Fraxel Re:Pair and Active Fx Safety and Preparation

Dr. Rivkin,

I am consdering undergoing Fraxel re:pair. What is the differnece between this and the Active FX laser that you offer (they seem rather similar)? What are the possible side effects of such a procedure? How common is post-procedure hyperpigmentation? Thanks.

Amy



hi amy,
they are very similar devices - both are fractional CO2 lasers. the technology is good and both will give you good results. i got the active fx because the re:pair is such a new device, i hate being the first one to try something that just comes out. although reliant is an excellent company and has done all sorts of testing and refinement on the technology, this is the most invasive laser we have for use in the office. i want to be absolutely positive that it is perfectly safe. active fx has been out for a couple of years and has had great results without problems. so i felt safe getting it.
that being said, the re:pair has been out for a few months now, and i have not heard of any problems with it, so that is encouraging. your doctor will probably be the best person to speak to you about the re:pair in detail.
hyperpigmentation is higher in asians, as well people who have darker skin( hispanic, middle eastern, indian and black). i would be extremely careful if you fall into these categories. make sure that your doc is pretreating you with topical bleaching agents for 2 weeks. also, you have to be very careful of the sun before and after your treatment.
you should go on antivirals beforehand and antibiotics afterwards to make sure you do not wind up with a skin infection. you are compromising your skin protective barrier, so bugs can get through easier.
hope that helps