Fractionated Ablative Laser Resurfacing in Calgary

Fractionated Ablative Laser Resurfacing is a versatile and powerful treatment that addresses a variety of skin concerns, including acne scars, fine wrinkles, deep lines, uneven texture and skin tone, dullness, and skin laxity. It can rejuvenate not only the face but also the eyelids and neck, providing tightening and revitalization. Additionally, there is growing evidence that fractionated lasers may help prevent skin cancer and treat sun damage, and it can even be used in select cases as part of non-surgical treatments for certain skin cancers. It is one of Dr. Lewinson's favorite treatments to offer patients in Calgary, as it yields impressive results that blends aesthetics with an investment into long term skin health and skin cancer prevention.

Fractionated ablative laser resurfacing gets its name because the laser beam is "ablative" (i.e., it destroys the tissue), and it is "fractioned" into multiple smaller beams, creating microthermal treatment zones separated by healthy skin. These intact areas of skin promote healing of the damaged areas, reducing downtime, and lowering risks compared to traditional fully ablative resurfacing, which is now rarely performed. Despite its gentler approach, fractionated resurfacing still delivers remarkable results.

Comparing CO2 and Erbium:YAG Lasers

The two primary lasers used for fractionated ablative resurfacing are:

• CO2 Laser (10,600nm): Delivers deeper penetration and more significant thermal effects, making it suitable for severe scars, very deep lines and wrinkles, and significant laxity. However, it requires longer recovery and carries a higher risk of complications.

• Erbium:YAG Laser (2940nm): Highly precise targeting with minimal heat diffusion, making it ideal for more superficial resurfacing treatments like mild-to-moderate acne scars, texture improvement, mild-moderate skin laxity, or eyelid and neck tightening. It’s also much safer for darker skin types and offers faster healing.

Erbium lasers are also used in fractionated laser-assisted photodynamic therapy (PDT), where they enable deeper penetration of a photosensitizing agent to enhance skin cancer prevention and deliver superior cosmetic results.

In contrast, CO2 laser’s collateral thermal effects can be advantageous for non-surgical treatment of selected skin cancers, as deeper ablation increases the likelihood of destroying cancerous tissue.

Risks and Expected Outcomes

While fractionated ablative laser resurfacing is highly effective, it carries some risks. Commonly patients will experience short-term swelling post-procedure, and some residual skin redness which fades in the first few weeks. Less common risks include dyspigmentation, and rarely scarring or infection. These latter risks are less common with Erbium lasers compared to CO2 lasers, and when performed by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Lewinson.

Healing time varies by laser type:

• Erbium Laser: Healing typically takes 1–2 weeks.

• CO2 Laser: Recovery may take slightly longer due to deeper treatment.
  

For both laser types, patients generally notice significant rejuvenation, with improvements in skin texture, even skin tone, elasticity/stiffness, and overall appearance within a few weeks, with continued enhancement as collagen production increases over the following months. Importantly, fractionated ablative laser also provides long term benefits in terms of sun damage treatment and may contribute to skin cancer prevention. Repeat treatments with fractionated ablative lasers are possible.

Preparing for Treatment

To optimize outcomes, Dr. Lewinson may recommend a pre-treatment program to reduce risks and improve healing, which may include topical skincare such as retinoids or hydroquinone, or may include novel stem-cell factors such as Exosomes to prime the skin for the procedure. On the day of the procedure, topical numbing is used to ensure the treatment is well tolerated.

Immediate Post-Care

Immediately following the procedure, the skin will appear red and slightly swollen. In the following days, it may appear raw, similar to a burn. This is normal! In the first few days following the treatment, Dr. Lewinson advises:

• Gentle cleansing with dilute vinegar soaks to prevent infection.

• Applying liberal petroleum jelly or other barrier products as advised by Dr. Lewinson.

• Avoiding unapproved skincare products until the skin heals.

• Dr. Lewinson may also recommend prophylactic medicines as a precaution against infection depending on the patient and procedure.

  
  

For enhanced healing and results, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can be applied immediately after treatment to stimulate collagen production and speed recovery.

Optimizing Outcomes

Once the skin has healed over (re-epithelialized), there are several actions that can be taken to optimize your results. Dr. Lewinson recommends:

• Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (ideally tinted) once the skin barrier is restored.

• Avoiding significant sun exposure for at least 4 weeks (over and above the usual sun care precautions!).

• Ensuring an optimized skin care regimen that ideally includes a retinoid (use the FREE All Skin app to find a routine tailored to your skin!)

• If the resurfacing procedure was in part for sun damage treatment and skin cancer prevention, adhering to ongoing monitoring and maintenance with Dr. Lewinson is essential.
  

Fractionated Ablative Laser Resurfacing in Calgary - Is it Right for You?

Choosing the right candidate and treatment plan is essential for achieving optimal results and minimizing risks. That’s why it’s critical to see a board-certified dermatologist with not only clinical expertise, but also detailed understanding of laser physics to customize treatments. With board certification in dermatology and a PhD in engineering, Dr. Lewinson provides a unique approach to laser therapy, ensuring safe and precise treatment.

Whether you’re seeking to address acne scars, fine lines, or sun damage, or to invest in skin cancer prevention, Fractionated Ablative Laser Resurfacing offers a customizable solution to rejuvenate and protect your skin. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lewinson to explore your options and take the next step toward healthier, more radiant skin.