What are the risks of skin rejuvenation and resurfacing?

Although it is not as involved as surgical aesthetic procedures, skin rejuvenation is a medical procedure and does carry some risk. Depending on skin type, medical conditions, allergies and medications, some patients will be at increased risk for more severe complications.

It is important the treatments are performed by fully trained and certified professionals, in a medical office, under the direct supervision of a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Possible skin rejuvenation and resurfacing risks include:

• Activation of herpes zoster infection in susceptible patients
• Burns and scarring
• Delayed wound healing (particularly concerning for patients who have been on Accutane)
• Hypersensitivity or allergic type reactions
• Increased susceptibility to sunburns
• Infection
• Pigmentation irregularities (light spots or dark spots)
• Skin surface irregularities
• Textural changes

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon.

Special note about sun exposure

Absolute sun protection is essential for the first year after any of these resurfacing treatments to prevent irregular pigmentation. Diligent sun protection for life will help to maintain your new, younger, smoother skin.