Recovering from Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser Skin Resurfacing Overview Recovery Possible Complications	Frequent Questions $50 Consultation Certificate

In most cases you will experience some mild swelling and discomfort immediately following your procedure. However, with ice packs and medication prescribed by your surgeon, most of this discomfort can be minimized. When your laser skin resurfacing procedure is complete, your surgeon may apply creams or ointments to your skin until it is healed. Some surgeons will choose to place a protective covering over the treated areas to protect them during the first 5 - 10 days of your recovery.

After this period your surgeon will remove the bandage and may apply a thin layer of ointment to your skin. At this time your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions about how to wash and care for your treated skin. In the days immediately following your procedure, you may notice that some small crusts or flakes have developed on your treated area. It's important not to pick these flakes off because it may leave scars. They normally will disappear by themselves after about 10 days.

In the weeks immediately following laser skin resurfacing, your skin will normally remain bright pink or red. Your surgeon may prescribe medication so this color will subside more quickly. The pinkness in your skin color can last to some degree for up to six months. However, most women are able to apply makeup after two weeks so the pinkness is less noticeable. In rare cases, your skin may be too sensitive to wear makeup. If this happens, ask your surgeon if he or she can recommend an alternative type of makeup that may not cause your skin to react.

You will want to protect your skin's treated areas from the sun for several months following your procedure until your skin color has returned to normal. Using sun protection lotions will help you maintain the positive results you have achieved with laser skin resurfacing, and help you avoid any new damage to your skin.

If you must be in the sun, wear hats that will shade your face and use sun block lotions with an SPF of 15 or higher. If laser skin resurfacing was performed in the areas around your eyes, wear high-quality sunglasses with UVA and 100% UVB filters.

Final results from laser skin resurfacing treatments may take several months. However, once the pinkness fades away, most women notice dramatic improvements in the smoothness and fresh feel of their skin. Though your results will be long lasting, they may not be permanent. In the years following your treatment, you may still develop the lines and wrinkles that result from aging and natural facial movements.

Laser skin resurfacing treatments can usually be repeated throughout your lifetime. However, by taking basic measures to protect your skin, you should be able to make the results you achieve through your initial treatment last for many years. Click here to request a certificate good for a Free Laser Skin Resurfacing Consultation and a chance to discuss your desired outcome with our surgeon.