YAG Post-Op

YAG Patient INSTRUCTIONS

Pre-OP

1. No sun exposure 1 week prior
2. Patients must not be tan
3. Book in advance up to 3 days before any major event
4. An antiviral may be given if there is a history of cold sores ( i.e Acyclovir, Valtrex)

POST-OP

Initially after treatment, you will feel a mild burning sensation that resolves in about thirty minutes. After treatment, it is normal for the area to scab and darken.

Clean the site that evening with mild soap and water. Pat the area dry. Apply a thin film of ointment (bacitracin, bactroban or even Aquaphor) to the area. Cover with a bandage if desired. Cleanse and change daily. The areas will continue to darken and then fall off. The area may be pink and will fade to your normal skin color. Treatment sites from the face normally take 5-7 days to heal, other body areas — arms, legs, back, hands, feet, trunk may take 10-14 days. Once healed, please resume your retinoid and normal skin regimen. Strict sun avoidance to the treated areas is necessary for two weeks after the area is healed.

Sunscreen. It is very important that you use sunscreen to prevent sun damage to the skin. Sunscreen should offer UVA and UVB protection and be SPF 30 or more. Once sloughing is complete, use sunscreen daily for at least 3 months after your last treatment. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside, and again, immediately before. Reapply every 2 hours. If direct sun exposure is necessary, wear a hat and clothing that will cover the treated area. Your practice of diligent sunscreen use may lower the risk of hyper pigmentation (darker color).

If the treatment area becomes increasingly tender, please call the office (212) 249-8118.