Affirm Fractional Laser

Every so often a new laser technology comes along that is so remarkable in its impact that it changes the science and art of cosmetic surgery. Fractional laser resurfacing is this type of revolutionary breakthrough. Instead of burning the entire surface of the skin and leaving an open wound, fractional lasers create tiny microscopic wounds in the skin, leaving the rest of the skin intact. This makes treatment much safer and greatly reduces downtime. Fraxel® was the first fractional laser to be launched in 2004, with overall good results and high patient satisfaction. However, drawbacks of the Fraxel laser included a slow treatment time, some discomfort during treatment, and more downtime than many patients wanted.

Dermatology and Laser Institute is at the forefront of the fractional revolution in lasers. We are proud to offer a next-generation fractional laser called the Affirm, developed by Cynosure, a leading manufacturer of aesthetic lasers. The Affirm represents a significant advance over the older Fraxel laser. A recent study comparing Affirm to Fraxel showed less pain and less downtime with Affirm, with most patients requesting Affirm over Fraxel for continuing treatment. The Affirm features Combined Apex Pulse technology, which fractionates a powerful laser beam into a mosaic pattern of about 1000 micro-beams on the skin. The resulting precise pattern of laser micro-beams penetrates into the skin to create zones of micro-thermal injury, while leaving the surrounding skin intact. The result is both collagen remodeling and stimulation. Unlike Fraxel, Affirm uses two distinct wavelengths or colors of light, 1440 nm and 1320 nm. 1440 nm penetrates into the superficial dermis to target the zone of maximal sun damage, while 1320 nm penetrates very deeply to provide deep collagen heating and tissue tightening. The net effect is two treatments for the price of one!

Studies of the Affirm laser show that it improves the skin's texture, fine lines, acne scars, pore size and pigmentation. After a series of Affirm treatments, the skin will be rejuvenated, with visible softening of fine lines and scars as well as tightening of lax skin. Patients continue to see improvement even after the treatment is completed as new collagen is laid down.

Most importantly, it is comparatively painless when tested against Fraxel® or other fractional lasers. The treatments are shorter (from 10 minutes to half an hour) and easily tolerated with no anesthesia or just topical numbing cream. Downtime is also minimal, with the vast majority of patients able to resume normal activity after 24 hours.

The Affirm non-ablative fractional laser is used successfully for:

• Skin rejuvenation for dull, sun-damaged, lifeless skin
• Wrinkle reduction
• Acne scars
• Tightening of loose, wrinkly skin such as on the neck
• Stretch marks, surgical scars, traumatic scars, and more!

Before and After Photos