Laser hair removal is a non-surgical procedure, and it does not involve the potential risks and complications typically associated with a cosmetic surgery procedure. However, it is still important for the patient to be aware of the risk and safety aspects of laser hair removal.
During the initial consultation, the treatment provider will educate the patient on all aspects of laser hair removal, including its potential side effects and risks. Board certified and tremendous plastic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards provides laser hair removal to patients in Las Vegas, NV and surrounding communities.
Common Risks
Skin Burns
Laser devices can produce powerful heat, which is targeted on the hair follicles to reduce the unwanted hair. Although the procedure, unlike plastic surgery, is non-invasive, but it may still cause mild skin burns in a few patients. Patients with darker skin are more prone to laser hair removal burns because the darker pigment will absorb the laser light more readily.
An experienced laser treatment provider will be able to deliver controlled and precise laser energy in targeted areas to minimize the risk of skin burns. The burns, in most instances, will be mild, but in rare cases, severe burns may occur.
Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation
Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of the skin in the treated areas that may occur following the laser hair removal. The laser treatment can stimulate the production of melanin, producing a reaction similar to a sun tan.
Hypopigmentation, on the other hand, involves skin lightening that may also occur after the laser hair removal treatment. Laser light absorption may inhibit the production of melanin in some patients, resulting in the loss of pigment.
Other Risks
Some other risks that may be potentially associated with a laser hair removal treatment will include:
- Eye injuries, which may occur if the eyes are not properly protected during the laser treatment procedure.
- Itching in the treated sites is a common side effect, which may last for a while during and after the treatment.
- Redness in the skin may occur, and swelling around the hair follicles may also be seen after the treatment.
- Tingling sensation, numbness and pain around the treated sites are common side effects, which will gradually resolve on their own.
- Mild bruising may occur if the patient has sensitive skin.
- Formation of scabs and crusting may occur in the treated areas in a few cases.
Most of these side effects will normally disappear within a short period on their own. One of the rare but significant side effects is the occurrence of infection after laser hair removal. The patient should keep the treated sites clean after the procedure to mitigate the risk. Purple coloring of the skin on the tanned areas is another very rare side effect of this procedure.
The patient should follow the post-treatment care instructions of the laser hair removal expert in order to minimize the risks. Internal and external heat exposure and sunlight exposure must be avoided. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV and other cities and communities in The Silver State.
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.