FAQs

How do lasers generally work?

There are a variety of laser therapies designed to improve and/or reduce certain skin conditions. Lasers deliver a light source into selectively targeted areas of the skin that are absorbed and destroyed without affecting the surrounding tissue. (i.e. hair follicles, vascular abnormalities, pigmented lesions, collagen fibers or sebaceous glands). Each individual and condition is unique and requires settings that will safely maximize your results. This is the most efficient way of addressing unwanted cosmetic issues in the safest way possible.

How should I prepare for a laser treatment?

Like with any procedure, you should be seen for a consultation appointment to discuss whether you are a good candidate for treatment, go over risk factors, benefits and cost. During your consultation, the doctor will review your medical history to make sure there are no underlying circumstances that will affect your procedure. Most laser treatments are sensitive to TAN skin, so if you have recently exposed yourself to the sun (whether outside or in a tanning bed) it is recommended you postpone this treatment until AFTER the tan has faded (anywhere from 1-2 weeks). This also includes artificial tans (tan in a bottle, spray tans, etc). – so please be sure to completely scrub off any remnant tan without irritating the skin prior to treatment. There is also a possibility of swelling and/or bruising with some procedures, so try to avoid any blood thinners (Alcohol, Aspirin, Advil, Ibuprofen, etc) for 72 hours before your treatment. Tylenol is safe to take.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments required depends on the type of laser you are using and the area(s) being treated. Multiple visits are usually required and will be discussed during your initial consultation.

How long do the results last for?

Results will vary from person to person, depending on the laser or treatment performed. However, with each treatment, significant improvement should be seen. Like with most cosmetic procedures, maintenance visits are suggested to keep the status of your skin looking healthy and youthful.

Are laser treatments painful?

Everyone's pain threshold is different, but most people find it tolerable. The laser feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin for a brief second, followed by a slight tingling sensation (similar to waxing). Depending on the area(s) being treated, a topical anesthetic may be applied prior to your procedure to minimize discomfort.

Can darker skin types be treated by the lasers?

Darker skin types are limited to certain laser treatments that are "color blind" and not attracted to pigment. People with darker skin may still be treated, but results are typically slower and more sessions are required (the doctor and/or nurse will evaluate and recommend whether or not a laser is appropriate for you). In some cases, a test spot can be performed to assess any risk of unnecessary injury to the skin. Please refer to the Menu of Services to see which lasers are sensitive to skin type.

What are possible risks and side effects?

Most people experience no complications or side effects from laser treatments, but there is always a possibility that some may occur. Immediately following treatment, patients may experience short-term redness, swelling, tingling and itching of the surrounding skin. In rare occasions, crusting, scabbing, bruising and an increase or decrease in pigmentation can occur. Side effects generally are temporary and will usually resolve itself over time.

How much do laser treatments cost?

The cost of a laser procedure varies depending on the area(s) being treated, the number of treatments needed and other considerations. Based on these factors a single treatment can range from $100 up to several hundreds. During your consultation, the prices will be discussed for your particular case.

Does medical insurance cover the cost of the laser treatments?

The laser treatments that the Lasky Laser Center provides are considered "cosmetic" and are typically not covered by conventional medical insurance.

Which treatment(s) works best to reduce my sunspots/freckles?

The IPL/Photofacial treatment will dramatically reduce sun-induced discoloration within three to five treatments performed at three week intervals. The benefits of IPL/Photofacial treatments are visible improvements in the skin with minimal discomfort and little to no downtime. This procedure is usually done in the Fall/ Winter months when the sun is at it's weakest.

Which treatment(s) works best to reduce redness?

The Vbeam laser works best to reduce the amount of vascularity that is responsible for that red looking appearance on the skin. These treatments can be done on the face, neck and chest and usually require 4-6 treatments to get a positive outcome.

Are there any lasers that work for the wrinkles/crepiness around my eyes? I'm not ready to do Botox yet…

The NLite Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that helps stimulate collagen to soften fine lines around the eyes. After three treatments, patients typically see about 30% improvement in the appearance of fine lines and crepiness. This laser therapy is also effective around the mouth, neck, décolletage and some areas of the body.

I have these red spots on my body that look like Blood Blisters… Can lasers help with those?

Yes, the VBeam is great for removing those cosmetic nuisances. Usually one to two treatments are required to get rid of them entirely, but new spots may appear over time.

My jawline isn't as firm as it once was; what treatment works best for softening jowls?

If you're not quite ready for surgery then the Thermage treatment is your best solution for tightening/shrinking the skin. This radiofrequency device can redefine the contours along the jawline and under the chin, ultimately creating smoother, tighter skin.