The Flash Lamp Pulse Dye Laser
This laser emits the appropriate type of wavelength of light for the absorption by hemoglobin, the red-colored substance present in blood. Heat is absorbed by blood causing instantaneous boiling. This, in turn, injures the lining of blood vessels and results in the formation of scar tissue that, if effective, closes off the vessels.
Application
Because of its absorption profile, it is used to treat fine facial blood vessels, rosacea, angiomas, surface spider veins of the legs, selected scars, and red-colored birthmarks. It is used to treat patients of all ages, including young children.
Pain
Most patients do not require anesthesia. Although mild stinging or burning is experienced during the procedure, it is usually well tolerated. Application of a topical anesthetic, (EMLA cream or others), prior to treatment may be recommended, especially for children, or when larger areas are treated. Post treatment pain is relatively mild and usually not a significant problem.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Aspirin and products containing aspirin should be avoided for one week prior to this type of laser treatment. If you are taking anticoagulants or have blood clotting problems, please let your doctor know. Avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning and hair removal procedures for several weeks prior to, and following treatment. Do not apply makeup or astringent preparations, and do not shave on the day of the procedure. If extensive areas or multiple facial sites are being treated, we suggest that you arrive with a companion who can drive you home.
Post-Treatment Appearance
Bruising is expected. This lasts 5-14 days, after which there is often some degree of redness for up to several additional weeks. Crusting and/or scaling occasionally accompany the bruising, but usually resolve within several days. Short lived swelling may occur. It is generally to the size of the area that has been treated.
Post-Operative Wound Care
Although cosmetics can be helpful to cover the bruising, complete camouflage may be difficult to obtain for the first 5-7 days. If crusting develops, cleanse the site twice daily with a mild soap and tepid water, apply an antibiotic ointment and do not wear makeup until it resolves. Specific post operative wound care instructions will be provided.
Risks
All laser surgery procedures carry some degree of risk. The most frequent side effect with the pulse dye laser is a temporary increase in pigmentation which usually resolves within several months. This is more common on the legs. Bleaching agents may be used to hasten resolution of such hyperpigmentation. Broad spectrum UVA blocking sunscreens and sun avoidance are likewise recommended. Prolonged pigmentary changes (skin lightening or darkening) are uncommon. The risk of wound infection or permanent scarring is minimal.
Results
The maximum benefit of each treatment may not be evident for up to 6 weeks. Certain lesions will disappear after a single treatment. Most patients, however, require more than one treatment to get the degree of success that they desire. Lesions can be treated and re-treated until the maximum achievable degree of lightening has been obtained. Unfortunately some may never fully disappear. A six to eight week period is usually required before re-treating the same area, however, untreated areas can be treated at shorter intervals. Some patients will require a test treatment of a limited area to determine their response and appropriate dosage before larger areas are treated. Lesions that have improved or disappeared occasionally recur.
Expectations
Laser surgery is a spectacular and exciting field, but has its limitations. Unknown variables inherent in each lesion and each patient make it impossible to predict the result with absolute accuracy. Every attempt will be made to achieve an optimum result, however physicians cannot guarantee complete eradication of each specific lesion. Significant improvement is a very realistic goal for which to strive. In reality, most patients are extremely pleased with the final results of their procedures.
Cost
Laser surgery involves the use of expensive, highly sophisticated, state-of-the-art medical lasers. The cost of each individual treatment session is specifically dependent upon the size or number of lesions that are being treated.
As a rule, insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures. This includes the treatment of benign lesions by laser. Patients are therefore responsible for full payment of all fees. Costs will be quoted prior to treatment. A deposit, that will be applied to the total fee, is required in order to reserve the laser equipment, technician and physician time. If it is not received 2 weeks prior to your scheduled procedure date, the procedure will be cancelled. The deposit is refundable up to 48 hours prior to the procedure. The balance of the fee must be paid in full at the time of the procedure.