper layers of the skin and causing minimal damage to the upper layers of tissue.
What results can you expect from Palomar fractional resurfacing?
Palomar fractional resurfacing techniques can erase or reduce age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, scars, and stretch marks, as well as treat the effects of sun exposure and aging, while also resulting in improved overall tone and texture of the treatment area. It’s an ideal rejuvenation treatment for the face, chest, neck, and hands. Initial results will be evident right after your procedure, with optimal results evolving over the following weeks as new collagen and healthy skin form to replace damaged areas. Many individuals achieve satisfactory results with just one treatment, but deeper damage, such as certain scarring, may require as many as three treatments. Your specialist will be able to design a treatment regimen to suit your needs and desired outcome.
What type of after care is needed to sustain the results?
Following treatment, you may notice some temporary redness or swelling which should resolve within a few hours. You may also experience slight flaking, which can be treated with a moisturizer. To maintain results for the long-term, you should follow a good skin care routine, which includes regular applications of sunscreen and moisturizer.
What is the cost of Palomar fractional resurfacing?
You can expect the costs of your Palomar laser resurfacing treatment to vary based on your location and on the size of the area being treated, with most procedures falling in the $600 to $2,000 range, with higher costs reflecting multiple treatments.
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.
Updated: June 30, 2009