Long Island Rise in Laser Hair Removal Burn Injuries Lawyer
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there were over 1.3 million laser hair removal procedures performed in the United States in 2005, as compared to only 110,000 laser hair removal procedures done in 1998. While the number of laser hair removal procedures continue to increase, so to the risks, and unfortunately the number and severity of injuries.
There were over 1.3 million laser hair removal procedures performed in the United States in 2005, as compared to only 110,000 laser hair removal procedures done in 1998. While the number of laser hair removal procedures continue to increase, so to the risks, and unfortunately the number and severity of injuries.
Laser hair removal is actually a risky procedure. Unsightly burns and scars often occur due to unlicensed or unqualified personnel performing the procedure using dangerous medical equipment. Many times laser hair removal is done by using an IPL (intense pulsed light) machine. This laser machine heats the hair follicles underneath the surface of the skin and temporarily prevents re-growth of the hair. Laser and IPL machines can easily cause second-degree and third-degree burns, as well as other types of injury to the skin, if used negligently. The Long Island injury attorneys at The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP can help you pursue compensation following such negligent treatment.
The risks and dangers of laser hair removal are made worse by the incompetence of unqualified and untrained personnel who perform the procedure. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, a licensed physician should directly supervise any procedure involving laser hair removal or IPL treatment. Nonetheless, your laser hair removal procedure is much more likely being performed by an esthetician or other non-licensed “technician.”
The operator of the laser hair removal equipment must be able to properly assess the skin type of the patient, as well as the patient’s skin sensitivity. There is greater risk of scarring and burn for patients with darker skin. Patients with tattoos are even more susceptible to laser burns, since the tattoo ink attracts the laser light, causing it to heat up and burn the tattoo. Moreover, non-medical professionals are more likely to mistake skin cancer spots for a sunspot. The lack of oversight and training in the laser hair removal industry is putting patients at risk.
Contact an Experienced Laser Skin Burn and Hair Removal Injury Lawyer
If you have been injured as a result of a laser hair removal procedure or IPL procedure, it is extremely important to investigate and document your situation immediately. Do not accept more treatments or burn therapy from the people who burned you in the first place. Take photographs, and keep all the records related to your procedure. Visit a plastic surgeon or dermatologist as soon as possible. The key to holding medi-spas and laser hair removal companies accountable for their negligence is documentation.
Second-degree and third-degree burns are NOT normal! Do not let the technician, or any other person working at the laser facility that harmed you, tell you otherwise. They will tell you to “put some aloe vera on it and we will see you for your next treatment” while being fully aware that your burns will be permanent.
The laser hair removal burn injury lawyers at our law office have years of experience successfully resolving cases for clients who have suffered second-degree and third-degree burns at the hands of medi-spas and laser centers. Fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
Laser Hair Removal Q&A
What are the common risks associated with laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal can cause several risks, including burns, scarring, and skin discoloration. These risks are heightened when performed by unlicensed or unqualified laser hair removal technicians using IPL or laser machines. In severe cases, patients may suffer second- or third-degree burns during laser hair removal treatments, especially if their skin type or sensitivity is not properly assessed.
Why is it important for a licensed physician to supervise laser hair removal procedures?
A licensed physician ensures that the procedure is performed safely, assessing skin type, sensitivity, and other factors that untrained technicians might overlook. Without supervision during laser treatments, there is a higher risk of burns, scars, and other complications, especially for patients with darker skin or tattoos.
What should I do if I suffer burns from a laser hair removal treatment?
If you are injured, stop receiving treatments from the facility that caused the injury. Immediately document your injuries by taking photographs, saving medical records, and seeking advice from a qualified plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Contact an experienced attorney specializing in laser hair removal injuries to help you pursue a personal injury claim for compensation.
Are second-degree and third-degree burns normal after a procedure?
No, second- and third-degree burns are not normal and indicate negligence. If a technician tells you these burns are common, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and legal advice, as this can lead to permanent scarring or long-term damage if not addressed properly.
How can I hold a medi-spa or laser center accountable for my injury?
To hold a facility accountable, it’s important to gather evidence, including photos of your injury, treatment records, and expert opinions from medical professionals. Consulting with an experienced laser burn injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for the harm caused by improper treatment of unwanted hair.
