Scar Treatments – Resurfacing Lasers

Advanced Treatments for Scarring

Scarring used to be considered permanent – something that may fade with time but never entirely disappear.

Now the latest laser technology has given doctors and patients new tools with which to tackle scars.

Dr John Quinn explains:

“We can improve scars anywhere on the body. I never say remove because it is rarely if ever possible to completely remove a scar. This is particularly true of acne scarring. However, significant improvements are now possible with the latest machines.”

Quinn Clinics has invested in a selection of cutting-edge skin treatment systems which can delivery genuine results in improving scars. A choice of three options is available for the treatment of surgical or traumatic facial scars.

  1. CO2 fractional laser – the most effective but also most aggressive with longest downtime
  2. Sublative Fractional RadioFrequency – similar technology to laser but uses electrical energy rather than laser and heals faster
  3. M22 ResurFX™ fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing treatment

1.  CO2 Fractional Laser

CO2RE is a fractional CO2 laser. It is the most aggressive option with the longest downtime and involves a significant emotional investment from the patient. However, it is also the most effective with ‘amazing’ results. For this reason it is a very popular treatment for scarring.

How it Works

  • The machine ablates microscopic columns of skin, leaving the bulk of the skin unharmed
  • It also generates heat within the dermis, boosting collagen production
  • For a full face or around the eyes, most patients see a significant difference after one treatment
  • The effect builds up over a period of about three months

Aftercare

  • Full face treatment or around the eyes requires a week off work, taking antibiotic and antiviral tablets for 5 days
  • There can be some redness for a few weeks post treatment. Results are judged at 3 months
  • For traumatic or surgical scars, the area looks like a burn for about 5 days and needs to be covered with Vaseline
  • Vaseline is also used for 5 days after full face treatment
  • It is not suitable for use on black or Asian skin

Before and After Scar Treatment Results with CO2 Fractional Laser

before scar treatment after scar treatment

2.  Sublative Fractional RadioFrequency

Sublative is the brand name of our fractional radio frequency device. It is also sometimes called ematrix. While Sublative treatment is less aggressive than CO2, the shorter downtime after treatment is a very compelling advantage.

How it Works

  • Similar technology to laser in terms of indication and effect but it uses electrical energy rather than laser
  • Generates columns of heat in the dermis (i.e. Under the epidermis) of the skin
  • Also ablates a fraction of the superficial epidermis (making it great for shrinking pores)
  • Requires a minimum of three sessions
  • The effect builds up over a period of about three months

Aftercare

  • Treatment doesn’t actually remove columns of dermis, so the skin heals much faster
  • Patients are red for up to 5 days but getting better each day. It looks like bad sunburn and some swelling is normal which usually settles after 2-3 days
  • The skin feels a little rough for a few days after treatment
  • Sublative can be used on all skin types but with some caution on darker skin

3.  M22 ResurFX™

ResurFX™ is fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing treatment using the new M22 system by Lumenis – the latest addition to Quinn Clinics collection of laser equipment.

How it Works

  • ResurFX™ is a non-ablative fractional resurfacing device
  • The laser generates columns of heat in the dermis and does not disrupt the epidermis/skin surface
  • Treatment requires multiple sessions – 5 would be typical for scarring
  • The effect builds up over a period of about three months

Aftercare

  • ResurFX™ has the shortest downtime of 2-3 days on the face

Dr John Quinn comments:

“This is a beautiful laser. The technology is cutting edge. I’m really excited about it because we now have the full range of resurfacing devices.”

Which Treatment to Choose?

Quinn Clinics’ range of advanced equipment means that the most appropriate choice of treatment can be made depending not on what’s available but on the patient’s requirements.

A proper examination and diagnosis of the scar is vital – as well as discussion between client and doctor about expectations of treatment and what downtime and aftercare requirements are reasonable and manageable.

Every patient has different scarring and different requirements. At Quinn Clinics, each is treated as an individual and the most appropriate treatment is determined and explained at consultation.

About Quinn Clinics

Advanced Skin Treatment Clinic, Bristol

Quinn Clinics based in Clifton, Bristol, was established in 2006 and offers a full range of cosmetic, medical and laser skin treatments. As well as anti-ageing injections, the clinic can offer the latest laser technology including IPL laser and CO2 fractional laser and the new M22 multiple skin technology platform (IPL, ResurFX™ – fractional non-ablative, ND:YAG).

Dr Quinn is a qualified aesthetic doctor with specific expertise in dermal fillers and BOTOX®, based at his own clinic, Quinn Clinics in Clifton, Bristol.

Call 0117 924 4592 or email info@quinnclinics.co.uk for further information.

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