The purpose of this informed consent form is to provide written information regarding the risks and potential adverse outcomes relating to the procedure named above. This material serves as a supplement to the discussion you have with your doctor. It is important that you fully understand this information, so please read this document thoroughly. If you have any questions regarding the procedure, please address your concerns with your doctor at the time of your consultation.

What is Fractional Laser?

Fractional laser works by delivering precise microbeams of laser light into the layers of skin, creating deep, narrow columns of heat into the tissue or Microthermal Treatment Zones (MTZs). These MTZs stimulate the tissues natural healing process that results in fast growth of healthy new collagen rich skin. The procedure can be used on the face, neck, chest, arms and hands. The intended benefits Fractional Laser include but are not limited to the reduction of acne scars, other scars, photo ageing, skin laxity, improvement of skin texture, pigment, wrinkles and fine lines.

It should be understood that all procedures carry certain risks. The potential risks and complications from this type of procedure include but are not limited to:

Pain: The stinging or burning sensation from the procedure can produce a moderate amount of discomfort. An anaesthetic cream, local anaesthesia injections and cool air jet will typically be used to minimise discomfort.

Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling can occur in treated area. The redness and swelling will typically subside in 1 to 7 days, but could last longer. The effects can be minimised with the application of cool compresses if required.

Skin Darkening/Lightening: Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) rarely occurs in the treated areas and will usually fade within 1 to 6 months. This reaction is more common when treated areas are exposed to the sun. Hypopigmentation or light spots can appear as a delayed response to treatment. Pale areas can darken or re-pigment in several months, but it could be permanent. It is extremely important to protect the treated area from sun exposure with a hat and sunscreen for 6 weeks after treatment and carefully adhere to all post-treatment instructions.

Blisters and scabbing: Blistering and/or scabbing are uncommon but can develop with treatment. Blisters and or scabs will go away within 2 to 7 days. The scab will disappear during the natural wound healing process of the skin. During this time, the area should not be manipulated or picked, which can lead to scarring.

Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can occur post procedure. Infections can cause redness and swelling and resolve or progress into cellulitis requiring treatment. Fractional Laser could trigger a recurrence of cold sores (Herpes simplex infections) or acne form eruptions which may require treatment. These problems may resolve in time, but medical intervention may be required in some cases, and long-term effects may persist in rare cases.

Scarring: There is a risk of skin scarring, including abnormal raised and/or depressed scars with any minimally invasive procedure. Careful adherence to all advised postoperative instructions will help reduce the possibility of this occurrence.

Dissatisfaction: With all treatments the precise degree of improvement cannot be guaranteed. The outcome’s subjective nature also means dissatisfaction is a possible outcome regardless of effectiveness of treatment. It should be understood that the effect of all treatments may gradually wear off and additional treatments may be necessary to acquire the desired effect, and further charges will apply if more treatments are required.

 

POST CARE – Fractional Laser

While there are limited side effects from Fractional Laser, there are a few post-treatment instructions you should be aware of. 

• After your Fractional Laser treatment you may experience warmth and redness in the treated areas for 1-3 days.
• Repeated application of our Rescue balm in the first 48 hours will greatly increase comfort levels and speed your recovery time. Rescue balm is best stored in the refrigerator, as keeping this product cold will add to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cleansing is performed twice daily with a gentle cleanser, foaming it with water and using only clean hands.
• Scrubs and facial cloths are best avoided at this stage as they can harbor bacteria and further abrade the skin.
• Soreness and tightness of the treated area is common at this stage of treatment. In this period we strongly advise against exposure to chlorinated environments as the chemicals can irritate sensitized skin.
• Daily application of an SPF 50 which is available at reception is imperative after Fractional Laser treatments, even if you are not leaving the house!

Days 2- 10

• In the next 10 days following your Fractional Laser treatment sun exposure must be avoided..
• Continue to use your Rescue balm on a nightly basis.
• You may at this stage notice a bronzing of the treated area which is completely normal and will resolve as these skin cells begin to shed.
• Flaking, peeling and shedding can take place anywhere between days 3 and 10 and vary in severity depending on the level of ablation achieved.

Days 10-30

• Rescue Balm can now be applied as needed, with drier skins most likely continuing nightly use.
• Oilier and acne-prone skins may prefer to leave their skin bare at night after cleansing with the gentle cleanser.
• Remember that SPF will always be your most powerful anti-aging tool and should at this stage be an integral part of your daily regimen.

 

If you have any issues or concerns following your procedure, please call the clinic and your treating doctor will get back to you as soon as possible.