After laser skin resurfacing for wrinkle or acne scar removal

Recovery from laser skin resurfacing is easy

Here is a time line of what to expect after your laser skin resurfacing procedure for wrinkle or acne scar removal:

> Immediately following the laser skin resurfacing, the cosmetic surgeon will apply a dressing to your skin.

> Within a few hours of the laser therapy, swelling and "crusting" of the skin are normal. You will use ointments to keep the skin soft and elastic

> Continue to use the ointments for seven to ten days following laser skin surgery.

> In about a month, the redness of skin caused by the laser therapy will usually fade.

> You may be asked to change your diet a bit - not eating anything hard to chew that puts pressure on the facial muscles

> After your laser skin resurfacing therapy you will also be asked to avoid extreme hot or cold temperature.

> In about 10-14 days after laser skin resurfacing, new skin will emerge that is pink, soft, and fine.

> You will need to use strong sun block for some time to protect your new (wrinkle-free and/or acne scar free!) skin

> You may notice that your new skin remains light for a while until new pigment is formed after laser therapy.

That's it - the aftereffects of laser skin resurfacing for wrinkle reduction or acne scar removal are fairly benign. As always, contact your cosmetic surgeon immediately if you feel like your recovery from laser skin therapy is deviating from what you think it should, or you have additional swelling, itching, or pain.