Laser hair removal is a non-invasive solution to unwanted body hair that eliminates the need for shaving, waxing and plucking. Not only can it reduce unwanted body hair but it can also alleviate skin conditions associated with excess hair such as folliculitis, abrasions and discoloration caused by excess follicular development.
At times, this process may feel slightly uncomfortable; however, it should be quick and relatively pain-free. You may notice a warm or prickly sensation from the laser instrument tip as it snaps against your skin, similar to when rubber bands snap against skin surfaces.
What is Plastic Surgery?
Laser hair removal is a safe, efficient, and permanent way to rid unwanted body hair. This minimally invasive cosmetic procedure works by damaging hair follicles so they cannot produce new hair growth; treating ingrown hairs or reducing razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae). Laser hair removal provides an easy, cost-effective, permanent alternative to shaving or waxing that provides long term relief for unwanted body hair growth.
Before initiating laser hair removal treatments, your physician will conduct an in-depth clinical history review and medical records examination to make sure this procedure is suitable for you. They may also perform hormonal evaluation to understand why you have hirsutism as well as provide guidance for managing expectations effectively.
Before your laser treatment, it is recommended that you avoid epilation (plucking or waxing), excessive sun exposure and any additional forms of epilation such as plucked eyebrows. You will be provided with a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort; protective eyewear will be worn during each session of laser hair removal light penetrates through to target and damage hair follicles through heat energy targeting; typically it takes six-8 sessions for permanent results to show.
Laser light may cause temporary redness or swelling after treatment; these effects typically disappear within 24 hours. Rarely, laser hair removal may also result in pigment changes (lightening or darkening of treated skin) in certain patients – particularly those with darker skin types.
What is a Plastic Surgeon?
Laser hair removal is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses laser light to safely, efficiently and permanently eliminate unwanted body hair. It is popularly performed on small and large areas alike – including face and body hair. Laser removal offers an alternative to shaving and waxing with scientific proof that it reduces or even stops hair growth within treated areas.
Plastic surgeons typically undergo 11-14 years of education and training. Specializing in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, they work in close partnership with anesthesiologists and nurses. Furthermore, plastic surgeons must adhere to ethical standards set out by medical procedures; such as not performing unnecessary operations while informing their patients of risks and benefits associated with cosmetic treatments.
Many people mistakenly believe that plastic surgery only seeks to change someone’s appearance, when in reality its focus extends far beyond just that. For instance, when performing nasal reshaping surgery they’re not just looking to alter appearance but improve breathing and quality of life too.
Plastic surgeons play an essential role in laser hair removal by ensuring treatment is performed in an appropriate, safe, and effective manner. This includes reviewing each patient’s medical history as well as explaining how the procedure will work. They should be mindful of any allergies or medical conditions which might disrupt its outcome.
What is a Plastic Surgeon’s Role in Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal employs light technology to stop unwanted body hair growth. As one of the top three nonsurgical procedures performed in the US, it uses laser light technology to target pigment found within hair follicles – when this pigment is targeted, its damage disables and disables them altogether, leaving smooth and hair-free skin behind. Heat from laser’s pulse also vaporizes any residual hair left after treatment is complete, creating an ideal experience that leaves smooth and hairless skin behind.
Initial steps in any laser treatment start with consultation, where your aesthetician will assess your skin and hair type to make sure you are suitable. Once approved, numbing cream will be applied before lasering can begin.
Once the numbing has taken effect, you’ll sit or lie back as the laser destroys unwanted hair. You may feel small pulses of light like rubber bands snapping against your skin – these sensations depend on which area is being treated – while you might also detect an unpleasant odor due to the hair’s natural combustibility.
At least for permanent hair reduction in targeted areas, after several treatments you should experience permanent reduction. No more shaving, waxing or plucking! Depending on your skin color and hair type, maintenance treatments may need to be scheduled after the initial series has concluded.
What is the Procedure?
Laser hair removal utilizes a concentrated beam of light to target unwanted body hair at its root follicle. Hair follicle pigment absorbs laser energy, turning into heat that damages and delays future hair growth. Laser treatment works best on individuals whose skin and hair colors differ dramatically; those whose skin tone is dark while their hair color is light typically experience the best results, though treatment has proven successful on most types.
Procedure is quick, painless and convenient; however, patients may experience some degree of redness or swelling afterward; this usually dissipates within days of treatment. To further minimize any side effects from direct sunlight exposure we advise wearing sunscreen with an SPF rating greater than 30 for optimal protection of treated areas.
Prior to laser treatments, we’ll trim or shave any existing hair in the treatment area and sterilize it using topical numbing cream. Next, our therapist will use laser light pulses targeting individual follicles – some have described this needle-free painless experience as feeling similar to snapping rubber bands against their skin!
Multiple sessions may be required for laser hair removal as each area’s hair grows at differing rates and cycles through distinct phases of its growth cycle. Unfortunately, as cosmetic procedures such as these aren’t covered by health insurance plans.
What is the Recovery Period?
For laser hair removal, it is advisable to visit a surgeon with experience and one who specializes in your skin type. Prior to beginning treatment, the doctor will review your medical history including previous hair removal procedures and medicines you take before discussing risks, benefits and expectations with you.
At laser hair removal treatments, a plastic surgeon uses an apparatus to move across areas with unwanted hair on your body or face. The laser emits a beam of light which damages hair follicles, interfering with their growth cycle and thus decreasing how often hair grows back. The procedure should be relatively painless; you may feel pinpricks or the sensation of an elastic band snapping against your skin; cooling compresses can also help ease any discomfort experienced during this procedure.
After your treatment, it is normal to experience redness or swelling similar to a mild sunburn. To minimize this complication, avoid direct sun exposure and apply high SPF sunscreen; additionally use moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. You can return to normal activities immediately following the procedure.
Laser hair removal can be an excellent alternative to waxing, shaving and electrolysis for getting rid of unwanted hair. Furthermore, it may help decrease risk for ingrown hairs, folliculitis and other associated skin issues associated with hair growth. To find out if you qualify as a candidate for this procedure, schedule an appointment with one of our plastic surgeons now!
What is the Cost?
Laser hair removal can often be more cost-effective than waxing and shaving; however, it should be remembered that it is an elective cosmetic procedure not covered by most health insurance plans and that you will need to set aside money in order to cover its costs. Your plastic surgeon can discuss various payment plans with you so you don’t go into debt for this treatment option.
Cost of laser hair removal will depend on which area you wish to treat; for instance, full leg treatments typically cost more than treatments on chin or eyebrows due to covering a wider surface area. Your skin tone and pigment may also have an effect on how effective a system will work; some systems may not work well on people with darker complexions and/or darker hair, since light can easily penetrate pigment-filled pores in dark skin and hair, thus absorbing more light than needed by pigmentous patches on darkened spots on darkened or colored patches since light absorption by pigment inhibited laser systems may not work effectively enough.
Most patients require multiple sessions to achieve the results they are after, typically spread out over four or six week intervals. You should also plan yearly touch-up appointments so your results remain the same.
Search around to find the best deal and talk to your plastic surgeon about package deals or payment plans; there should be something suitable available that meets your needs.
