What are the Risks of Using Lasers?
by Margaret in Laser Scar Removal
As with any medical procedure, laser scar removal is not without its risks. However, the risk of complications with this procedure is quite low, and many people experience impressive results with laser treatment. Most side effects are temporary, although a few persist for several months or are permanent risks. Here are a few of the long-lasting risks you take when undergoing laser scar removal:
- Long-lasting erythema, or redness of the skin. This usually occurs after the use of CO2 lasers, which are the oldest form of laser used. Most patients experience short-term redness and swelling lasting a few days. If long-lasting, it could lead to permanent skincolor changes if it persists for 6-12 months after the procedure.
- Hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopignmentation (lightening), could occur on the treated skin area. Avoid the sun after your treatment, as this can make the condition worse. Some lightening of the skin may be due to the laser’s removal of the top skin layers, which may be tanner than the underlying layers. If this is the case, removal of the tanned skin should be regarded as a benefit, as newer and healthier skin has been exposed. Other cases of skin pigmentation changes are due to the use of lasers which penetrate deeper into the skin.
- Scarring- Very rarely, the skin may blister and then scar. Do not pick or scratch at the treated area, as this increases the risk of scarring. Scarring is a risk in any procedure that removes the surface of the skin. To keep the skin from becoming infected, use an antibiotic ointment. Your doctor may prescribe an ointment for this purpose; if so, use it exactly as directed.
To reduce your risks when undergoing laser scar removal, choose a reputable doctor with a good track record. As with any medical procedure, your safety should be first when determining the best treatment option for you. Overly aggressive laser treatment methods may increase your risks, so be sure to take this into account when planning your course of treatment. Your doctor should be more concerned about your safety than about pressuring you to sign up for the procedure.
The doctor you choose should be well trained in laser scar removal using the same type of laser as will be used on your scar. The laser settings can affect your risk of complications, because higher settings are more aggressive and can cause more damage. Lasers should only be used in the hands of professionals.
Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly, particularly concerning post-treatment care of the treated area. To avoid these complications, use an experienced laser scar removal center and properly care for the treated skin after the procedure.
Related posts:
- Introducing Lasers for Scar Removal
- Does Laser Scar Removal Have Side Effects?
- Choosing the Best Scar Removal Clinic
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2 Responses to “What are the Risks of Using Lasers?”
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Is it okay to go for indoor tanning 3 months after scar treatment?
I recommend that you consult the clinic that will be or have performed your scar treatment. You should avoid exposing the treated area to direct sunlight after treatment and that would also include indoor tanning.