The F.A.S.T. procedure, developed by Dr. Schweiger, uses the most effective laser technology for the treatment of acne scars in an innovative way to improve results and decrease downtime. F.A.S.T. stands for Focal Acne Scar Treatment; this focal acne scar treatment utilizes increased Fractional CO2 laser energy to treat only focal areas of scarring on the face. Previously, acne scarring was addressed by treating the entire face with medium levels of energy. The F.A.S.T. technique uses much higher energy levels, but does not treat the unscarred areas of the face. This allows for improved results with faster healing.
How do Fractional CO2 lasers treat acne scars?
Fractional CO2 lasers poke very tiny holes in the skin, leaving healthy skin intact surrounding the treated area. This stimulates the production of new collagen in these areas to fill in the acne scars. Traditional Fractional CO2 resurfacing treats the entire face, while the F.A.S.T. technique treats only the acne scars.
Is there downtime after Fractional CO2 laser treatment using the F.A.S.T. technique?
After F.A.S.T. treatment, patients can expect four to five days of downtime. They may experience crusting, redness and sometimes even weeping, though only the treated areas will be involved. Patients may have small patches of redness on the treated areas for one to two weeks following the treatment, though this is often much more manageable than redness over the whole face that can be seen with traditional Fractional CO2 laser treatment.
What types of acne scars are treated with the F.A.S.T. technique?
Isolated atrophic (“pitted”) acne scars respond very well to the F.A.S.T. technique. Approximately 50% to 70% improvement is usually noted during the first follow up visit. Although no results are guaranteed. Most acne scar treatments require months to produce the degree of improvement that the F.A.S.T. technique gives after only 1-2 weeks.
Are there any side effects associated with the F.A.S.T. technique?
Some patients experience mild redness over the treated area that persists longer than expected. This redness can be effectively treated with one treatment of the Fraxel laser.
What is the cost of the Fractional CO2 F.A.S.T. procedure?
The cost of treating focal acne scars with the F.A.S.T. technique is $3500. For most patients, only one treatment is required to obtain 50% to 70% improvement of acne scars.
Where is the Fractional CO2 F.A.S.T. procedure performed?
The F.A.S.T. technique was developed by Dr. Eric Schweiger; all treatments are performed at the Clear Clinic, a division of Schweiger Dermatology in New York City.
