Is it safe to get fractional laser while on Plavix?

In most cases is safe to have a fractional CO2 laser treatment while still on Plavix, but ultimately your surgeon will have to make the final determination.I hope this helps.

In general, it is safe to perform CO2 laser treatments on an individual on Plavix or other blood thinners.  Most patients get some pinpoint bleeding but this is easily treated with cool compresses.  Though bruising is possible, it is extremely rare with laser treatments and is a great option for individuals who cannot have surgery as a result of bleeding issues. 

Staying on plavix (or aspirin) is generally safe when having a fractionated CO2 treatment. Theoretically one may have slightly more pinpoint bleeding (and may look a little more red for a day or so after treatment), so perhaps downtime may be extended by a day or two (at most). If this laser treatment is combined with other facial procedures, please check with your surgeon since stopping blood thinners for these other procedures typically is more important.

There is no contraindication for lasers and blood thinners.  There are officially no guidlines, but I have performed 1000s without problem.  I suggest you see a laser expert for an evaluation to see if you are a candidate.  Best, Dr. Emer.

I have a different opinion than Dr Scott. I have done Fractional lasers in several patients who are on plavix/coumadin/aspirin/heparin etc. I would get the INR first. if it is in therapeutic range and the clotting profile is not too off then I see no problem in doing lasers. having said that make sure you get the procedure done by a doctor and not an assistant and not in a spa setting. 

It is best to do test spot and use conservative pattern. Fractionated lasers offer various laser densities or percentage of skin lasered .I would use a conservative density initially which can be no creased on a subsequent session. For plants a fractionated carbon dioxide is preferable to fractionated erbium .

Thank you for your Q.Blood thinners are the anticoagulants.Antiplatelets include aspirin and Plavix (Clopidogrel), among others.Fractional lasers can be performed while on Plavix and I recommend a test spot to see the extent of antiplatelet therapy in your system.Dr Karamanoukian

It would not be advisable to undergo a fractionally ablative CO2 or Erbium laser while on Plavix. I suggest you discuss whether or not you could transiently come off Plavix for several days with your cardiologist. He or she may allow you to be off the Plavix for the short time needed. This would certainly depend on your individual risk factors. 

I do not think there is a Universal opinion, nor are there guideline. I agree with Dr Khan, and have no problems perfuming the procedure, as we have done literally hundreds of patients on Plavix with no adverse effects. I may stand corrected if something comes out in scientific papers in the future. I think this is a conversation that you may need to have with your cardiologist, and laser specialist to make you feel 100% comfortable. All the bestDr Davin S. LimLaser DermatologistBrisbane, Australia.