Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a precise, effective and long-lasting method of skin rejuvenation. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser precisely and evenly ablates the surface of the skin, layer by layer, permitting clear definition of landmarks and optimal depth control—a valuable tool for treating a range of aesthetic conditions, including wrinkles, aging or tired eyelids and acne scarring.
The Ultrapulse Encore offers the versatility of deeper laser resurfacing or the Active-Fx minimal downtime treatment using the exclusive CO2 Lite feature.
UltraPulse Technology
UltraPulse high-energy, short-pulsed carbon dioxide laser technology creates a precise wound by means of thin layer ablation and controlled dermal coagulation, with a predictable zone of residual thermal damage. Clinically, there is global improvement in the appearance of the skin, with a reduction in solar lentigines, actinic keratoses and rhytids, and an improvement in overall pigmentation and skin tone. Histologically, there is cytologic and architectural normalization of the epidermis, and the formation of a dermal repair zone consisting of youthful dense, parallel arrays of collagen bundles in an expanded papillary and reticular dermis.
The depth of dermal heating from residual thermal damage dictates the degree of clinical and histologic improvement that will result, along with the duration of wound healing and postoperative erythema. With Max-Fx moderate to deep resurfacing, occlusive or open wound care techniques are employed and reepithelialization occurs over a 7- to 10-day period postoperatively. Erythema typically endures for 3-4 months following the procedure.
The UltraPulse Max-Fx can also be used to create a superficial wound that is confined to the epidermis when only light skin refinement is required or when the patient desires a more rapid recovery. To achieve superficial exfoliation, the CO2 Lite control is utilized with fluences below the ablation threshold. A single pass imparts intraepidermal coagulation; thermal coagulation that is confined to the epidermis with little to no thermal injury in the dermis. The coagulated epidermis is left intact and serves as a natural wound dressing. Patients typically reepithelialize in 4-7 days and erythema is gone within 2-3 weeks. Healing times and improvements in cosmetic appearance are comparable to a "light" erbium treatment (3-5 passes using 5 J/cm2).
Clinical Studies
The Merits of CO2 Laser Technology
Years of experience and an extensive reference base including dozens for peer-reviewed research papers have standardized the UltraPulse laser resurfacing treatment protocol, ensuring safe, repeatable and consistent results. This collective experience has not only amplified the merits of CO
2 technology but broadened its utility as well. Since the introduction of laser resurfacing in 1994 we have learned that:
- CO2 delivers the best effect for deep wrinkles due to its superior ability to provide continued histologic improvement over time.
- Fewer passes yield the same results with less chance for complications.
- CO2 can be used less invasively for treating milder indications or for when a shorter recovery time is desired.
- Darker skin tones can be treated safely and effectively when treatment is superficial.
- Upon long term follow-up, physician, patient and histologic evaluations have proven that clinical benefits persist.
The Value of Utilizing Authentic CO2
When addressing moderate to severe rhytids, true high-energy short-pulsed CO
2 technology has proven to be the superior modality.
- Physicians report that continued, progressive improvement in solar elastosis is seen post UltraPulse CO2 laser resurfacing.
- The hemostatic effect only afforded by CO2 provides superior visualization of clinical endpoints.
- For surgical incisions, the cutting ability of CO2 is unsurpassed.
