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Laser Hair Removal
To get answers to the most frequent questions about laser hair
removal, please select one of the links below:
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is the non-invasive reduction of unwanted facial
and body hair with the assistance of a laser or intense pulsed
light source.
Are multiple treatments required?
The laser only treats hairs that are in their active growth phase.
The number of active follicles and their cycle time will vary
with each area of the body. Follicles that are in a dormant phase
(at least two-thirds) are not affected. Additional treatments
are performed as hairs that were dormant become active and begin
to grow. The number of sessions will vary with each patient and
body area. It's important to realize that multiple treatments
are certainly required.
How is laser hair removal performed?
Laser hair removal is performed as an in office procedure without
the need for anesthesia and with immediate return to sedentary
activities. Most people experience only a slight stinging or feel
nothing at all as the laser pulses are applied.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser targets the pigment within the hair follicle (melanin),
disabling the follicle. The laser is designed to selectively target
the follicle without damaging the surrounding skin.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Unlike traditional methods such as shaving, plucking and waxing,
laser hair removal is intended to provide long lasting or permanent
reduction in hair. The FDA has approved the Lumenis Lightsheer™
diode laser for hair removal.
What areas are commonly treated?
For women, the lip and chin are the most common areas we treat
followed by the bikini line, legs and axilla (armpits). For men
the back, shoulder and upper arms are the most popular areas.
It is possible to treat most areas of the body.
How is laser hair removal different
from electrolysis?
With electrolysis each hair must be individually treated with
an electric current with risk of electric shock, infection and
scarring. Electrolysis can take months or even years to complete.
The laser non-invasively treats an area with many hairs at one
time. For example, it typically takes about thirty seconds to
treat the upper lip.
What lasers does Plastic Surgery of
Southern Connecticut offer for hair removal?
In order to most effectively and safely treats the widest variety
of hair colors and skin types, Plastic Surgery of Southern Connecticut
offers treatment with the Lumenis Lightsheer™ diode
laser. Some lasers require cooling of the skin to facilitate their use,
and the LightSheer utilizes Lumenis' patented "chill-tip"
technology to cool and protect the skin without need for gells,
carbon or cold sprays.
Who performs laser hair removal?
Dr. O'Connell personally evaluates each patient for hair color,
texture, skin type and other medical factors prior to laser hair
removal. The actual hair removal process is usually performed
by a specially trained female Registered Nurse under Dr. O'Connell's direct on-site supervision.
Should I wax, tan or dye my hair
before coming into the office?
No. You should not wax for about six weeks prior to treating
any given area. You should not bleach or pluck your hair and it is best
to avoid sun tanning prior to laser hair removal. You may shave as needed prior to treatment.
Are there risks associated with laser
hair removal?
As with any medical or surgical procedure there are risks although
with laser hair removal they are minimal. A thorough discussion of potential risks, alternatives and potential benefits is an important part of the consultative process.
How much does laser hair removal
cost?
Costs for laser hair removal vary depending upon the area of
the body treated, and we will be happy to quote you prices by
phone. Laser hair removal is one of the least expensive procedures
in plastic surgery and is affordable for nearly everyone.
To contact Connecticut plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph B. O'Connell
about laser hair removal or any of our cosmetic surgery procedures,
please fill out our contact form or
call us at (203) 454-0044. About Us | Cosmetic
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Plastic Surgery of Southern Connecticut
208 Post Road West • Westport, CT 06680
Phone: 203-454-0044 • Email: jbomd@aol.com
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