Laser Surgery

What is Laser Surgery?
Benefits of Laser Surgery
Laser Surgery FAQ
Laser Surgery with Dr. Vallecillos

What is Laser Surgery?

Laser surgery uses the heat of an intense light beam to cut and cauterize skin tissue at the same time. It can be used in a variety of health related issues, including destruction of abnormal tissue, reducing or eliminating tumors, and sealing off blood vessels. It is also used extensively in cosmetic surgeries of various types because it is minimally invasive and controls bleeding. A carbon dioxide is used most often for surgical procedures, but the Nd:YAG laser can reach deeper into the tissue. The argon laser uses dyes which attract light to reduce tumors. It may also be used for skin problems and eye issues.

Benefits of Laser Surgery

Laser surgery can be used to cosmetically improve or alter the appearance. These lasers are also used to restore function, alleviate pain, and in all types of common surgeries. Patients may undergo laser surgery to reduce the signs of aging, to remove birthmarks and moles, or to change the shape of their eyes, nose, or chin. Cancerous lesions can be removed with laser surgery, and scars can be reduced.

Laser Surgery FAQ

What is the Recovery Time of Laser Surgery?

Because laser surgery produces less bleeding than standard treatment, the recovery period is often shorter. Recovery time will depend on the type of laser surgery that has been done, but patients normally return to normal activities within one to two weeks. Some laser cosmetic procedures may not interrupt a patient's routine much at all. Usually mild pain medications and cold compresses are all that are needed after laser surgery.

Do I need Anesthesia for Laser Surgery?

Laser surgery may be done using only a local anesthetic, a sedative or general anesthesia. Sometimes a doctor will combine these in some manner to get the best results.

Is Laser Surgery Safe?

Most laser surgeries are quiet safe and effective. Because the laser seals the blood vessels immediately, there is less bleeding and a lower risk of infection. It is possible for a patient to experience burns from a laser, but this is extremely rare. Allergic reactions to the anesthesia sometimes occur. It is possible for the laser to destroy healthy tissue if not handled properly.

Do I need to Prepare for Laser Surgery?

The doctor will ask the patient to stop taking any blood thinning drugs or herbal preparations before the surgery. The doctor may also prescribe a sedative, like valium, to be taken before the patient arrives at the surgical site. Vitamin K may also be suggested to control bruising after the laser surgery.

How Long Does Laser Surgery Last?

Generally, laser surgery takes less time than other types of surgeries, but this depends on the procedure being done.

Laser Surgery with Dr. Vallecillos

Dr. Glenn Vallecillos is a board certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills specializing in Laser Surgery, Skin Lasers, Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck and more. Feel free to contact Dr. Vallecillos to ask any questions you have regarding Laser Surgery. Dr. Vallecillos is an experienced Laser surgeon and looks forward to serving as your plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills.