Since the 1990’s Carbon Dioxide or CO2 laser resurfacing has been the gold standard for non-surgical facial renewal. This advanced technology has a proven safety record and produces optimal results to reduce wrinkles, lines, hyperpigmentation, age spots, and overall sun damage. Advancements in laser resurfacing technology have significantly reduced discomfort and recovery times. One such advancement is known as “fractional resurfacing”.
Dr. Manuel Peña explains to his skin rejuvenation patients that fractional resurfacing fractionates the laser beams into small beams allowing for the skin to be penetrated in tiny targeted microscopic zones. At Peña Plastic Surgery in Naples, FL, we offer the SmartXide DOT™ laser. As the name indicates, the laser beam makes small columns known as “dots” within the skin. Between these microscopic zones, there exists intact skin that was not affected by the laser. These untreated areas allow for faster recovery and healing compared to the traditional fractional CO2 laser alone. This means that you can return to work in a matter of a few days as opposed to weeks. The intensity of the treatment depends on the skin quality (lines and wrinkles), the thickness of the skin in the area being treated, and the desired result. There are 3 options for healing times: 3,5, and 7 days* depending on the depth of the “dots” and how far apart they are placed!
How Does the SmartXide DOT™ Fractional CO2 Laser Work?
The SmartXide DOT™ Therapy fractional CO2 laser precisely creates thousands of microscopic thermally treated zones, called DOTs in your skin. The DOTs target and repair wrinkles, pigmented lesions, sun and liver spots, sun damage, acne and scar tissue. The technology can also be used on the neck, décolleté, arms, hands and legs. The SmartXide DOT™ also induces skin tightening and stimulates new collagen.
The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the area(s) being treated. Patients rarely report a slight burning sensation. A numbing cream is applied to the treated areas approximately one hour before the treatment. With fractional skin resurfacing, the repeated laser action makes it possible to achieve results in one to three sessions.* Since the healthy surrounding tissues are protected, post-op recovery is typically shorter and simpler.
What Should I Expect After Treatment?
The majority of patients will experience crusting and some mild drainage for 2-5 days.* The area will be cleansed with a dilute vinegar and water solution and then a petrolatum ointment will be applied several times daily. The amount of downtime for each patient depends on the degree of intensity of each treatment. The application of a SPF 30 or higher as well as skin moisturizer is important for the first few months as the skin will be dry and photosensitive.
Our team is excited to help you look and feel your best. Contact our Naples, FL office today to schedule your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Manuel Peña. We look forward to welcoming you here at Peña Plastic Surgery.
*Individual results may vary. Consult with Dr. Peña to see if you are a candidate.