PLASTIC SURGERY

Paul Vanek, MD, FACS

Q: Is it true that you should not get laser treatments in the summertime?

A: Many patients say they have heard this myth, and it is completely false. With one stipulation I will explain here, you CAN get laser treatments during the summer. This falsehood probably developed from the proper advice to limit your sun a few days before undergoing laser treatments. This is because lasers use precise wavelengths that can focus on the melanin pigment and target it. These wavelengths are able to focus on the pigment while avoiding damage to surrounding skin. When laser use first began, there were not the available wavelengths we now use. But with today’s Sciton technology, troublesome areas can be treated on a wider array of skin types. The newer laser wavelengths are designed to target various levels of the skin with less risk of negative consequences.

My one stipulation is, if you have been exposed to intense sunlight within 72 hours before laser treatments, I ask you to let me know. For my Cleveland weekend sun warriors, I simply have them schedule their laser treatments on a Thursday or Friday. This will significantly decrease any risk of burning, scarring, and seriously damaging your skin. Even if you don’t look tanned or burned, your skin can become much more sensitive to the laser light without you knowing it.

Before and after laser treatments, I advise people to apply sunblock (preferably UVA/UVB protection) and protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun. Patients who wish to look younger with Mentor peel or Forever Young laser treatments can be treated safely all summer and enjoy their outdoor lifestyle with physician-patient communication and a little sunblock attention.

Dr. Paul Vanek M.D., F.A.C.S. Vanek Plastic Surgery 9485 Mentor Ave #100 Mentor, OH 44060 440-205-5750 www.MentorPlasticSurgery.com Accepting new patients for non-intrusive and surgical cosmetic and reconstructive solutions