When it comes to facial laser treatments, the eyes have it — and not in a good way if proper precautions aren't taken. At the Masters of Aesthetics Symposium in San Diego, dermatologist Catherine M. DiGiorgio, MD, laid out a clear set of safety guidelines to protect both patients and staff from serious ocular injuries during laser procedures.

For patients, DiGiorgio emphasized that metal corneal shields are a must whenever lasers are used near the periocular area — plastic shields can heat up and cause thermal burns. She also flagged a key risk for contact lens wearers: topical anesthetics used during shield placement can blunt corneal sensation, making it dangerous to reinsert lenses right after, potentially leading to abrasions, keratitis, or even blindness.

Key Takeaways:

• Always use metal (not plastic) corneal shields when treating near the eyes
• Topical facial anesthetics are toxic to the eye — flush immediately with saline if exposure occurs and refer to ophthalmology
• Contact lens wearers should avoid reinserting lenses immediately after procedures involving ocular anesthetics
• Staff goggles must match the laser's wavelength — check optical density and replace if unreadable
• Use smoke evacuators within 5 cm of the handpiece; N95 masks (not surgical masks) are required for plume protection

Why it matters: Laser-related eye injuries are largely preventable, but the consequences — retinopathy, corneal burns, ulceration, blindness — are severe and often occur during elective procedures. These practical reminders are critical for any practice using aesthetic lasers.