I am day 3 of Erbium YAG laser resurfacing. When i arrived at the clinic they asked me if I had taken any anti viral medication (i have a history of cold sores after needles around my mouth) and I was not aware i had to take it for laser. only for needles. I am now concerned that I may break out in cold sores and want to know if i should go to my doctor and get a prescription?
May 24, 2018
Answer: Cold Sore Prevention Following Laser Resurfacing, Valtrex, Acyclovir Hello,It is standard for all patients to take Valtrex or a similar anti herpes medication as part of laser resurfacing. It is best to start the medication before the resurfacing. How far before is a debatable issue. I have my patients start the morning of the procedure if they are not known to get cold sores or a few days before if they have regular outbreaks. The duration of the treatment will depend on the intensity of the laser treatment. Simply knowing that it is an Er:Yag treatment isn't enough info as the power levels could range from only a couple days recovery to several months. If you had a very light treatment and are nearly healed, it may not serve much benefit to start now. But if you are still in the midst of healing, I would definitely recommend starting immediately.Best Regards,Dr. A
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
May 24, 2018
Answer: Cold Sore Prevention Following Laser Resurfacing, Valtrex, Acyclovir Hello,It is standard for all patients to take Valtrex or a similar anti herpes medication as part of laser resurfacing. It is best to start the medication before the resurfacing. How far before is a debatable issue. I have my patients start the morning of the procedure if they are not known to get cold sores or a few days before if they have regular outbreaks. The duration of the treatment will depend on the intensity of the laser treatment. Simply knowing that it is an Er:Yag treatment isn't enough info as the power levels could range from only a couple days recovery to several months. If you had a very light treatment and are nearly healed, it may not serve much benefit to start now. But if you are still in the midst of healing, I would definitely recommend starting immediately.Best Regards,Dr. A
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
Answer: Lasers, cold sores and management Follow up from the Specialist is mandatory. If you have any concerns, speak to your Specialist. We all have our own protocols regarding HSV and prophylaxis. Dr Davin S. Lim. Brisbane. Australia.
Helpful
Answer: Lasers, cold sores and management Follow up from the Specialist is mandatory. If you have any concerns, speak to your Specialist. We all have our own protocols regarding HSV and prophylaxis. Dr Davin S. Lim. Brisbane. Australia.
Helpful
