Should I avoid laser hair removal before surgery?

Question

Getting a breast reduction in two months, and I have an underarm laser hair removal appointment coming up. I was wondering since the two areas are very close to each other, will laser put me at risk or cause any complications or should I go ahead and get it done?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to laser hair removal. Laser hair removal prior to surgery is completely fine. There are no additional risks that it will put you at. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Robert W. Sheffield, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. A Laser hair removal treatment will have no adverse effects on your breast reduction procedure. The mechanism of action of Laser hair removal includes concentrating the hair with an intense beam of light. The beam of light is absorbed by the melanin hair pigment, damaging the hair follicle to the extent that it stops further development. There is no added health risk in undergoing laser hair removal treatment followed by a surgical procedure. It’s always better to inform your surgeon about your treatment history and have a personalized evaluation for prevention of post op complication and better prognosis.I hope this helps.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. No, laser hair removal treatment will not affect your breast reduction surgery. Laser hair removal treatment works by aiming a concentrated beam of light at the hair. The light is then absorbed by the pigment, which damages the hair follicle enough to stop future growth. Lasers can remove hair for anywhere from several months to years. The results differ widely from person to person. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to discuss your concerns. Best of Luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. No, laser hair removal treatment will not affect your breast reduction surgery. Laser hair removal treatment works by aiming a concentrated beam of light at the hair. The light is then absorbed by the pigment, which damages the hair follicle enough to stop future growth. Lasers can remove hair for anywhere from several months to years. The results differ widely from person to person. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to discuss your concerns. Best of Luck!

Laurene DiPasquale, MD · Answer

Having laser hair removal on your underarms should not put you at any risk of complications after your breast surgery.  They are two separate areas.  If fact, you may be more comfortable after the surgery because is there is less hair to worry about shaving.  Regards, Dr. D

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I would have no problem doing this. There is no additional risks associated with this procedure except for the remote chance of having a burn to the area.

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

Having laser hair removal done around the time of your breast reduction will not cause any problems as the two procedures will not have any effect on one another. Laser hair removal targets the roots of the hairs in the targeted areas only and nothing else. You do not need to worry about any potential interference with your breast augmentation.

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

I think you have nothing to worry about with this. Under arm hair removal does not cause any down time. It does take more than one treatment so you may want to get started in the winter so you will be ready for the summer!!

Should I avoid laser hair removal before surgery?

Answers (8)

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