Changing the face of plastic surgery

Technology advances aren't limited to computers and cell phones these days, ongoing research leads to changes in procedures and laser treatments performed by plastic surgeons, which bring reduced risk and quick healing.

With more and more people looking for non-invasive ways to reduce wrinkles or other unsightly facial problems, researchers and surgeons continue to bring cutting edge treatments to the forefront.

Local surgeon, Dr. Steve Weiner, MD of Aesthetic Clinque, was selected to do a one-year study for Fraxel Re:pair, a non-invasive laser treatment used for the reduction of fine to moderate wrinkles on the face, neck and chest.

The study began after Weiner formed a relationship with Solta Medical Inc., which included several nationwide webinars in which three of Weiner's patients were featured.

Weiner was chosen for the formal scientific study and his results were presented at the annual American Academy for Dermatology meeting.

The study will also be published by Solta Medical Inc.

"As a plastic surgeon I've found this to be the best treatment on the market to date and I don't anticipate anything will replace it for many years," said Weiner.

Unlike the procedure for a face-lift, which requires surgery, the Fraxel Re:pair is a non-invasive treatment based on CO2 laser technology with results lasting up to 10 years. For most patients only one treatment is required, for deeper wrinkles two may be necessary, according to Weiner.

For anyone contemplating the traditional surgical procedure Weiner suggests they have a consultation before committing, since they may not need to go "under the knife."

That advice wasn't necessary for one of his patients, who had already been looking at alternatives to a traditional face lift.

"I heard about the treatment on the radio," said Maureen Porsche, 59, Niceville. "It sounded like a great alternative, so I researched it (Fraxel Re:pair) on the Web. Once I had my consultation I knew this was the treatment I wanted."

The laser effectively removes portions the epidermis and heats the dermis to tighten the skin and help with collagen elasticity, referred to as resurfacing. As with other laser treatment the new skin is exposed and wound care is necessary.

This, according to Porsche was the most difficult part of the treatment.

"Every three hours my husband would change the dressings," Porsche said. "Although it's recommended to stay indoors for seven days, I left for a business trip on day six and had no problems, just a little redness."

Not only does the Fraxel Re:pair impact deep wrinkles, Weiner has had significant results in the treatment of acne scars and brown spots, caused by over exposure to the sun.

The treatment isn't limited to gender or age.

However, Weiner has eliminated certain groups from receiving this treatment, smokers, people with excessively tanned skin and deeply dark skinned individuals.

"Those who smoke inhibit the healing process since nicotine constricts blood vessels," explained Weiner. "And for those with heightened pigmentation the treatment doesn't do as well. The expectation level is lessoned with high pigmentation."

He does however treat Asians and Hispanics.

The cost for Fraxel Re:pair ranges from $1,300 to $6,300, approximately 1/3 the cost for a surgical face lift which can cost more than $10,000.

"Not everyone needs to have surgery to improve their looks," said Weiner. "I've found this procedure to be the best available and I don't perform surgery any longer. If a patients expectations are excessive I will refer them to another professional in the area."