What To Do After Cosmetic Surgery....Post Op Instruction...Laser Skin Resurfacing

This is a continuation of a series of articles dealing with Cosmetic Surgery, precisely post op instructions.  This particular article is dealing with the post operative instructions for Laser Skin Resurfacing.

Just a little about this procedure. Laser Skin Resurfacing is one of the most popular anti-aging remedies. This procedure improves the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, scars and discolored areas of the skin, (hyperpigmentation), which occurs primarily around the mouth and eyes. However, it can be used for large areas of the face.

• You will be asked to keep the treated area moist with a petroleum based ointment, such as Aquaphor, reapplying as needed.
• Take the entire course of antibiotics, (such as Cipro), antiviral, (such as Valtrex), and antifungal, (such as Diflucan).
• Limit any activity that would cause any stress or stain to the head/facial are i.e. heavy lifting, pulling, or pushing.
• Use provided daily cleanser to clean treated area(s).
• Take extra care when the treated area so as not to rub off the crust formation, as this can cause bleeding and scarring.
• Diluted vinegar soaks to treated area(s) may be ordered, if so apply diluted vinegar soaked gauze 3 times a day.
• Makeup can be applied after all the crusting has resolved, usually after 7-10 days.  Use natural mineral make-up to minimize risk of infection and reaction to the newly exposed skin.
• Avoid sun exposure in the early postoperative period.  Excessive sun exposure during the time could cause changes in the pigment.  When the crusting dissipates you will need to use sunscreen daily for the first few months.

• These are things you can expect Post op for Laser Skin Resurfacing.
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• Crusting and itching. The crusting that occurs is expected, do not remove. It will gradually fall off over 7-10 day period. Itching is a normal sign of healing, but if it's intolerable, oral Benedryl may be used according manufacturer's instructions.
• As the old skin peels away, skin with a brighter pink color will appear. This is healthy new skin and can have the appearance of red sunburned skin. Do not be alarmed. This color is normal and usually fades after about 2-4 weeks. Make-up can be worn once the new skin has formed.

• Severe pain not responding to the pain medication(s).
• A rash, small blisters, or the surrounding area, (untreated area) becomes red
• A fever ( temp. 100.4)

As was stated this is from the prospective of someone that actually works for a doctor that practices Cosmetic Surgery. Of course your doctor will give you specific Post Op instructions for Laser Skin Resurfacing, and these are to be followed to the letter. This can simply serve as a backup plan.

DO NOT SMOKE!  SMOKING INCREASES THE RISK OF COMPLICATIONS AND DELAY THE HEALING PROCESS.