Recovery
After laser resurfacing surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising and discomfort such as itching and a sunburn-like sensation. Swelling can be eased by the use of cold packs, and any pain should be moderate and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication. The new skin will begin to form during the first few post-surgery days so your face may look quite pink.
Daily sunscreen is highly recommended for at least six months after laser skin treatment to protect the sensitive new skin from sun exposure and prevent any further sun damage. If a bandage was applied after the laser facial resurfacing surgery, it will probably be changed in a few days, but it will be completely removed after approximately one week, and an ointment is also applied. It is important to keep the bandage dry, so you won’t be able to shower until it is removed. If the treated area has not been bandaged, you will need to wash your face several times daily. Treat your treated skin with caution, and after gently washing your face, you will need to apply an ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to the treated area.
Scabs may form, and last for about 10 days. Don’t pick at the scabs, as this may cause scarring. The amount of time needed for recovery depends on the extent of the areas that were treated with laser facial resurfacing and the individual’s capacity to heal. When you go home, rest as much as possible to aid healing.
Skin redness may persist for several weeks, or longer. The redness gradually lightens to pink, and then to a lighter, more natural color. Bruising should subside after a few days. You can start to wear make up again approximately two weeks after the procedure to cover-up the redness and should be able to return to work at this time. Your doctor will advise you to avoid any contact sports for four to six weeks. Your laser skin resurfacing doctor will provide you with precise instructions on how to care for the laser treated skin. Your doctor may prescribe an anti-bacterial medication to minimise the probability of complications, an anti-inflammatory and a steroid to further reduce inflammation. You will also be advised about signs to look for that may cause concern. Be sure to attend your follow-up appointment(s) so that your doctor can check that your skin is healing effectively after your laser facial resurfacing procedure.
Ensure that you protect your skin after laser facial resurfacing from further sun damage by avoiding exposure to the sun for at least six to twelve months, until the pigment has completely returned to your skin. It will take a few months for the full final results of the treatment to be visible. A series of laser skin treatments is normally required to achieve improvement in skin texture and clarity and repeated treatments are essential to maintain your results, as the skin will continue to age and new lines, wrinkles and other skin blemishes will continue to form.
