Pixel laser resurfacing or fractional laser skin resurfacing is a new technique of laser resurfacing using fractional ablative technology. It is used for rejuvenating skin that has been damaged by age and sun-exposure. The advantage this technique has over conventional laser resurfacing techniques is a shorter downtime and fewer side effects.
Unlike conventional skin resurfacing lasers that direct brief but intense bursts of laser energy at the skin, fractional skin resurfacing lasers direct their beam via micro-optical lenses that create pixel sized ablation dots on the skin. The effect is the same as with conventional lasers – the energy of the laser causes the water within the skin cells to vaporize and destroys the skin cells. The difference is in the micro pixels –since the energy of the laser is distributed between several pixels, the damage to the surrounding tissue is minimized leading to fewer complications and faster recovery.
Pixel laser resurfacing allows for much more precise control over the laser with much more accurate targeting of the damaged skin. The surgeon can control the area being targeted by the laser, from an area of 7x7 pixels to an area of 9x9 pixels. The depth of the penetration of the laser can also be controlled, allowing the surgeon to reach depths between 20 to 50 microns. Using the smaller area (7x7) means the energy of the laser is split between fewer pixels with each pixel receiving more energy, thereby allowing for greater penetration.
The technique allows the surgeon to limit the damage to carefully targeted zones on the skin surface and leaves the rest of the skin intact. Approximately 20% of the skin within the treatment area is treated and as a result the skin can heal much faster. In addition to this, the untouched tissue in the treatment zone helps fill in the damaged area with new cells, allowing for collagen remodeling, skin tightening and overall improvement in skin texture.
Pixel laser resurfacing can be used safely on areas where the skin is thin since the penetration of the laser can be more precisely controlled. This makes it suitable for removing wrinkles and blemishes not only on the face but also on the neck, hands and chest region.
The overall impact of the procedure can be gauged by studying pictures taken before and after a pixel laser resurfacing procedure at weekly intervals.
Reviews by patients who have undergone the procedure are generally favorable although there have been reports of extreme pain in the initial few days after the procedure. Another common side effect that has been reported is a tightening of the skin around the mouth, making it difficult for the individual to eat, smile or laugh. However, it must be noted that the degree of pain and side effects is much lower when compared to the after effects of conventional ablative resurfacing techniques.
Other side effects that have been reported include:
Since only a fraction of the skin surface is treated in one session, several sessions may be required. The treatment can be repeated every 4 to 8 weeks for as long as is necessary.
The cost for the treatment can vary from around $200 to $1500 depending on where the procedure is performed. Other factors that can affect cost include the area to be treated, the age and condition of the skin.
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