26. How long does it take to perform a procedure? On the average, 20- 40 minutes for a face, 15-20 minutes for the décolletage or arms, and 10-15 minutes for the hands.
27. What is the discomfort level the patient will feel? This will depend on the pain treatment program the doctor prescribes. Generally speaking during treatment, the micro spot ablation has the same feeling as a light finger flick to the cheek. Also the patient will feel a gradual heating of the skin as the treatment progresses.
28. Can a chiller be used during treatment to relieve the burning sensation? No, a chiller should not be used because it will compromise the thermal delivery and ultimately the treatment results.
29. How will the patient feel after treatment? This will vary from patient to patient but generally speaking one will feel like they have slight sunburn immediately after the treatment from 30 minutes to 3 hours. The skin will feel tight, especially around the lips.
30. How long is the recovery process? This again will vary from patient to patient and on the level of treatment prescribed. On the average, 5-7 days for the face, 7-10 days for the hands, décolletage, and arms.
31. What is the recovery process? Immediately post op and up to 3 hours the treated area will have a slight burning sensation similar to sunburn. Apply a cold compress to ease the burning sensation. The skin will show a fine pinpoint like pattern as a result of therapeutic beams. During the healing process it is important to keep the treated area hydrated with aquaphor or equivalent. Re-apply every 2-4 hours as needed. Gently wash the face with Cerave (or equivalent) followed with a water/vinegar soak until the peel is complete.
32. How soon can a patient come back for a second treatment? Most cases do not require a second treatment. If a second treatment is requested by the patient wait 1-2 months. Gradual improvement will occur during this time period due to new collagen production and remodeling.
33. How soon can someone go outside after a treatment? One could go outside immediately after treatment with a protective hat and eyewear. As soon as the erythema and edema subside, one can apply makeup and sun screen. Keep in mind that once the new skin is reveled it is new skin and should be treated as being sensitive to the sun. Every precaution should be taken to protect the new skin from repeated damage.
34. Can patients go back to work the same day? Generally speaking, Yes. However everybody has their own level of social down time. How to gauge this social down time also depends on the settings and medications prescribed for the treatment. Patients receiving only a mild topical anesthetic have returned to work immediately after treatment.