Question
How effective is Fraxel Repair for treating acne scars on the nose area?
I have some deep acne scars on my nose and i am planning on getting Fraxel Repair for the face. I was wondering if the nose area is harder to treat for acne scars or not? I am asian and also worry about pigmentation problem with laser. Is the normal recovery time 2 weeks?
Answers (2)
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1
October 27, 2008
Fraxel re:pair Laser for Treating Acne Scars on Asian Skin
Board Certified
Facial Plastic Surgeon
Facial Plastic Surgeon
Answer by Michael A. Persky, MD
Hi Luca's Mom,
I have seen excellent results with Fraxel re:pair treatments for acne scarring, even on the nose. Large pores are difficult to correct with any modality, but fractionated CO2 lasers and traditional CO2 lasers give the best possible results.
You should pre-treat your skin for a few weeks before the laser treatments to help avoid hyperpigmentation, as well as avoiding sun exposure and using a physical sun block. The normal recovery is 7 to 10 days, but the redness after the treatment may take from 4 to 6 weeks to resolve.
Good luck and be well.
Dr. P
2
October 23, 2008
In general I haven't seen many good acne scar results from fraxel.
Fraxel re:pair is best in my opinion for wrinkles, while the re:store is best for acne scars. This isn't to say that either is going to make significant changes in acne scars, but the recovery time for the re:store is much less, making it more worthwhile to get that than the re:pair given fairly equivalent acne scar improvements.
One comment or caution: Asian skin and lasers such as re:pair don't always do that well. The reason is that pigmentation after this can be variable and that may lead to poor results, even if the scars are lessened. This is another reason to consider re:store (or nothing) for this problem.
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10/27/08
Hello, I have been a natural skin care esthetician for over 25 years. I disagree with the use of lasers on most peoples skin. I have seen discoloration, hair growth, and scars and acne that have returned after a very short period of time. Most physicians I know have stopped using lasers all together.
My suggestion, try micro dermabrasion with a well trained skin care expert first. Also good skin care, washing, masking for a good 6 months.I always tell my clients,"it's like losing weight, you can do it the right way and keep it off, or the wrong way and more weight will return."
As an esthetcian I MUST find natural ways to take care of skin, without the use of medicine or invasive procedures. NATURAL DOES WORK!!!! Just be patient!!! Fondly Lisa Marie
12/7/08
From personal experience, and tp address the above comment, microdermabrasion did NOT help with my deeper acne scarring. It did not even help with the enlarged pores on my nose. I've had at least 20 microderm treatments and while my scarring has become smoother, it would be worthwhile to invest in a more effective treatment.
Acne.org has a message board for people who have acne scars and their experiences trying various treatments. Seek advice from people who've had experience with this. Good luck!