Will there be permanent scarring after laser hair removal and cellulitis? (Photos)

Question

Hi there, I recently had laser hair removal on my lower legs. It left me burnt and blistered, I've also had to go on antibiotics via iv for, 5 days to kill an infection that it developed (cellulitis). It was the second treatment, the first one hurt but left no marks. This time round it was really painful. Will I be permanently scared? It was almost 3 weeks ago.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

It is way to early to talk about scarring. This needs a burn specialist to make sure healing is optimized. I would see a derm or Plastic Surgeon for this. Scarring is likely but to what extent is unknown. I'm sorry this has happened to you. Obviously the wrong laser or wrong settings were used.

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

First, we are so sorry that you had this experience.  With the proper laser and settings, burning, scarring and cellulitis should never happen.  It is too early to really know if you will have any permanent scarring from this event.  We would advise you to seek a plastic surgeon or burn specialist to develop a strategy to prevent this.

Will there be permanent scarring after laser hair removal and cellulitis? (Photos)

Answers (2)