What is Matrix IR Laser Wrinkle Reduction?
Laser and radiofrequency energy can be used to heat up the deeper layers of the skin while protecting the surface skin. This heating activates fibroblasts signaling collagen to remodel and form new collagen cells, resulting in reduction of the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, perioral wrinkles, crow's feet, forehead lines, and scars. The Matrix IR™ by Syneron™ combines fractionated 915nm diode laser and bipolar radiofrequency for a non-ablative treatment reducing facial wrinkles and scars. Because the energy is fractionated, more intense light energy can be delivered into microscopic zones leaving untreated skin around these zones that assist in healing and collagen remodeling allowing for more effective treatments
Who is a candidate?
Patients looking to improve wrinkles or scars in a non-ablative manner without injections, are good candidates for these treatments.
You should not have treatments with Matrix IR™ if you are pregnant or have been on Accutane within the past 3 months. In addition, patients with pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or metal implants should not have these treatments. Patients who have diabetes, an autoimmune disease, history of cold sores, or have had injectable fillers in the area to be treated should let us know prior to treatment with Matrix IR™.
What is Matrix IR Laser Wrinkle Reduction like?
Usually a series of five treatments is needed. At each treatment all of the areas of concern will be targeted.
There is some discomfort felt during the treatment described as a hot pinch. Do not use topical anesthetic prior to the treatment or it will interfere with the treatment and increase the risk of complications. Thre is no discomfort once the treatment is over.
After the treatment, the area may remain pink and have mild swelling for a few hours following the treatment. Makeup can be applied immediately.
How does Matrix IR Laser Wrinkle Reduction work ?
The Matrix IR™ is a 915 diode laser with bipolar radiofrequency. The light is emitted in fractionated zones. This allows for more intense light to be emitted verses other wrinkle reducing or tissue tightening laser, created strong thermal bands (with peak temperatures of more than 60°C) that heat deep into the dermis. There is specific dermal heating betwee 1-2mm in depth. Coagulation occurs where the thermal bands and radiofrequency overlap. The head is conducted to collagen fibers causing collagen contraction and remodeling and new collagen synthesis. Because the light is fractionated and more intense, the injury created by the thermal bands initiates stronger remodeling of thin compacted collagen and there is minimal risk of sides effects for the epidermis.
What type of equipment is used?
The equipment used is the Matrix IR™ by Syneron™.
What desired results can be expected?
A series of three to five treatments will reduce wrinkles and scars. This will help to reduce frown and forehead lines, crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and wrinkles around the mouth revealing a more relaxed alert looking appearance.
Maintenance treatments will be needed over time to maintain the result achieved.
Are there any negatives?
There is some minor discomfort during the treatment described as a hot pinching sensation. This resolves at the end of the treatment and there is no lasting discomfort.
Most patients will have mild redness and swelling in the treatment areas for a few hours after the treatment. Makeup can be applied if desired.
It is very uncommon but there is a small risk of a skin wound developing that can result in a permanent scar or depression. Subsequent treatments may be necessary to improve these should they occur.
What happens after Matrix IR Laser Wrinkle Reduction?
Most patients have mild redness and swelling for a few hours after the treatment.
Results will develop over time and with subsequent treatments. Full results can be appreciated a few months following the last treatment.
Maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain the results.
Is there another way to get the same effect?
Alternative forms of treatment for wrinkles and scars include BOTOX® Cosmetic, injectable fillers such as Restylane™ or Radiesse™, Fraxel SR1500 treatments, Pearl Erbium Laser Peels, laser tissue tightening treatments with Thermage, Titan, or ReFirme ST, resurfacing, surgery, the Pan G lift, and topical therapies.
How is this different than other procedures?
The Matrix IR™ is a non-invasive treatment that does not require injections. The laser stimulates the patient's own collagen to remodel and does not rely on a temporary substance filler.
Can this be combined with other treatments?
The Matrix IR™ may be combined with many other cosmetic treatments in our office such as Photorejuvenation, Tissue Tightening Lasers, BOTOX® Cosmetic, and injectable fillers. Many patients choose to undergo combination treatments in order to achieve the maximum aesthetic result.
What is the cost of Matrix IR Laser Wrinkle Reduction?
The cost of Matrix IR™ treatments is dependant on a treatment plan. Please call our Cosmetic Coordiators to discuss and to set up a cosmetic consultation.
