Scar Treatments

Possible Complications

Complications of Fractional Laser Resurfacing are rare. Mild blistering, especially on the chin and temples may occur at higher powers and densities, which will typically heal normally. Scarring from the procedure is virtually unknown. Hyper-pigmentation may occur in darker skinned patients, or patients prone to discoloration. Such patients can be pre-treated with bleaching agents to minimize any tendency towards discoloration. Patients with a history of lip blistering are treated with antiviral medications just before, and for a week after treatment. Fractional lasers very rarely cause an outbreak of acne, the cause of which is unknown.

Unlike “traditional” or ablative laser resurfacing, Fractional Laser Resurfacing may be used safely on areas other than the face. One of the most exciting applications of Fractional Laser Resurfacing is for striae (stretch marks”). A recent pilot study of 20 patients showed great improvement in the appearance and texture of mature (white) striae after three treatments performed at moderate settings. Redness in the treated areas does seem to persist longer than on the face, but fades in time.

Fractional laser resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment for the appearance of sun damaged and wrinkled skin and acne scarring. The procedure has an excellent safety profile, with minor blistering being very uncommon, and scarring virtually unknown. A lifetime of aggressive sun protection is paramount in maintaining the improvement for this and other skin procedures.

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