If you are considering cosmetic surgery but are concerned about the level of pain or discomfort you may have to endure, there is a new class of laser-based procedures that are non-invasive and quite painless. These treatments can usually be more affordable because patients need not pay for hospitalization and anesthesia costs. Currently, there are many different types of laser procedures that address cosmetic needs ranging from stretch mark removal to body contouring. Among these treatments, zerona and fraxel laser are two of the more popular choices. For those who want to know more about them, read on to find out how they work.

Zerona laser lipolysis treatment is an FDA-approved, non-invasive fat removal procedure that does away with traditional surgical techniques. Patients are positioned in a zerona machine which uses an array of low level lasers to emulsify accumulated subcutaneous fats. The dispersed fats are then excreted over time through normal bodily functions. Using such an approach, patients have zero downtime and can resume their usual activities immediately after the zerona laser treatment. However, they do have to return to the clinic more than once as a complete zerona course of treatment requires at least five or six sessions to achieve the advertised results.

In contrast, fraxel laser is a type of skin resurfacing procedure that is entirely laser based. Its main goal is to stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin, which are two important proteins necessary to keep our skin looking tight and youthful. This is done by inflicting tiny wounds underneath our outer skin so that the natural healing system can be stimulated, which in turn will lead to more production of collagen and elastin. The fraxel procedure helps restore these two proteins which tend to break down over time and need to be replaced to help create a rejuvenated skin appearance in older patients. Patients may experience some discomfort, similar to a sunburn. The full benefits of the treatment will not be immediately apparent, but can take up to several months to be fully realized as the healing process continues.