What can I expect after the laser treatment procedure?
Laser‐treated areas will turn a blue‐grey color while healing. There may also be swelling, blisters, or breaks in the skin. Healing takes at least 1 to 2 weeks.
How should I care for my child?
Your child may bathe or shower. Wash and dry the area gently. Do not rub the area with a washcloth or towel.
If there are blisters or breaks in the skin:
- Wash gently with soap and water
- Pat dry with a clean, soft towel
- Apply an antibiotic ointment, such as Bacitracin
- If your child is allergic to antibiotic ointment, you can use petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline
- Do this until there are no blisters or breaks in the skin
If laser procedure was done on the face, swelling may occur, and lasts 2 to 4 days.
To reduce swelling, your child should sleep with their head raised above the heart level for 2 or 3 days after the procedure. Cool compress may also be used.
Do not allow your child to pick at crusted areas. For infants and young children, protect laser‐ treated areas with bandages or gauze until the blue‐grey color goes away.
Follow your Discharge Instruction and Medicine sheets for instructions about diet, activity, pain control, and when to see the surgeon again.
Sun protection
Protect the area with sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) for 6 months after laser treatment. This will prevent sun damage to the treated areas. Also use sunscreen on areas scheduled for future treatment. Laser treatments do not work as well on suntanned skin.
When should I call the surgeon/clinic?
Call if your child has:
- Temperature higher than 101 degrees F (38.4 degrees C)
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or drainage at the site
