INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING ERBIUM LASER RESURFACING

Laser resurfacing vapourises the surface layer or layers of the skin to remove blemishes such as spots, wrinkles and sun damage.

The precise treatment delivered by the Erbium laser means one can simply use one’s eye to gauge the end point of the procedure. Treatment of a brown spot ends when the brown spot disappears; treatment of a wrinkle ends when the wrinkle disappears. There is a precise knowledge of what the final result is likely to be at the end of the treatment.

There is less damage to surrounding tissues with the Erbium laser. This allows for treatment of areas not previously able to be resurfaced with laser. Areas such as the neck, chest and hands can be treated. There is less risk of hypopigmentation (loss of skin pigmentation) with the Erbium laser).

Resurfacing is used to treat facial wrinkling and discolouration, often caused by sun exposure over years. It is also of use for the treatment of acne and other scarring. Laser resurfacing is a supplement to facial surgery. It does not replace structural facelift surgery for the correction of facial laxity which occurs with aging. However the results of resurfacing even for rather severe wrinkling, can often be surprising.

While it is usually manageable to treat small facial areas with local anaesthetic cream (Emla) and nerve blocks, larger areas are best done under deep sedation or very short general anaesthetic.

The Erbium laser resurfacing produces a shallow wound that heals within one week. Our post laser programme will instruct you about cleaning the lasered area and how to use of prescribed applications during this early healing phase. You will experience a slight burning feeling and light crust formation.

Complications may include permanent colour abnormalities, either lighter or darker - however, this is rare providing precautions are taken. Herpes Simplex infections can also be a complication. I always prescribe antibiotic and antiviral medication prior to laser treatment to avoid infection.

Healing of the facial skin surface is usually complete within a week (faster for lighter treatments), but may be slower in other areas. You are able to use make up and other cosmetics once this phase is over.

The lasered skin will look pink for up to eight weeks but you can use concealer and foundation to hide this.