Is Laser Treatment Painful?

One of our main goals is to ensure patient comfort during treatment. We use a local anesthetic cream to minimize the snapping sensation some patients may feel. We also bring our advanced understanding of your specific need to help reassure you that you are in good hands. Our medical team is highly educated, trained, and experienced in creating a safe, comfortable and results-driven environment in which you can feel free to relax and enjoy the process. Should you decide to take an oral painkiller or anti-anxiety prescriptions for more extensive procedures, you will need to ensure you have a family member or friend to drive you home.

Side Effects of Laser Treatment

Whether this is your first experience with laser treatments, or you’ve had many before, we will provide detailed pre- and post-procedure instructions as part of our comprehensive care and commitment to your success. It’s important to note that you may experience side effects after your treatment such as pink, bruised, or hyperpigmented (darkened) skin for up to two weeks after laser treatment.

Sun avoidance is important for at least four weeks after laser therapy, sometimes longer depending on the laser treatment. Multiple lasers or light treatments are often necessary depending on the results to be achieved. Treatments may be scheduled at intervals of anywhere from two to eight weeks, as needed.

Although side effects from laser procedures are rare when performed by our well-trained laser specialists, there are some risks in certain cases, as follows. These will be explained in detail by our medical team in advance of your treatment.

• Skin lightening (hypopigmentation)

• Skin darkening (hyperpigmentation)

• Infection

• Skin texture change

• Scarring

• Swelling

• Allergic reaction to ointment

• Activation of cold sores

• Incomplete removal of lesion

• Pain

• Blistering

• Need for further treatment or multiple treatments