Laser Hair Removal FAQs

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Laser Hair Removal FAQs

What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive, nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that can permanently reduce unwanted hair on the face or body. Multiple sessions are usually required.

Who is the best candidate for laser hair removal?
Any individual who wants to remove unwanted facial or body hair and is realistic in their expectations is a good candidate for laser hair removal.

Are there any limitations with laser hair removal?
Multiple sessions are usually required. In addition, patients with darker pigmentation may not respond well, and blonde, white and gray hairs tend to be less responsive and may not be able to be treated.

Is anesthesia used for laser hair removal?
In most cases, anesthesia is not necessary for laser hair removal. Patients who are particularly sensitive to pain may be given a topical anesthetic.

How is laser hair removal performed?
A low-energy laser is used and the energy passes through the patient's skin and is absorbed the pigment in the hair follicle. With each treatment, a percentage of follicles are immediately and permanently disabled.

How long does the actual laser hair removal procedure last?
Depending on the size of the area being treated, the procedure can take anywhere from several minutes to several hours. Multiple sessions are typically required.

Is laser hair removal a painful procedure?
Patients typically experience minimal pain during the laser hair removal procedure. For those who are particularly sensitive to pain, a topical anesthetic may be used.

What is the recovery like after laser hair removal?
There is no downtime after laser hair removal and patients can immediately return to work and normal activities. Some patients do experience temporary reddening and/or localized swelling which tends to fade within a few days. Sun exposure should be limited for several days.

Will I need to take off from work after laser hair removal?
Patients are typically able to immediately return to work and other normal activities.

Are there any risks or complications with laser hair removal?
Risks with laser hair removal are minimal. Some patients experience slight reddening and/or localized swelling after the procedure and lasting for several days. Individuals with darker skin tones or even tanned skin may not respond well to treatment and the procedure may potentially damage the skin.

How much does laser hair removal cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average surgeon/physician fee charged by their member doctors for laser hair removal in 2004 was $428.

Does insurance cover laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is typically not covered by insurance.

Is it possible to get financing for laser hair removal?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a surgeon to perform laser hair removal?
It's important that you do your homework and carefully choose the surgeon to perform your procedure. First, make sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• How many laser hair removal procedures has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• Is the surgical facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

Are the results of laser hair removal permanent?
Laser hair removal results can be permanent, typically after several sessions, though there are no guarantees. The treated area will not necessarily be completely devoid of hair. Some patients may not experience permanent hair removal but may instead experience a reduction in the amount of hair in the treated area or even a lightening or thinning of hair.

When are the results of laser hair removal apparent?
Patients typically need to wait a full year (two growth cycles) before they see the full effect of the laser hair removal procedure.

Answers to permanent laser hair removal questions.