How is Lser Hair Removal performed?

Laser hair removal is a time-consuming but relatively straightforward process. You may be given a prescription for topical anesthetic cream and may also be instructed how to apply this cream (BLT) at home. We can also apply the cream in the office if desired. This cream greatly reduces the discomfort associated with the laser hair removal process. Prior to treatment the hairs will be shaved and the laser treatment will proceed. Treatment times vary from a few minutes for areas such as the chin and neck to a few hours for extensive areas of the legs, back and chest.

After the procedure cool compresses and soothing gels are applied to the treated area and patients spend time relaxing before being discharged. Patients are asked to return in one week for a follow-up visit and then are examined monthly in order to determine when it is best to re-treat the involved areas.



Risks Associated with Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal has proven to be a very safe procedure when performed in physicians offices, not at spas and strip malls. Since laser pulses are a constant energy, there is little chance of scarring associated with this process. In certain instances temporary increased or decreased pigmentation will be noted within the lasered sites, especially in more darkly pigmented patients. In certain cases there may be some degree of crusting during the postoperative period which is treated by the use of bland emollients or topical antibiotics.