General or Local Anesthesia for Erbium Laser Resurfacing?

Here is a brief outline of what anesthesia is needed for the different uses of the Erbium:YAG laser


Microlaser peel- topical numbing cream, must be on for at least 30 minutes before starting

Fractionated laser- topical for most, some people will need more sedation.

Deep full-face laser peel- heavy IV sedation or general anesthesia with injected regional blocks


I have done a deep laser peel on small segments (i.e. lips or around the eyes) with just injected medication.  You would either be really tough or just a glutton for pain if you did the deep laser on the entire face without sedation.  Although this is a general outline, there are some people who are particularly anxious and need oral Valium, injected regional blocks or even general anesthesia for even a microlaser peel.  Remember that if this is a nightmare experience for all involved, it's unlikely you'll be happy no matter how good the results. 

We never use general anesthesia for resurfacing.  We use a combination of topical and local blocks.  If you can tolerate the locals given at the dentist, then you will do just fine without a general anesthetic.

The choice of anesthesia for laser resurfacing of the face is very much dependent on your own pain tolerance. There are parts of the face which are easily numbed with local anesthesia like around the mouth and the forehead. The cheeks are harder to make numb and need more injections.  Taking an oral pain pill before the procedure can help some also.  General anesthesia is probably the most comfortable way to do it, but you can do it with local anesthesia or sedation.

Hope that helps!

Josh Korman MD