LASER TREATMENT INFORMED CONSENT

INTRODUCTION

• This document provides information regarding your laser treatment. You have the right to be informed about your skin condition and the proposed treatment so that you may make an educated decision whether or not to proceed.

POTENTIAL RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

• Burns and Blistering: Laser energy can produce burns or blisters. While rare, these represent heat effects in the skin.
• Skin Color Changes: The treated area may become lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation). These changes are usually temporary but can be permanent.
• Scarring: Rare but possible whenever the skin surface is disrupted.
• Infection: Possible whenever the skin barrier is disrupted. Contact the office for increasing pain, heat, or redness.
• Herpes Simplex Reactivation: Cold sore flare-ups can occur even without prior history.
• Eye Injury: Laser energy can cause permanent eye damage. Protective eyewear must be worn at all times.
• Paradoxical Hair Growth: Rare stimulation of hair growth may occur.
• Textural Changes: Skin texture changes or indentations may occur.
• Delayed Healing: Previously treated or damaged skin may heal more slowly.

PATIENT EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Multiple Treatments: A series of treatments is typically required; exact number varies.
• No Guarantees: No guarantee of permanent results or prevention of future conditions.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid sun and tanning beds 4-6 weeks before, during, and after treatment.
• Possible Dissatisfaction: Results may not meet expectations and additional treatments may be needed.
• Unknown Risks: Additional risks may be discovered in the future.