After laser resurfacing, mosquito bite-like lumps appeared on my chin! What’s happening? (photos)

Question

The lumps have been here unchanging for nearly a week. I’m pale Caucasian age 40. The procedure was done by a very experienced and well-regarded facial plastic surgeon. Lumps are painless and not acne.I followed aftercare advice perfectly and was told all was well at me last check at three weeks. I can’t find anything online about this being a side effect or a type of scarring?! I followed aftercare advice perfectly and was told all was well at me last check at three weeks.

William Groff, DO · Answer

Thank  you for your question and photos. It is not unusual to experience side effects like yours after a laser treatment. Use a gentle wash on the area, and avoid harsh products that could irritate the skin further. My guess is you will see improvement in those bumps within a couple of weeks. If not, I would schedule a follow-up with your doctor for an in-person assessment and treatment recommendations, should that become necessary.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Skin reactions such as this are relatively common post laser resurfacing. If these don't subside within 2-3 weeks, I suggest scheduling a formal follow up with the rendering physician. Best, Dr. Emer.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

With laser resurfacing, the glands are inflamed initially and may not work well.  At about 2-3 weeks the glands can then become hyper active and people will get Milia or little breakouts.  Yours may be a similar issue, but under the skin.  Doxycycline usually works well to help control these.  Try not to pick at them and don't use any strong creams or solutions as they can irritate the new skin even more.

Benjamin Gonzalez, MD · Answer

Here is the good news: These will likely go away pretty quickly if you simply use a mild wash and a light hydrating moisturizer. This reaction is a relatively common occurrence with laser treatments. Some people more that others. This is a normal inflammatory reaction of either the glands or hair follicles. If it persists or becomes more acne-like you can use a simple salicylic facial wash. If it persists longer than a few weeks seek advice from the medical provider you got the laser treatment from.

After laser resurfacing, mosquito bite-like lumps appeared on my chin! What’s happening? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lumps after laser treatment

Answer: Lumps after laser treatment

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After laser resurfacing, mosquito bite-like lumps appeared on my chin! What’s happening? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lumps after laser treatment

Answer: Lumps after laser treatment

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.