Erbium laser skin resurfacing is a powerful yet gentle surgical technique for the treatment of many skin conditions at a level of precision previously unattainable. The Erbium laser is an alternative to treatments such as dermabrasion and chemical peeling and has advantages over these procedures. Erbium laser treatment can also replace surgery for some skin tumours.

Is Erbium laser suitable for you?
The Erbium laser is used to treat pre-cancerous skin lesions and some skin cancers, severe sun damage including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, birthmarks and a variety of other skin blemishes. For the first time, the delicate skin of the neck and backs of hands can also be successfully treated.

How does it work?
The Erbium laser uses very brief pulses of light to target the condition being treated. The pulses of light are so short and so specific for the skin cells being targeted that the energy delivered to the targeted tissue cannot spread to affect surrounding normal tissue. This minimises the risk of adverse side effects, such as scarring, and allows the treated skin to heal in a matter of days rather than the 2-3 weeks previously required.

How long before I see results?
Skin healing will take place over a few days. Final results may not be evident for several months. Most patients require only one treatment with this laser, but in certain cases additional treatments are helpful.

Is the process painful?
Laser treatment can be painful. A local anaesthetic injection, anaesthetic cream and sometimes an inhalational anaesthetic may be used to reduce discomfort.

What should I do before treatment?
Tobacco, alcohol, and aspirin are best avoided from 2 weeks prior to treatment. Sun exposure should be minimised.

What will be required after treatment?
Following any treatment a healing balm will be applied to the treated area. Skin care will be explained and detailed instructions provided for post treatment recovery. Good sun protection is important.

What will the procedure cost?
The cost is comparable to other laser treatments. However, the total cost depends upon the size, depth and type of skin condition as well as the number of treatments required. This can only be assessed at the time of initial consultation.

What complications can occur?
Prolonged healing or redness, increased or decreased skin pigmentation, infection, scarring (very rare).