What is Fractional Laser? What are the differences from other applications?
Fractional laser; It is a reliable method that is one step ahead of all other methods in eliminating wrinkles, facial blemishes, acne scars and facial rejuvenation. Its definite effect, noticeable results even in one go, rapid recovery, low risk and the fact that it can even be used instead of some surgical methods have caused it to be considered as the "Gold Standard". The fact that its effect is permanent also increases its preferability. Depending on the application reasons, Peeling methods, PRP applications, other laser and IPL procedures, facial rejuvenation fillers lag far behind Fractional CO2 in terms of permanence and results.
CO2 Laser (Carbon dioxide laser): It is the world's most deeply effective scar and wrinkle treatment method, other than surgery. While it is quite deep and effective, it can also be used to eliminate superficial disorders. Therefore, in the last few years, with the revolutionary technological developments in the field of "Cosmetic Laser Dermatology", very successful results have begun to be achieved with the use of Ultrapulse Fractional CO2 Lasers.
In Which Areas Can FR CO2 Laser Technology Be Used?
In recent years, CO2 laser technology has made significant progress in the treatment of acne scars, scars, burn scars, facial and neck wrinkles, and produces surprising results with new developments every day.
What is Fractional Technology? What are the benefits?
"Fractional CO2 laser" has been developed, which reduces the side effects of the CO2 laser treatment method, which is considered the most effective of non-surgical methods, to almost zero. In fractional technology, the laser beam is structured in a way that affects the depth of the skin with many micron-sized beams (for example, 50 in 1 cm2) instead of a single wide beam. The distance between these beam points and the skin impact depth can be adjusted according to the person's needs. Presence of intact skin areas between the points accelerates healing and prevents undesirable effects. The frequency of the points determines the amount of tension in the tissue. The frequency, depth and duration of the points are adjusted according to the needs of the person's skin, that is, according to the purpose of the application (acne, wrinkles, looseness of the facial skin, blemishes). To ensure these adjustments and maximum effect, CO2 laser technology was developed and ULTRAPULSE laser devices were produced. All of the advantages I mentioned above cannot be achieved with every CO2 laser device. With its ultrapulse feature, the damage that the laser beam can cause to the skin is minimized and the patient's recovery time is significantly shortened. For this reason, the transition from the conventional (classic) form of the CO2 laser device to Fractional CO2 Laser devices and then to the latest version Laser devices with Fractional Ultrapulse CO2 features, there are significant differences between them in terms of recovery time, pain formation, complications (undesirable effects) and success achieved.
1- Skin Rejuvenation: It is arguably the most effective method in removing wrinkles and lines on the face, eyelids, neck and décolleté areas, which is called facial rejuvenation and appears mostly due to aging and the effect of the sun. Wrinkle problems are common, especially in people with thin and dry skin, and these wrinkles are largely eliminated with CO2 laser treatment.
2- Acne and Scars: Acne are scars that affect the upper layer of the skin. They can be superficial and deep. These scars appear especially after acne treatment, that is, after the acne disappears, and appear as slight pits and depressions. Superficial acne scars can often benefit from superficial skin peeling methods such as chemical peels. However, advanced treatment of acne scars is possible with fractional laser.
What are the changes in the skin as a result of Fractional CO2 (carbon dioxide) Laser?
After CO2 laser application, there is a sudden shortening of 20-30% in the subcutaneous collagen fibers. In the next 1-6 months, new collagen formation under the skin and rearrangement of the subcutaneous connective tissue occur. As a result of all these, skin tightening, which is called skin rejuvenation, and a significant reduction in dimples, wrinkles, spots and scars on the skin occur. The pores on the skin narrow and the skin structure looks like it did 10 years ago.
FR CO2 Laser application method and frequency, recovery time
Fractional Laser application is not a very painful procedure. Very minor needle sticks occur during application.
How long does it take to see results in fractional laser applications?
In the patients I call for a check-up at the end of the first week, a great improvement, pinkness and liveliness are seen even in the first week. In fact, it takes up to 2 months for healing effects to occur after fractional laser applications. The formation of collagen and the development of new collagen continues for a few more months, but despite this, great results are seen even in the first week.
In which months is it appropriate to apply fractional laser?
The disadvantage of fractional laser is that it cannot be applied in summer and sunny seasons. It is a method that can be widely used in our country in the autumn, after September and October.
How long does fractional laser applications take?
Depending on the width of the application area, it takes around 30-45 minutes considering that we are doing the whole face.
Is anesthesia used in fractional laser applications?
After all, since it is an invasive procedure and a surgical laser, fractional laser applications are moderately painful procedures. To do this, we first apply pain-relieving creams to the patient, leave them for about half an hour, and then apply them after half an hour.
FR Which creams should I use after CO2 laser applications?
We recommend a number of creams to moisturize the skin after application and accelerate healing. These creams are applied 5-6 times a day. At the same time, it is necessary to protect it from the sun during this period. Of course, we also want sunscreen sunblock creams to be used.
Things to Consider Before Fractional Laser Application
If medications that prevent blood clotting (aspirin, heparin, etc.) and medications containing retinoids (isotretionin) are used, it may be necessary to take a break for a while. Before the application, no abrasive procedures such as dermabrasion or peeling should have been performed on the skin in the last few months. If the patient has a history of frequently recurring herpes, he/she must inform the doctor and take medication before the application.
Things to Consider After Fractional Laser Application
Immediately after CO2 Laser application, cold compresses should be applied to reduce pain, edema and redness. It is preferred to continue this application the next day. From the first day after the application, the skin should be kept moist and clean to prevent dryness that may occur on the skin. To start applying make-up, you should wait 3-5 days, depending on the person and application characteristics. Extreme heat (sauna), sweating and dusty environments should be avoided for the first few days after CO2 Laser application.
Depending on the patient's skin type and environmental conditions, it is very important to avoid exposure to the sun and use sunscreen for 2-4 weeks after the application. Skin peeling creams that have a peeling effect should not be used for about 1 month.
