"Laser resurfacing with Erbium-YAG" is a surgical method used to improve facial wrinkles and treat skin imperfections such as post-acne scars. The Erbium-YAG laser emits an intense beam of light that instantly vaporizes tissues and the skin, with selective action on the targeted area and minimal impact on surrounding tissues.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and/or sedation, as each pulse can cause a painful sensation. There is typically no pain during the postoperative period. Immediately after the therapy, the skin appears red and swollen, and dressings are applied to it, which need to be changed in the following days and removed permanently after 6 days. During the healing period, itching may occur in the treated area, which usually subsides in a few days. It is essential for the patient not to scratch the area.
The skin tone improves within a few weeks, but in some cases, redness can persist for up to 30 days. After one week, makeup can be applied. During this period, direct exposure to sunlight is strictly prohibited to prevent the onset of hyperpigmentation. A rare complication is hypopigmentation, where white patches may repigment spontaneously after a few months or become permanent. Despite all precautions, there may be a temporary difference between the treated and untreated areas. The risk of scarring is minimal and can be further reduced by strictly following the doctor's guidelines. Antibiotic prophylaxis is prescribed to prevent potential infections. Temporary acne breakouts and/or milia are possible after healing. Lastly, there may be insufficient improvement in treated wrinkles and/or skin lesions.