What is the ProFractional Laser?

ProFractional Laser by Sciton is an ablative laser that is customizable.  This means that we can treat the perioral area of the face aggressively and around the eyes with completely different settings.  Because this is a fractional laser it creates ablative channels in the skin, which allows for a faster recovery than a full-field ablative laser that removes 100 percent of the skin.  ProFractional Laser is what we used extensively before the Halo Hybrid Laser was introduced.  We still utilize this laser, but most patients benefit more from Halo with lesser downtime.

 

What does the ProFractional Laser treat?

• ProFractional really is our go to treatment to remodel scars anywhere on the body.
• Pigment
• Uneven tone and texture
• Pore size
• Induces collagen and elastin
• Fine lines and wrinkles

 

What areas of the body does ProFractional Laser treat?

The typical treatment includes the entire face and neck.  However, for scars we can treat anywhere on the body.

 

Is the treatment painful and how long will it take to complete?

Compared to our newer laser Halo, yes this is a more painful treatment.  I will typically prescribe medication to be taken during the procedure.  If we are only treating a small area or scar it is a very simple procedure to complete.  If we are treating the entire face and neck it can take 45 minutes, sometimes a little longer to complete.

 

How many treatments do I need?

• Scarring: Typically, 1 to 3 treatments will be required.  For more extensive scarring processes more treatments may be needed.
• Corrective treatment to help even tone, improve texture, reduce pore size, and improve fine lines and wrinkles typically a series of three treatments provides the best results.

 

What is my recovery like?

• Scarring: There will be some pinpoint bleeding and swelling for a few days.  Vaseline and non-adherent dressings are all that will be needed.
• Corrective treatments will have a longer recovery that include 24 to 48 hours of pinpoint bleeding, swelling, and occlusive ointments for several days. The entire recovery time is typically 7 to 10 days based on the aggressiveness of the treatment.

 

How to I decide between Halo Laser and ProFractional Laser?

The best thing to do is have a complimentary consultation with our laser expert.  However, below is a general grid of some of the differences between the two lasers.