What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure which can remove unwanted hair on areas of the face and body including the face, neck, chest, underarms, back, bikini line and legs. We use the Light Sheer Diode laser at Associated Plastic Surgeons & Consultants.

Who is a candidate for laser hair removal?
Candidates for laser hair removal include men and women who are looking to remove unwanted hair from the face and/or body. It's also important that laser hair removal candidates be in good physical health, psychologically stable and have realistic expectations.

What form of anesthesia is laser hair removal performed with?
Laser hair removal does not require that anesthesia be used as it produces just a slight tingling sensation during treatment. However, patients may opt for a topical anesthetic, particularly if a more sensitive area of the body is being treated.

How is laser hair removal performed?
During the laser hair removal procedure, the Light Sheer Diode Laser is passed over the treatment area and emits pulses of highly concentrated light that is absorbed the pigment in the hair follicles. This vaporizes the pigment, disabling several follicles at a time and eliminating or significantly reducing hair growth. At the same time, the special contact-cooling hand piece continually protects and cools the surrounding skin. Because the laser treats only hair that is in the active growth phase, additional sessions may be necessary.

How long is the procedural time for laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal may take anywhere from a few minutes to complete for smaller treatment areas up to an hour or more for larger areas. Multiple treatments may be necessary.

How much pain is associated with laser hair removal?
There is little pain associated with laser hair removal and, as such, anesthesia is not necessary. Treatment produces just a slight tingling sensation. If more sensitive areas of the body are being treated, a topical anesthetic may be offered.

What sort of recovery is there after laser hair removal?
There is little downtime or recovery associated with laser hair removal. Some minor redness or swelling may result immediately after treatment. However, these side effects are usually quick to subside.

How soon after the laser hair removal treatment can patients return to their work?
Most patients are able to return to work and most other normal activities immediately after undergoing laser hair removal.

Are the results of laser hair removal permanent?
While the results of laser hair removal are permanent, multiple sessions may be necessary in order to target all of the hairs in a given area. This is because the laser treats only hair follicles in the active growth phase.