Er:YAG laser

All medical procedures carry risks. With Er: YAG laser, possible risks include:

Edema (swelling) of the skin may occur and can be minimized by keeping the area upright. Urticaria (itching) often times occurs as the old skin is shed and the new skin is being formed. If any of the above symptoms intensify, your clinician should be notified. A cool compress placed on the area provides comfort. The treated area should be cared for delicately. Limited activity may be advised, as well as no spa, steam, sauna, or shower use.

Discomfort, especially a sunburn feeling, may persist for a few days.

PIH or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (browning) and hypopigmentation (lightening) have been noted. These conditions usually resolve within 2-6 months. Permanent color change is a rare risk. Vigilant care must be taken to avoid sun exposure (tanning beds included) before and after the treatment to reduce the risk of color change. After the skin has gone through its healing phase and is intact, sunscreen and / or sun block should be applied when sun exposure is necessary.

Infection is not usual after treatments; however herpes simplex virus infections around the mouth can occur following treatments. This applies to both individuals with a past history of the virus or individuals with no known history. Other signs of an infection can be a fever, purulent (pus) material, severe redness, swelling in the area, and skin that is hot to the touch. Should these symptoms occur, the clinician must be notified to prescribe appropriate medical care.

Allergic reaction is uncommon from treatment. Some persons may have a hive-like appearance in the treated area. Some persons have localised reactions to cosmetics or topical preparations. Systemic reactions are rare.

If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that this treatment could contribute to a recurrence.

What to expect after your treatment:

• Redness normally persists for 24 hours – to 3 days depending upon the depth of the treatment.
• Oozing may persist for 24 hours after the treatment.
• Swelling is typically a short-term response. Use of a cold compress or ice packs will help to relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first night after the treatment.
• If an antiviral was prescribed for you, continue to take as directed.
• While not commonly needed, post treatment discomfort may be relieved by oral pain relievers.
• A cold compress or an ice pack can be used to provide comfort if the treated area is especially warm. This is typically only needed within the first 12 hours after the treatment.
• Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser; e.g., Avene Tolerance supplied in your Avery aftercare pack, beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands to gently apply the cleanser and water and finish by patting dry with a soft cloth. Be careful not to rub the treated area.
• After cleansing your face, apply the Avene Cicalfate supplied in your Avery aftercare pack, taking care to cover all treated areas. The cream provides a protective barrier that will hold moisture into the skin and provides protection to the skin from pollutants in the air as the skin heals. Typically, Avene Cicalfate is applied for the first 3-5 days after treatment. Reapply the occlusive barrier as needed. Do not allow the treated area to dry out.
• Peeling and flaking will likely occur around day 3-5 post treatment and should be allowed to come off naturally. DO NOT PICK, RUB, OR FORCE OFF ANY SKIN DURING THE HEALING PROCESS, THIS COULD RESULT IN SCARRING AND INFECTION! Gently washing the skin more frequently will help to promote the peeling process.
• Avoid direct sunlight while your skin is healing. A sunblock should be worn on a daily basis to help prevent any hyperpigmentation that could be caused by direct and indirect sunlight.
• Once skin has healed you may begin to wear makeup, but avoid makeup until this time.
• When showering, be sure to wash your hair behind you to avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area - it might sting.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed.
• ProFractional treatments are usually performed in a series. Your next treatment will typically be within 4-6 weeks.

There may be some degree of swelling immediately post treatment; however, if you have excessive swelling or any of the following signs of infection, you should contact Avery immediately. Signs of infection include:

• Drainage – looks like pus.
• Increased warmth at or around the treated area.
• Fever

ProFractional laser treatments should not be undertaken if you have an infectious or connective tissue disease, are immunocompromised, pregnant, have a medical condition that may affect wound healing, are intolerant to anesthetic based agents, have a propensity for keloid scar formations, if you use anticoagulant medications, or have used isotretinoin (Accutaine) within the past year.

Avoid alcohol in the week prior to your treatment because it can increase the risk of bruising and swelling. Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks prior.

The area to be treated will be cleaned to remove any dirt, makeup or moisture. Treatment times can vary depending on the area being treated. Some pain and discomfort are to be expected, although this varies depending on individual factors, such as pain tolerance level. Eye protection will be provided for you to wear during your treatment.

Our treatments are tailored to the individual and pricing is provided within the context of consultation. For a price guide please refer to our Treatment Menu, email us at [email protected] or call our Care Team on (02) 4002 4150 to discuss.

ProFractional laser treatments can be paired with other treatments to address a variety of skin conditions, with attention being paid to when these treatments occur in relation to the 2940nm Er:YAG. A consultation is the best way to discuss the treatment options suited to your concerns and goals. To book your non-surgical consultation email us at [email protected] or call our care team on (02) 4002 4150.

A minimum interval of 9-12 weeks between treatments is recommended.

We understand that you’re busy and your availability can change. We ask that for all non-surgical appointments you provide 72 hours’ notice so that we can reallocate your time. Less than 72 hours’ notice for a missed appointment, reschedule, or cancellation of your appointment will result in forfeiture of your $100 prepayment. Please see our Terms & Conditions.