Facial Laser Resurfacing Instructions for Surgery

Hygiene and Wound Care

• You must shower or wash your face with tap water four to five times daily and apply a thick coat of Vaseline on all treated surfaces starting the day of the procedure.
• Be careful not to put too much Vaseline above the eyes or on the upper eyelid as it may burn if it drains into the eyes.
• Do not pull the skin that is peeling, simply let it fall off by itself.

Activity Restrictions

• No lifting greater than 25 pounds for the first week. Light exercise can begin one week after surgery, heavier exercise two weeks after.
• No golf for three weeks.
• Driving may resume in one week.
• Sleep with your head of bed elevated 15 to 30 degrees for two weeks.

Lifestyle Restrictions

• No smoking for two weeks before or after surgery.
• No hair appointments for 2 weeks, no perms for 4 week.
• No facials for 6 weeks.
• Do not go into direct sunlight without sunblock SPF 30 or higher for 8 weeks. You cannot start applying this for one week after the procedure.
• Always wear a hat and glasses when going out into the sun for 8 weeks after the procedure.
• Do not attempt to tan at all for 8 weeks after the procedure.

Medication Restrictions

• No motrin, aspirin or anti-inflammatory remedies for two weeks before and two days after surgery.
• No herbal supplements such as ginko, ginseng, garlic or high doses of Vitamin E for two weeks before or two days after surgery.

It is very important to take antibiotics and pain medicine as recommended.