Recovery time is an important topic of discussion with our patients who are interested in undergoing the Cortex CO2/Erbium Yag laser treatment. Since Cortex is one of the more ablative lasers that we use for laser skin resurfacing in our Pittsburgh office, we tell our patients to expect at 6-7 days of recovery from this laser treatment. When we say “downtime”, patients should understand that most of this time is social downtime, as opposed to clinical downtime.
The day of and the day after treatment, patients can anticipate the skin to look sunburned and it may feel a bit tight. Cool compresses are encouraged to ease the discomfort. Patients can also take Tylenol for any pain that they may have as needed. By day 2, the skin will appear somewhat bronzed in color but still will be darker. On day 3, the skin may begin to peel and the area will likely itch. Creating a vinegar and water solution can sometimes relieve the itching sensation. By day 5, the peeling should start to slow down. At this point, patients can even use mineral-based makeup if they would like to. By day 8, the skin should be back to baseline, the redness should diminish, and patients should begin to notice results.
During recovery, it is extremely important to always keep the skin moisturized with the proper ointment. We will provide you with specific recommendations during a consultation. In addition to moisturizer, patients must cleanse the area with a gentle cleanser and apply SPF a few times a day. It is vital that patients protect their skin from the sun during this time.
Many patients combine laser skin resurfacing with Botox, Dysport, Restylane®, or other dermal filler treatments to get optimal results. However, we typically recommend that several weeks separate these injectable treatments from a Cortex treatment.
Pre-treatment instructions and post-laser care directions will be reviewed with you prior to your scheduled appointment during the consultation process. Please call our Patient Care Coordinator for more information on Cortex or email us.
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FAQs
Recovery times will vary depending on your treatment
What is the recovery time for erbium yag laser? ›
Patients sometimes compare this experience to a sunburn. Most patients recover fully from an erbium laser resurfacing treatment session within three to five days.
How long does it take to recover from CO2 face resurfacing? ›
CO2 laser resurfacing typically requires three days to a week of downtime. Many patients have noticeable redness for up to two weeks which gradually subsides to reveal a more even complexion. Some pinkness can remain for several weeks to months as collagen remodels.
What is the downtime for erbium yag? ›
Social Downtime: Erbium Yag treatments generally entail shorter social downtime, ranging from a few days to a week. CO2 laser treatments may involve a more extended recovery period, typically one to two weeks, due to the deeper skin resurfacing involved.
How do you take care of your skin after erbium laser resurfacing? ›
After several days, begin to use ZO Gentle Cleanser with water for a gentle foam. It is very important to keep the skin moist. Gently massage a light layer of Aquaphor over the treated areas to maintain moisture and prevent crusting. The gentle massage must be done throughout the day and night.
How do I take care of my skin after a YAG laser? ›
First 24 to 48 Hours After Your Treatment
Most patients are given Aquaphor as an occlusive ointment to hydrate and protect their newly treated skin. It is very important to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 45 or higher and to avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks after laser procedures to avoid skin damage.
How soon can you drive after YAG laser treatment? ›
Care/ Restrictions after YAG capsulotomy procedure
You can continue to have normal routine activity, but you are strongly advised not to drive on the day of procedure. You can drive from the next day. Most of the patients do not need to take home any eye drops after the laser procedure.
What is the downside of CO2 laser resurfacing? ›
Disadvantages of CO2 Resurfacing
The patient's skin will be weepy for two weeks and will require thorough cleaning four to five times daily, along with application of ointment to keep the skin from scabbing. The areas can take up to three weeks to heal. After that, the skin will remain pink or red for more time.
How long does your face stay swollen after CO2 laser? ›
The severity of the swelling involved depends on your skin and the depth of the treatment performed, but it should subside within one to two weeks.
How can I speed up healing after a CO2 laser? ›
Top 10 CO2 Laser Recovery Tips for Fast Recovery & Best Results
- Listen to Your Doctor's Advice. After your CO2 laser treatment, it's important to do what your doctor says. ...
- Keep Skin Moist. ...
- Stay Out of the Sun. ...
- Drink Lots of Water. ...
- Don't Pick Your Skin. ...
- Use Gentle Skin Products. ...
- Sleep with Your Head Up. ...
- Eat Healthy Foods.
Erbium laser resurfacing is an excellent option for those who want to eliminate fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and acne scars with minimal discomfort and little to no downtime.
Is erbium YAG laser painful? ›
The Erbium laser can be painful, but Dr. Green will apply or administer anesthesia before the procedure to minimize patient discomfort.
What are the side effects of erbium YAG? ›
The most common side effects are mild swelling and some discomfort in the first few days after your erbium laser resurfacing treatment. Some patients also experience redness that can last throughout the healing process. Healing may take one to two weeks, depending on the individual.
Does erbium tighten skin? ›
It also causes less post-operative redness and swelling, which provides a more rapid healing process and will also provide skin tightening.
How long is Erbium laser recovery? ›
The swelling and pain usually lasts for 1-4 days. The skin may ooze for approximately 2-4 days. Redness may last for a couple of weeks. As the treated area is very delicate, proper wound care is essential for the best possible result.
How do you sleep after laser resurfacing? ›
DAY OF AND DAY AFTER LASER SKIN RESURFACING PROCEDURE
Sleep on your back with your head elevated about 30-40 degrees (2-3 pillows). Do not sleep on your side. Keeping your body more upright will minimize swelling. You do not want the laser treated areas to be pressing against your pillow.
How long does YAG laser take to heal? ›
You may resume all normal activities right away after your YAG laser procedure. It is common for people who have had this procedure to see floaters in their field of vision for up to a few weeks. This normally resolves on its own, but please contact New Vision Eye Center if it does not.
Can I go back to work after YAG laser? ›
It will take a few days to see as clearly as possible. You shouldn't have pain. You should be able to return to work or your normal routine the day after surgery. It is common to see spots or floaters for a few weeks after surgery.
Can I wash my face after YAG laser treatment? ›
You can do all normal activities after the procedure such as bend over, carry shopping, wash your face and hair.
