Laser Treatment of Pigmented Lesions and Tattoos
The following is information concerning the treatment of your pigmented lesions with a laser.
What is a laser?
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Photos Courtesy of Laser Cosmetic Centers of New England and the Northeast |
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The term LASER is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.Lasers work by producing an intense beam of bright light which generates heat when it is absorbed. The laser beam can cut, seal or vaporize skin tissue and blood vessels. The specific color (wavelength) of the light and power output of the laser determine its medical application. Lasers have been used by dermatologists since the 1960's. Recently, technological advances have made laser surgery the preferred method of treatment for a variety of conditions.
What does the laser do?
This laser was specifically designed to treat pigmented lesions such as solar lentigos (“liver or age spots”) and café au lait macules, as well as tattoos. It targets melanin and destroys skin pigment while in most cases, leaving the top layer of skin intact. All areas of the body can be treated. Although most common pigmented lesions can be removed with one treatment, tattoos require multiple treatments.
How does the skin look following the treatment?
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Photos Courtesy of Laser Cosmetic Centers of New England and the Northeast |
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The skin immediately turns white and may then change to a reddish-purple color 5 to 10 minutes after treatment. This color will gradually resolve over a 1 to 2 week period at which time normal skin color and texture will return.
What should I do if wound care is necessary?
If you develop a blister or crust following the treatment, avoid wearing make-up and cleanse the wound twice daily with soap and water. You should also apply an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin or Bacitracin 1 to 2 times daily.
Where is the procedure performed?
The laser surgery is performed in the Danbury office.
What are the risks of this procedure?
The most common side effect is a temporary loss of pigment (hypopigmentation) of the skin which is due to the destruction of melanin, the pigment in normal skin. This occurs in many patients but usually resolves several weeks after treatment. A risk of scarring also exists but is very small.
Will my insurance company reimburse me for these procedures?
These treatments are cosmetic in nature and therefore, not covered by insurance. If the lesion is irritated or bleeding, your insurance may reimburse you for laser surgery. However, patients are ultimately responsible for paying for this treatment.
What must I do before my laser surgery?
Avoid taking medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen for one week prior to laser treatment. If you are taking anticoagulants such as Coumadin, or have clotting problems, please let your physician know. It is also important to avoid sun exposure two weeks prior to the treatment.
What must I do following laser treatment?
Once the discoloration from the treatment has disappeared, wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher over the treated area for a period of one to two months.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call our office at (203) 792-4151 in Danbury.
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