Laser Treatments

At our Kaiser Cosmetic Center, we offer laser treatment for a variety of spots and blemishes. Laser treatment for spider veins, telangiectasias and tattoo removal is offered by our nursing staff. Dr. Chiang can perform laser removal of unsightly skin lesions. Full face laser resurfacing is also offered.

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE

Full face laser resurfacing is performed under anesthesia in the surgery center, however, skin lesions can often be removed the day of the initial visit. Patients are asked to wash their faces and to remove any make up. Patients who have had recent sun exposure are encouraged to avoid sun exposure for approximately one month before and after laser treatment. This is because sun exposure can adversely impact the healing process, leading to hypopigmentation (light spots on the skin) or hyperpigmentation (dark spots on the skin) in the immediate treatment area.

Another consideration is the darkness of your skin. African American and Asian American patients with darker skin tones tend to heal poorer than fair skinned individual. Dr. Chiang will determine whether you are an appropriate candidate for laser treatment at the time of consultation.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Patients are advised to keep the treatment areas out of the sun for approximately one month. Patients are encouraged to wear a large brim hat and sunscreen SPF 30 or greater. The area will initially be quite raw and tender. It may form a scab or blister. During this time, patients are encouraged to use polysporin or bactroban antibacterial ointment over the treated areas. The skin should heal over in approximately one week. The vast majority of patients heal very well. In some individuals, the area may appear red for some time. This usually fades over the course of two to three months. If the area does become erythematous, hyerpigmented, hypopigmented, or hypertrophic (puffy), it is important to notify your doctor and follow up regularly. If the region does not heal appropriately, local treatments can help reduce the degree of irregularity.

If you are undergoing full face laser resurfacing, you can expect the face to be red and oozy for the first week after treatment. Redness of the face will then ensue, lasting approximately one month. Further instruction regarding post-procedural care will be given at the pre-procedural appointment.

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