Laser treatments for lines and wrinkles

A hand-held laser is used to remove the top layer of skin in a process called laser resurfacing, which stimulates new growth. When the treated area heals, the new skin is smoother, looks younger and has an improved complexion.

Some types of laser treatment target the lower levels of skin without affecting the top layer (the epidermis). For the best results, a course of treatments will likely be recommended by your cosmetic consultant.

Laser wrinkle removal cannot produce the results of a surgical facelift, but it is a much less invasive procedure requiring less recovery time and which can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. The effect does wear off gradually, so repeat treatments are needed to maintain results.

We pride ourselves on our clinical excellence, you'll be looked after by an experienced multi-disciplinary care team.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see and when you want. They’ll be with you every step of the way: from giving advice at your first consultation, through to offering on-going support after your surgery.

All of our cosmetic surgeons are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well equipped hospitals.  A cosmetic surgeon’s reputation, qualifications and experience are vitally important, so we only work with consultant grade specialists. These are highly experienced consultants who have completed years of medical training. All our consultants are on the specialist register of the General Medical Council (GMC), and many are also members of the UK’s leading cosmetic and plastic surgery associations.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

We understand that treatment can be a cause of anxiety – even if it’s a relatively straightforward procedure like this one. That’s why our experienced and caring medical staff will be there for you every step of the way.

Laser treatment is usually done as an outpatient procedure under a local anaesthetic, so you won’t need to spend the night in hospital.

Depending on the size and location of the area to be treated, you may be given anaesthetic injections or a special face cream that numbs your skin. The treatment will take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the area you’re having treated and the type of laser your surgeon uses.

An intense beam of light will be passed over the treatment area using a hand-held device, which forces the skin to renew itself by stimulating collagen and elastin production.

There are a number of different types of lasers that can be used and your cosmetic surgeon will make a recommendation based on your skin type and what is best for you.

After treatment, your face will probably be covered with a temporary dressing.

Pain relief

You may experience some pain, swelling and inflammation immediately after treatment. This is normal and your symptoms will start to improve over the next few weeks. We will give you medication while you’re with us and to take home to help ease any pain.

We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you have left hospital. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.

Recovery time

You will probably want to take about a week off work to allow any inflammation to die down. Some people find that their skin crusts over and weeps, but this is part of the healing process and should only be temporary. Some people heal in about a week, others can take longer - everyone is different. Once your skin heals, it should reveal a younger and fresher complexion.

Wash your face carefully and moisturise every day but avoid heavily perfumed or coloured products for the first few weeks.

You should avoid the sun until any redness has faded and wear a high factor sunscreen on the affected area for a year after your treatment has finished.

End results

As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important that you review your expectations thoroughly before you decide to proceed. Your specialist will explain the results you can expect and the results and the time frame you can expect.

How your loved ones can help

Even after you’ve left hospital, we’re still looking after you every step of the way.

On rare occasions, complications can occur following treatment. The chance of complications depends on the exact type of treatment that you are having and other factors such as your general health. We will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.

If you have any questions or concerns we’re ready to help.

We have a leading reputation for high quality clinical care, a network of 38 modern, well-equipped hospitals and some world-class specialist cosmetic consultants who are all dedicated to the same thing – your well being.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.