Abstract <p>Laser shock processing is an advanced modern technology for hardening the surfaces of metallic materials, using laser shock waves to produce strong plastic deformation, significant compressive residual stresses, and refinement of grains. These factors together increase the fatigue and strength characteristics of materials. In this paper, I derive an equation for the residual strain induced by laser shock processing technology in viscoelastoplastic materials. Particular attention is paid to the formation of microdimples on the surface caused by laser shock waves, and an approximate equation is derived to determine their maximum depth. Тhe depth of microdimples is likely noted to serve as an indirect indicator of the effectiveness of laser shock processing and of the degree of improvement in fatigue properties of the material. The obtained results increase the number of potential areas of application of laser shock processing in various industries.</p>