The cosmetic process called profractional resurfacing is one that involves a laser aimed at the subdermal areas of the face and neck. With this kind of laser procedure, the laser is using heat energy to manipulate the areas under the skin in a specific way. Some doctors refer to profractional resurfacing as “boring out” the skin, because the laser actually creates small channeled “wounds” that generate a quick production of “healthy” elements collagen and elastin in nearby areas.
Every cosmetic surgery doctor has his own favorite kind of laser treatments and can explain why he would opt for a specific kind of laser for “resurfacing” or rejuvenating facial areas. Patients elect these treatments largely for cosmetic reasons, though some of them have to do with existing conditions.
Although it’s generally hard to prove medical necessity for profractional resurfacing procedures, many patients pay out of pocket for these cosmetic treatments in order to change the way their skin looks. Here are some of the main purposes of this kind of treatment for the patients who sign up for it.
Anti-Aging
Doctors frequently consult on the benefits of profractional resurfacing for combating the normal signs of aging in the face. Small lines and wrinkles can be “ironed out” with this procedure, where the promotion of collagen leads to tighter facial areas and less lines. Profractional resurfacing can also change other elements of the skin’s aging process including pigmentation.
Acne Treatment
Some patients with moderate to severe acne may be looking at profractional resurfacing to help deal with clogged pores in the skin and the damage that this causes. Doctors may talk about this treatment as part of a strategy for acne control. Generally, profractional resurfacing deals with the eventual scarring results of acne on the face.
Other Scarring
There are also other kinds of scarring for which a doctor might recommend profractional resurfacing to “remake” the surface of the skin for a more even result. It’s important for doctors to consult on scarring treatments on a case-by-case basis, since some patients have different vulnerabilities to laser treatments or other procedures based on the type and extent of scarring.
Sun Damage
Patients can also consult on the benefits of profractional resurfacing for sun damaged skin. As mentioned above, this kind of procedure can also deal with changing the pigmentation of skin, where different kinds of conditions result in aesthetic issues with pigmentation, i.e. localized areas of the skin being darker than the surrounding ones. This is one area where cosmetic surgery doctors often contemplate profractional resurfacing for evening out the hue of the patient’s skin, again, for a more “even” result.
Regardless of your purposes for seeking profractional resurfacing as a cosmetic surgery procedure, always talk to doctors about the possible risks, competitions and side effects of this kind of laser treatment. Make a list of known allergies and existing medical conditions or prescription medications you’re taking. Weigh the benefits and disadvantages of the treatment carefully before committing to this strategy for ongoing skin care.
