Risks and recovery in case of laser skin resurfacing will vary depending on the extent of treatment and the type of laser used for a particular patient. In any case, the risks are lower compared to cosmetic surgery skin rejuvenation alternatives. Recovery may take a longer time with laser skin resurfacing, if ablative lasers are used over a larger surface area.
However, a gentler laser skin resurfacing procedure involving only fractional laser will reduce the discomfort and downtime. The treatment provider will explain about the potential risks and recovery issues involved in different treatment options at the time of pre-op consultation.
Board certified and prolific plastic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards provides laser skin resurfacing to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding communities and neighbors in The Silver State.
Temporary Side Effects
Unlike plastic surgery, the side effects following laser skin resurfacing are usually very minor and fade away in a short time. Some of the common side effects may include redness in the treated sites, swelling, and moderate irritation similar to the feeling created by mild sunburn. In rare cases, more severe side effects such as scarring, burning or a change in skin pigmentation may occur.
At the time of initial consultation, the treatment provider will carefully evaluate the patient’s risk factors and discuss the likelihood of side effects and complications. An appropriate laser skin resurfacing treatment plan will be customized for the patient to ensure maximum effectiveness with minimum risks and side effects.
Estimated Recovery Time
While the recovery period will vary depending on the size of the treated area and the type of laser used, most patients will recover within two weeks. During this period, the treated areas will sufficiently heal and a new layer of healthy skin will emerge. Redness or pinkness of the skin will, however, last for a longer period.
In some cases, the skin discoloration may persist for several months. If this happens, the patient can continue to cover it up with certain types of makeup in consultation with the treatment provider, until the discoloration completely disappears. Patients seeking laser skin resurfacing treatment should plan to take time off from work for about one to two weeks in order to have a safe and comfortable recovery.
Potential Risks
Although laser skin resurfacing is a safe procedure as long as it is performed by a qualified provider, patients should be aware of potential risks. Infections and abnormal healing, though rare, do occur in a few cases. If the patient is prone to scarring after a minor injury, they should avoid laser skin resurfacing. Skin disorders, acne and cold sores can increase the risk of complications and should be discussed with the treatment provider.
Hyperpigmentation is a key risk for people with darker skin who seek laser skin resurfacing. In rare cases, hypopigmentation or permanent lightening of the skin may also occur. The patient should discuss their medical history with the treatment provider, and disclose information about any underlying health condition, drug allergy, immune disorder, previous surgery and prescription medications that they may be currently using.
Experienced and stellar cosmetic surgeon Dr. Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV, and nearby areas for laser skin resurfacing.
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.