The Skinny
Average Recovery
2 weeks
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$1000 - $3000
The Specifics
What is laser hand rejuvenation?
Laser hand rejuvenation is a cosmetic procedure that can help to reduce the telltale signs of aging, such as volume loss and age spots to create a more youthful appearance of the hands. Typically fractional lasers are used for their targeting ability. Ablative lasers are more aggressive and more effective, however, for those seeking a less invasive treatment non-ablative lasers are also effective over multiple treatments sessions.While Laser therapy and intense pulsed light (IPL) are good for sun damage like age spots and brown spots with some collagen stimulation, hand rejuvenation with fat transfer and hand rejuvenation with dermal fillers (like Radiesse® or Juvederm®) are better suited to volume correction.
What cosmetic concerns does a laser hand rejuvenation procedure treat?
1. Aging Hands: Laser therapy destroys damaged skin cells, promotes natural healing, and stimulates collagen production for fresh, rejuvenated skin.Who is the ideal candidate for a laser hand rejuvenation procedure?
The ideal candidate for a laser hand rejuvenation procedure is in generally good health and seeking to correct telltale signs of aging. Laser Hand Rejuvenation is not recommended for those who smoke, those with impaired wound healing, or those with a history of keloid scarring.What is the average recovery associated with a laser hand rejuvenation procedure?
The average recovery following a laser hand rejuvenation procedure is dependent on the laser used. An ablative laser will cause red, swollen skin that may persist for a few weeks. A non-ablative laser will have less recovery time as it is less invasive. Limiting sun exposure will prevent abnormal pigmentation, and cool compresses can help to alleviate swelling.What are the potential side effects of a laser hand rejuvenation procedure?
Possible side effects following a laser hand rejuvenation procedure include redness, swelling, pain, flare ups of herpes, changes in skin pigmentation, blistering, and scarring.What can someone expect from the results of a laser hand rejuvenation procedure?
The results of a laser hand rejuvenation cosmetic procedure are dependent on the type of laser used. An ablative treatment may be visible in as little as one session, whereas a nonablative treatment may require as many as 10 sessions. The results are long lasting, but the signs of aging will reappear with time and sun exposure. Good skin care can help maintain results.What is the average cost of a laser hand rejuvenation procedure?
Laser hand rejuvenation can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. The actual cost of laser hand rejuvenation is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- Long Lasting
- Noninvasive
Cons
- Results Take Time
- Multiple Treatments
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Laser skin resurfacing can rejuvenate the tone and texture of the hands by removing irregularly pigmented spots and reducing fine lines. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a laser hand rejuvenation treatment.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications as directed by your provider
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after treatment
- No alcohol 1 week prior
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
During Treatment
- Topical or local anesthetic
- Laser is applied to the treatment area, targeting uneven skin texture, irregular pigmentation, fine lines, and other skin imperfections
- Once treated, a serum or ointment will be applied
- Bandage may be applied to the skin
Immediately After Treatment
- Discomfort
- Skin will feel raw and swollen
- Use OTC medications and cool compresses to ease discomfort
1-3 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
Recovery time and intensity will depend on the type of laser used. Ablative laser recovery will be longer and more involved, whereas a non-ablative treatment will be shorter and easier. With either treatment, expect:
- Hands may dry and flake for 1 week
- Keep skin moisturized
- Avoid sun exposure to prevent irregular pigmentation and repeat damage
Result Notes
- Results from ablative treatments in as little as 1 session
- Results from non-ablative treatments require multiple sessions, as many as 10
- Results are long lasting but signs of aging will reappear with time
The Takeaway
Laser hand rejuvenation is a cosmetic procedure that can help to lessen the appearance of the telltale signs of aging such as age spots, sun spots, liver spots, and brown spots for a more youthful, unblemished appearance.
