it'll depend on the surgeon doing the operation. Some are fine with laser, others are sticklers for electrolysis. Some will do follicle scraping, which is a plus, if you're worried about any regrowth. Laser is often described at permanent hair reduction, some saying 70 to 80%. I would do laser then electorlysis if it were me. It'd be a bit cheaper than doing straight electrolysis. However, my surgeon wanted electrolysis... Which totally sucks. It's so slow... and gets expensive. But, I've heard a couple of horror stories about ladies not following directions and the hair coming back post op. From what I hear, it's quite unpleasant. A friend of mine underwent GRS and was not required to do "Any" hair removal for surgery. She's had zero issues... so I'd concentrate on finding the surgeon and get their assessment, it may save you a lot of time, money, and headaches.