ActiveFX - Patients ask Dr. Ringpfeil answers
Please feel free to use the blog below to share information about ActiveFX or to ask Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil a question that might be of interest to others.
Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Active FX (Fractionated CO2 laser)
A carbon dioxide laser delivers accurate removal of skin layers and the highest degree of skin tightening available today. Fractionating this proven technique drastically reduces downtime compared to the traditional method as skin regenerates quicker from tiny islands of remaining epidermis.
Expected results:
Removal of fine, and intermediate lines, skin tightening, even pigmentation, removal of brown spots (sun spots), smooth texture of skin.
Preparation:
Vigorous regimen of daily sunscreens and night time retinoids for several months, no alcohol and aspirin for 2 weeks prior to the procedure, vitamin C 1000 mg daily starting 2 weeks prior to the treatment. Topical anesthetics is applied one hour prior to the procedure for maximum comfort.
Post treatment instructions:
Rigorous sun avoidance/protection for 3 months, refrain from alcohol consumption for 2 weeks after the treatment, avoid aspirin for 10 days, continue vitamin C 1000 mg daily for 3 months. Skin care in the immediate postoperative period includes the use of a very gentle non-soap cleanser, petrolatum until skin renewal sets in (3 days), oral medications to prevent herpes reactivation and bacterial super infection.
The hours following the treatment, ice should be applied for fifteen minutes every hour. That night, avoid sleeping face down the avoid swelling. Topical retinoids can be resumed when scabbing subsides (3-5 days after treatment).
Time to desired results:
Up to 5 days for skin renewal, up to 6 months for skin tightening (maximum collagen production).
Contraindications:
History of phenol peel, isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 12 months, coumadin and other blood thinners, recent tan. This treatment is highly efficient in fair skin types but all skin types can be treated. It is currently restricted to the face, neck and chest.
Duration of desired effects:
Even pigmentation is permanent with proper and vigorous sun protection of the treated areas. Future sun damage can be prevented by sun avoidance and use of a broad spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen for life. Lines may recur within 10 years. This treatment can be paired with Botox injections and fillers in order to extend results. One to 2 treatments are usually sufficient to achieve these results.
Downtime:
3-6 days for skin renewal, gradually diminishing pinkishness for about 3 months.
Related Procedures
Hello Dr. Ringpfeil,
What are the differences between the Co2re fractional laser system and the Deep FX system in relation to acne scarring?
The DeepFx is part of the Lumenis Encore system which is the most versatile and powerful of all CO2 lasers on the market. This allows to dial the system in the widest range possible which is needed for many types of scars, especially the thicker ones or the deepest types. When dealing with very shallow scars, many other CO2 lasers might be considered, including those that are deemed CO2 laser peel, such as PIXEL. The CO2-re fractional system is somewhere in the middle.
I know I want deep fx treatment to tighten my neck after weight lose. Please let me know if you personally perform this treatment and how soon can I confirm an appointment. I am Travelling in 4 weeks out of the country
I personally perform all CO2 laser procedures, including Deep FX. Please schedule an appointment for cosmetic consultation with me so that we can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.
What is the difference between traditional CO2 laser treatments and Laser Skin Resurfacing with Active FX
Traditional CO2 treatment refers to full ablation of the skin. Amongst other indication, this procedure was in the past performed on light colored skin to rejuvenate the skin or to treat severe acne scars. It was notorious for prolonged healing and a chance of pigmentary changes. It is currently not performed anymore except for the treatment of certain superficial skin cancers.
Skin resurfacing with Active FX refers to a fractional use of the CO2 laser, hence FX. Rather than removing full layers of the skin, albeit minimal, only fractions of these thin layers are removed, leaving behind islands of skin from which wound healing is generated quickly. This virtually eliminates any chance of pigmentation changes but Active FX is still reserved for people with lighter pigment. Deep FX is suitable for all skin colors.