Making the Rounds

After two years of research, the people at Reliant Technologies are launching their Fraxel re:pair laser system to the world of dermatology. The Fraxel re:pair represents a new category in skin rejuvenation, which may be appealing to most of us. Let's face it, the population isn't getting any younger.

I spoke with Christopher Zachary, FRCP, chair of the department of dermatology, University of California at Irvine, and asked him to simply explain what this new device can accomplish. He told me that the Fraxel re:pair laser is the biggest breakthrough for wrinkle removal in the last 10 years. "Results approach those we can achieve with a facelift, with very few complications and limited downtime."

A little more technically, the Fraxel re:pair laser system offers a fractional ablative treatment utilizing a CO2 laser to produce similar effectiveness to traditional bulk ablative treatments, with less risk. The Fraxel re:pair laser system is distinguished by its ability to ablate tissue deep within the dermis. The treatment is made-up of deep microscopic ablated zones surrounded by undamaged tissue, rather than a thin, general ablation of the entire surface like traditional CO2 lasers.

Fraxel re:pair's tightening-rhytides before and after.

What the Fraxel re:pair does is produces significant tissue tightening, wrinkle reduction and textural improvement, both on and off the face. One of the best things about this device is that it's the only minimally invasive, ablative fractional laser system that can deliver a full spectrum of aesthetic treatments. It also has an ease of use that other systems don't offer. The Fraxel re:pair can be operated by a single clinician because of its built-in smoke evacuation system.

President of Westlake Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Clinic in Austin, TX, Gregory Nikolaidis, M.D. excitedly told me, "The Fraxel re:pair addresses all three elements of photodamage that patients want to improve." I was curious what those three elements were. Dr. Nikoladis told me that they are: pigmentation, fine lines and elasticity. I guess that doesn't surprise me, three of the things that take away our youthful glow.

The people at Reliant aren't done yet. They are studying the Fraxel re:pair as a possible treatment for acne scars and atrophic scars. Until those treatments pass the test, I can be confident in saying I believe I have stumbled upon a new-age fountain of youth.