Skin resurfacing is one of the most popular types of non-surgical rejuvenation we offer at Alexander Ereso Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. Using tried-and-true techniques and advanced technology, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Alexander Ereso, MD, has helped countless patients enhance the aesthetic quality of their skin with the treatments explained below.
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Fraxel® DUAL Laser Treatment
The Fraxel® Laser has been used for skin resurfacing for several years. This revolutionary innovation can allow the areas treated to exhibit better skin texture, more even pigmentation, less wrinkling and fine lines, and some degree of tissue tightening. In most cases, we feel it is the treatment of choice for age spots on the face and hands, as well as melasma and freckling. The procedure does not usually require extensive downtime, general anesthesia, or intravenous sedation, making it an ideal option for many San Jose and Bay Area residents.
The Fraxel® Laser treatment concept is ingenious. For every square inch of treated area, approximately 30-50% (or “fractions”) of the tissue is actually exposed to the laser light, which can produce heat and tissue changes to the deeper structures without injuring the skin surface. Most of the area surrounding the lasered tissue is left undisturbed, allowing for rapid healing and minimum downtime.
One of the most exciting aspects of this laser treatment is that almost any area of the body (most often the face, neck, chest, hands, or feet) can be treated. Another fabulous advantage of the Fraxel® Laser procedure is that skin of “all colors” may be treated (i.e. patients of Asian, Mediterranean, Hispanic, African-American, and Caucasian descent).
We ask that you arrive at the plastic surgery center one hour prior to your scheduled Fraxel® Laser session. A topical anesthetic will be liberally applied to the planned treatment areas and removed approximately 45 minutes later. The laser will then be used to thoroughly treat all of the planned areas.
You may feel some heat during the procedure, but this side effect can usually be minimized by a chilled spray. Iced compresses and elevation can also significantly reduce discomfort. Redness usually disappears in several hours but may last for one to three days. Normal activities may usually be resumed in less than 24 hours.
You should expect to see improvement in the texture, color, and fine lines in the treated areas over a period of one to three months. Clinical improvement may not be apparent until two to three treatments have been completed. The treatments are best if spaced at least four weeks apart.
Patient Results
Collagen P.I.N. Microneedling
Microneedling is another groundbreaking example of skin resurfacing. A very popular non-surgical option at practices around the world, microneedling can contribute to a healthier, brighter, more balanced complexion – especially when performed by a qualified physician. At Alexander Ereso Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, we proudly utilize the state-of-the-art Collagen P.I.N microneedling device, which is considered safe for virtually all skin types and well-known for its efficiency. After approximately three Collagen P.I.N microneedling sessions, many patients see a dramatic reduction in wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, and pores.
The procedure involves the application of tiny, sterile needles which gently penetrate the skin to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. These miniscule perforations (also called “micro-injuries”) in the skin are meant to boost the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen P.I.N microneedling can generally be performed anywhere on the body, namely the face, neck, arms, and décolletage.
To begin a Collagen P.I.N microneedling session, we will apply a topical anesthetic, which should mitigate any major discomfort during the procedure. The Collagen P.I.N device, which is equipped with either 12 or 36 adjustable needles, is then glided across the treatment area, creating multiple micro-channels in the dermis and epidermis. This process is designed to prompt the skin cells to regenerate, thereby creating newer, fresher tissue that can appear younger and softer.
The Collagen P.I.N microneedling treatment is considered minimally-invasive. As such, patients are typically able to resume their normal activities without the need for a recovery period. The skin may appear slightly pink or red immediately after the session, but this should fade within a few days.
While the results of Collagen P.I.N microneedling can be apparent for up to a year following the treatment, patients are usually encouraged to undergo three to six sessions for optimal effects. Please note, however, that the precise amount of necessary sessions will depend on the treatment area. These sessions are generally spaced four weeks apart.
If you would like more information about our skin resurfacing options, please do not hesitate to contact Alexander Ereso Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics.