Laser surgery

Laser surgery is a procedure designed to eliminate abnormal tissue by heating the cells rapidly, turning them to vapor, and suctioning them away from the normal healthy tissue. This allows new tissue to heal in place soon afterwards and generally causes less scarring than other procedures. Laser surgery is often recommended if your pap smear indicates abnormal cervical tissue changes, abnormal growths on the vagina or cervix, or chronically inflamed cells in the cervix. The procedure usually takes anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. It's not unusual to feel mild cramps during the procedure and a lightheaded, flushed feeling afterwards. You'll probably experience a light, watery vaginal discharge or irritation for two weeks following the surgery. In addition, a temporary change in your menstrual cycle may also occur. During the two weeks after the operation, it's important not to place anything inside the vagina, including tampons or douches, and sexual intercourse should be avoided. If heavy bleeding, fever, or abdominal pain is experienced, your doctor should be contacted immediately. Follow-up visits are very important with laser surgery and shouldn't be overlooked.