Fractional Ablative Skin Resurfacing

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Lake Havasu and Kingman, AZ

Fractional Ablative Skin Resurfacing Lake Havasu City, AZ

Fractional ablative resurfacing is an innovative laser treatment that targets skin concerns ranging from mild to moderate signs of aging to body and facial scarring.

Dr. Michael Colonna, a board-certified emergency medicine physician with more than 15 years of experience, leads Prima Medical Care. He and his team are committed to the well-being of their patients, delivering attentive care and profound results that positively impact their lives.

To explore what you can achieve with fractional ablative resurfacing, contact us online or call (928) 302-3798 to reach our offices in Lake Havasu City or Kingman.

About Fractional Ablative Resurfacing

Fractional ablative resurfacing is a non-surgical and FDA-approved skin resurfacing treatment. It uses precise laser application to heat moisture in the skin to stimulate collagen production, remove dead cells, and reduce superficial pigmentation and enlarged pores. Unlike other ablative lasers, which remove the entire top layer of the skin, this laser treatment uses a fractional method. This means it creates pixel-sized perforations in the skin to reduce signs of photoaging. (1) Instead of addressing the entire area broadly, fractional ablative resurfacing isolates its treatment area to your specific concerns. Because this process also stimulates collagen production, the treated area continues to become smoother and tighter several weeks after treatment. And because treatment is more focused, the surrounding skin is protected, allowing for faster healing.

Benefits of Fractional Ablative Resurfacing

Fractional ablative resurfacing offers a non-surgical, non-invasive, little-to-no downtime way to enhance skin health, smoothness, and clarity. These treatments are safe for all skin types, and they can effectively treat:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Age spots
  • Skin tags
  • Uneven skin color or texture
  • Sun-damaged skin
  • Mild to moderate acne scarring
  • Photoaging

Candidates

If you are seeking a non-invasive way to address a wide variety of skin concerns, then fractional ablative resurfacing may benefit you greatly. Prospective patients should be in good general health without any significant underlying conditions, not be pregnant, and not have any active sunburns, rashes, or skin infections. You must also have realistic expectations for your results and be prepared to commit to proper aftercare and sun protection.

Personal Consultation

During your personal consultation, Dr. Colonna or another Prima Medical Care expert skin specialist will evaluate your medical history, inquire about any previous medications or facial treatments, and discuss your overall goals. They will closely examine your skin concerns and determine how fractional ablative resurfacing can deliver the results you desire. This meeting is also an ideal opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have. The goal of this meeting is for you to gather as much information as you need to feel confident as you near treatment.

If you are ready to elevate the health and appearance of your skin, contact us online or call (928) 302-3798 to schedule your consultation at our offices in Lake Havasu City or Kingman.

Preparation

Effectively preparing for your treatment ensures that your skin is in good health to optimize results. You will receive detailed preparation instructions specific to your laser treatment plan and target concerns, but in general, we advise that patients:

  • Avoid excessive sun exposure
  • Cease smoking and nicotine use
  • Pause blood-thinning medications and supplements under medical guidance
  • Discontinue use of isotretinoin (Accutane) for at least six months
  • Arrive with a clean face, free of makeup, lotions, or sunscreen

Procedure

Dr. Colonna or another expert skin specialist will begin your procedure by cleaning the target area and applying a topical numbing cream, then allowing it to set for at least 30 minutes. They will provide protective eyewear and calibrate the laser device to the proper settings for your concerns. To perform the fractional ablative resurfacing treatment, they will pass the handheld device over your skin, delivering microscopic columns of heat and light. They will carefully work in sections until they address each targeted area. (2) The laser will create a prickling or intense heat sensation as it fires, but the numbing cream will significantly reduce discomfort. After addressing each area, Dr. Colonna or your skin specialist will gently wipe the vaporized tissue with a wet gauze and apply a thick layer of healing ointment to soothe your skin. This procedure takes about 20 to 60 minutes in total.

Recovery

After your treatment, your skin will appear slightly red or “bronzed” and feel similar to a mild sunburn. You may also experience swelling and pinpoint bleeding, which are normal reactions and will quickly subside. Within the first couple of days, it is important to reapply the healing ointment at least 3 times daily. You may also utilize cold compresses and over-the-counter medications to assist with any discomfort. After a week, your skin will begin to scab or peel, revealing the fresh, unaffected layers beneath, rich in new collagen. You must not pick at these scabs or peel the skin; allowing your skin to flake naturally is critical to preventing scarring. After two weeks, the redness and pinkness will fade, and you may resume your regular skincare routine.

Results of Fractional Ablative Resurfacing

As collagen levels improve, you will notice your skin tightening and smoothing. You will be able to enjoy a complexion that is freer of acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, and other common skin concerns. Your skin will have a long-lasting freshness and luminous glow that may boost your self-confidence and minimize signs of aging.

Corresponding Procedures Available Now

Jeuveau®

Jeuveau is an injectable treatment that can reduce visible signs of aging, fine lines and wrinkles, and dynamic muscle activity. It temporarily relaxes the muscles to smooth the skin. Jeuveau can enhance fractional ablative resurfacing results by enhancing smoothness and complementing improved skin health and clarity.

ClearStem Skincare

ClearStem is a medical-grade skincare line that will keep your skin healthy, clear, and glowing after your fractional ablative resurfacing treatment. Their line includes a facial cleanser, serum, brightening eye cream, hydraglow moisturizer, and body lotion. The products are ideal for sensitive skin and have special formulations that hydrate, calm oil glands, brighten, and more.

Microneedling

Microneedling prompts the skin to enter a growth and renewal phase by making thousands of micro-punctures. This treatment encourages collagen production, tightens the skin, and reignites a youthful glow. Microneedling can effectively reduce acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture, and more. (3)

Cost of Fractional Ablative Resurfacing in Lake Havasu City and Kingman, AZ

The cost of your fractional ablative resurfacing treatment varies depending on the size of your treatment area, how many sessions you will require, and your overall goals for your procedure. Dr. Colonna or an expert team member will outline the total cost of your treatment during your personal consultation. They will also address any lingering questions or concerns you may have, ensuring you approach treatment with confidence and a complete understanding. Contact us online or call our Lake Havasu City or Kingman offices at (928) 302-3798 to schedule your personal consultation!

FAQ

What is fractional ablative resurfacing and what does it do?

Fractional ablative resurfacing is a procedure that uses lasers to improve the look and feel of the skin. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, mild skin laxity, and other common yet frustrating concerns.

What are the benefits of fractional ablative resurfacing?

Fractional ablative resurfacing reduces fine lines, age spots, uneven skin color or texture, sun-damaged skin, mild to moderate acne scarring, and more in a non-invasive, safe-for-all-skin-types manner.

Can I pair fractional ablative resurfacing with any other treatments?

Yes, you can pair fractional ablative resurfacing with medical-grade skincare products, injections, and more. How much does fractional ablative resurfacing cost? The cost of your fractional ablative resurfacing varies depending on the size of your treatment area, how many sessions you will need, and your overall goals. Dr. Colonna or another Prima skin specialist will outline the total cost of your treatment during your personal consultation.

How is fractional ablative resurfacing different from other laser treatments?

Fractional ablative resurfacing differs from other laser treatments because it only treats a fraction of the skin, allowing the untouched “bridges” of healthy skin to accelerate healing time.

Who is not a good candidate for fractional ablative resurfacing?

Patients who are currently pregnant, have extremely sensitive skin or underlying skin conditions, have active sunburns, rashes, or infections, and certain other characteristics may not make ideal candidates. Dr. Colonna or another Prima Medical Care skin specialist will determine your candidacy during your consultation. If you do not qualify for fractional ablative resurfacing, we will help you find an effective and safe alternative.

References

  1. Verma N, Yumeen S, Raggio BS. Ablative Laser Resurfacing. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557474/
  2. Mayo Clinic. Laser resurfacing – Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic.org. Published 2018. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-resurfacing/about/pac-20385114
  3. Kim J, Sang Gyu Lee, Choi S, et al. Combination of Fractional Microneedling Radiofrequency and Ablative Fractional Laser versus Ablative Fractional Laser Alone for Acne and Acne Scars. Yonsei Medical Journal. 2023;64(12):721-721. doi:https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2023.0234