Laser Surgery: FRAXEL

Also known as: laser surgery for residual scarring, fractional laser skin treatments.

What is FRAXEL?

FRAXEL is a form of laser therapy that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions. It can be used to treat everything from scars to poor skin texture, sun damage and wrinkles.

What happens during the procedure? 

The patient rests comfortably and wears protective eyewear while a machine delivers a concentrated, fractured laser at the source of skin problems. The fractional laser actually produce tiny, invisible wounds on the skin. When the skin heals, it smooths and repairs the overall look of the skin. Most feel that the treatment is completely painless.

Is any special preparation needed?

In most cases, anesthetic cream is applied to the skin to make the patient more comfortable during the procedure.

What are the risk factors? 

Redness, swelling and an acne-like appearance on the skin is common for 4 to 5 days after treatment. Once this heals, however, the result is significantly smoother and blemish-free skin.


Reviewed by: Ana Margarita Duarte, MD

This page was last updated on: July 19, 2021 12:18 PM

Children's Dermatology

The Division of Dermatology at Nicklaus Children's Hospital focuses on the latest medications and technology available for the specialized treatment of all skin diseases and disorders affecting children of all ages.

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