All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. With the new CO2 laser surgery, the risk of scarring is quite low. Common side-effects may include crusting, mild swelling, redness or brown discoloration at the treatment site. Some patients may require bleaching creams to help regulate skin color following laser resurfacing. Significant pain, bleeding, swelling and infection seldom occur and can be minimized byproper surgical techniques and vigorous postoperative care.