Is Laser Skin Rejuvenation Painful?

Most patients tolerate Erbium laser treatment very well. A local anesthetic is typically applied before the procedure, and for more extensive treatments, a mild sedative may also be used to ensure your comfort. While you’ll remain awake, many patients describe the sensation as warm or prickly rather than painful. After the procedure, your skin may feel like it’s been sunburned, but this usually subsides within a few days.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The number of treatments varies based on your skin’s condition and your goals. Many patients see noticeable improvement after just one session, especially when targeting fine lines or pigmentation. However, for more significant concerns—like deeper wrinkles or acne scars—a series of treatments may be recommended. Your provider will help you build a customized plan during your consultation.

How Long Until I See Results?

You may begin to notice improvement in your skin’s texture and brightness within a week as new skin starts to emerge. However, full results often develop over several weeks to a few months as collagen continues to rebuild and the skin fully heals. Most patients experience ongoing improvement in tone, firmness, and smoothness during this time.

Can I Combine Laser Skin Rejuvenation With Other Procedures?

Absolutely. Erbium laser treatments can be combined with other non-invasive services such as Botox , dermal fillers , or microneedling to enhance your overall results. Your provider can recommend the best combination based on your skin’s needs, ensuring each treatment complements the other and contributes to your desired outcome.

What Are the Risks Associated With Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

When performed by a trained professional, Erbium laser resurfacing is considered safe and well-tolerated. That said, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, mild peeling, or scabbing during recovery. More rare risks include pigmentation changes or prolonged sensitivity. Your provider will review your medical history and skin type to minimize these risks and provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing.

Chicago, IL

Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Chicago, IL

Introduction

Introduction to Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Over time, sun damage, acne scarring, and the natural aging process can leave skin looking dull, uneven, and textured. Laser skin rejuvenation offers a powerful, non-surgical solution to restore clarity, smoothness, and radiance. At our Orland Park practice, we offer Erbium laser resurfacing, a gentle yet highly effective technology that targets fine lines, discoloration, and surface imperfections to reveal fresher, more youthful-looking skin. With minimal downtime and dramatic results, this treatment has quickly become a favorite among patients looking to refresh and renew their appearance without invasive procedures.

What is Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

The Erbium laser is effective for treating fine lines that occur with aging and exposure to the elements. We are using them to treat acne scarring, “crow’s feet” around the eyes, and vertical wrinkles on the upper lip.

This new method for skin resurfacing takes advantage of the ability of the laser to penetrate the skin to a precise depth. This consistency of penetration affords an even effect over the entire area treated. The superficial skin is shed. New skin regenerates, providing a fresher, smoother appearance. After the treatment, which is performed under local anesthesia, the skin remains red for up to 10 days. The redness fades in a few weeks, turning pink. The pink is easily camouflaged with makeup and disappears within 1 to 3 months.*

A close-up of Dr. Samir Shah, MD, a man with a beard, wearing protective glasses and a black scrub top embroidered with "Samir R Shah M.D. Plastic Surgery." He is holding a laser device and treating a patient who is lying down. - Laser Skin Resurfacing in Orlando Park, IL

A close-up of artwork featuring a woven rattan or wooden leaf shape with parallel lines, laid over a textured deep blue background.

How Does It Work?

The Erbium laser directs short, concentrated beams of light that precisely remove skin layer by layer. This reveals the underlying skin that is smoother and younger-looking. This stimulates collagen production, which helps tighten the skin. The procedure is performed by Dr. Rajendra Shah and Dr. Samir Shah using local anesthesia. You will be awake during your laser treatment. The treatment time depends on whether Dr. Shah is spot-treating the face or is treating the entire area.

Am I A Candidate For Erbium Laser Treatment?

An erbium laser can be used on a variety of skin types. Those seeking to improve their fine lines and wrinkles will reveal younger, smoother-looking skin. Fine lines around the mouth, crow’s feet, and forehead are greatly diminished. Although these results are great, patients must have realistic expectations, which will be discussed during their consultation with Dr. Rajendra Shah and Dr. Samir Shah.

Acne scarring can also be reduced. The Erbium laser improves collagen production and, therefore, helps fill in those pitted marks left behind from acne breakouts. Patients can expect their skin tone to even out and smooth.

Because the Erbium laser can remove layers of skin, hyperpigmentation can also be addressed. Age spots, sun spots, and discoloration can all be treated and removed.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

Laser skin rejuvenation offers a variety of aesthetic benefits with a lasting impact. Patients often see:

Smoother texture and a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
Brighter, more even skin tone with less hyperpigmentation
Improved appearance of acne scars and sun damage
Firmer skin due to collagen stimulation during the healing process
Minimized pore size and overall healthier-looking skin

Because the treatment is highly customizable, your provider can adjust the intensity based on your skin type and desired outcome, making it ideal for both targeted corrections and full-face rejuvenation.

What’s the First Step?

More radiant skin begins with a one-on-one consultation with a qualified aesthetic provider in Chicago, where they will examine your skin, discuss your concerns and goals, and determine whether Erbium laser resurfacing is the right option for you. You’ll also review how the treatment works, what to expect afterward, and how to prepare for your session. If you’re interested in spot treatment for fine lines or full-face resurfacing, this is the perfect time to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your needs and lifestyle.

Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment

Available at our Orland Park office, the Erbium laser is one of our patients’ favorite skin resurfacing treatments. It is the treatment of choice for those seeking dramatic improvement in their skin appearance with minimal downtime.* The procedure removes surface pigmentation and mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles on the face, hands, neck, and chest. Dr. Rajendra Shah and Dr. Samir Shah will first meet with you and assess your skin and concerns during your consultation.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation Recovery

It is normal to have redness or swelling directly after the treatment. Some patients report that they feel as though they have a mild sunburn. An antibiotic ointment is applied after the treatment and can be applied for the days to follow. This will speed up the recovery process. You can expect mild redness for the first couple of days, depending on the patient and the aggressiveness of the treatment.*

A monochromatic, close-up image of a broken white male torso statue against a dark background, with white wire-like branches winding around it.

How Much Does Laser Skin Rejuvenation Cost?

The cost of Laser Skin Rejuvenation in Orland Park and the greater Chicago area depends on the size of the treatment area, the depth of resurfacing, and the number of sessions needed to achieve your goals. On average, treatments range from $500 to $1,500 per session, with full-face procedures typically on the higher end of the scale. Some patients may benefit from a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart, which can be discussed during your consultation. We’ll provide you with an individualized treatment plan and transparent pricing, along with any available package or financing options.

Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Shah?

Dr. Samir Shah and Dr. Rajendra Shah:

They are both board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience and skill in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Share a commitment to provide quality and compassionate care to their patients.
Have thousands of satisfied patients, including those who have undergone facelifts, breast procedures, and liposuction (View gallery and reviews).
Provide an in-office surgical suite that is fully accredited by AAASF.

Dr. Samir Shah:

Earned his medical degree at the Chicago Medical School.
Trained in general surgery and completed a plastic surgery fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center.
Completed a one-year fellowship in hand surgery/microsurgery under the direction of world-renowned hand surgeon, Larry Hurst, M.D., at Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY.
Clinical Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University of Illinois- Chicago Department of Plastic Surgery
Has published numerous scholarly articles in medical journals and lectured at local organizations.
Is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Illinois Society of Plastic Surgery, and the American Society of Hand Surgery.

Dr. Rajendra Shah:

Completed his surgery residency at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago, IL.
Completed his plastic surgery residency program at Ohio State University in Columbus, OH.
Is a long-standing member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, Illinois Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Midwestern Association of Plastic Surgeons.
Has made numerous professional presentations and authored several articles on plastic surgery.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation FAQ’S

Most patients tolerate Erbium laser treatment very well. A local anesthetic is typically applied before the procedure, and for more extensive treatments, a mild sedative may also be used to ensure your comfort. While you’ll remain awake, many patients describe the sensation as warm or prickly rather than painful. After the procedure, your skin may feel like it’s been sunburned, but this usually subsides within a few days.
The number of treatments varies based on your skin’s condition and your goals. Many patients see noticeable improvement after just one session, especially when targeting fine lines or pigmentation. However, for more significant concerns—like deeper wrinkles or acne scars—a series of treatments may be recommended. Your provider will help you build a customized plan during your consultation.
When performed by a trained professional, Erbium laser resurfacing is considered safe and well-tolerated. That said, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, mild peeling, or scabbing during recovery. More rare risks include pigmentation changes or prolonged sensitivity. Your provider will review your medical history and skin type to minimize these risks and provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing.

Patient Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I always feel like family there

The whole entire team is fantastic. From the front desk to outpatient surgery.

I always feel like family there. They listen to you, they address your concerns, and give you the best advise/treatment that suits your needs.

– Donna B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Dr. Shah has the talent to make the fountain of youth a reality

Dr. Rajendra Shah is an exceptionally skillful surgeon who has an artist’s eye for determining what it takes to enhance natural beauty, coupled with the ability to make it happen with natural results. It has been a pleasure dealing with Dr. Shah who takes the time to answer all of my questions, and address my concerns while providing the best options for me. He also has a wonderful staff who are all friendly and knowledgeable. My experience with Dr. Shah has been completely positive, and I highly recommend him. Dr. Shah has the talent to make the fountain of youth a reality.

– Erin
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Dr.Shah and his staff are amazing

Dr.Shah and his staff are amazing. Everyone is so friendly and inviting. I had a breast augmentation done 2 months ago and I feel great. Dr.Shah gave me the perfect size for my body type and was very honest and knowledgeable about how the procedure and recovery would go. Overall it was a very comfortable and great experience!

– Kelly M
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
They are very professional and yet have a personal touch!

Dr. Shah and his team are the best! They are very professional and yet have a personal touch! I highly recommend this practice !!

– Kimberly D.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are interested in a consultation with one of our providers or in discussing your facial renewal goals further with our licensed aestheticians/ medical assistants, please contact us to determine whether a professionally administered chemical peel is right for you.

Call 708-424-3999 or contact us online.

*Results may vary and are not guaranteed. Consult with Dr. Shah to see if you are a good candidate.

We invite you to request a consultation where we can discuss your cosmetic enhancement goals. At that time, you will have the opportunity to review pictures of many satisfied patients. We look forward to hearing from you.