Laser Treatment of Vascular Lesions
The following is general information about the treatment of your skin with the pulsed dye laser.
What is a laser?
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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 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 light and power output of the laser determine its medical application. The vascular lesion laser is specifically used for the treatment of blood vessel growths.
Lasers have been used by dermatologists since the 1960’s. Recent technological advances have made laser surgery the preferred method of treatment for a variety for conditions.
What does the laser do?
The vascular lesion laser was specifically designed to treat blood vessel disorders including hemangiomas, port wine stains, telangiectasias and angiomas. The laser destroys blood vessels while leaving the top layer of the skin intact. Blood vessels on the lower legs take a longer time to respond to treatment and dark blue vessels do not respond at all. This laser is also used to treat warts, which are very vascular.
How does the skin look following the treatment?
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The skin immediately turns gray to purple and resembles a bruise. This color disappears over a 1 to 2 week period. Most patients do not require any post-treatment wound care and can wear make-up a few days following the procedure if desired. It is important however, that the make-up be removed gently.
What should I do if wound care is necessary?
If you develop a crust following the treatment, do not wear make-up. Cleanse the wound twice daily with mild soap and water and 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?
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The most common side effect is a temporary discoloration of the skin which is a result of inflammation caused by destroying the blood vessels. This resolves within several months after treatment. A risk of scarring also exists but is very small.
Will my insurance company reimburse me for this procedure?
This procedure is almost always cosmetic in nature and therefore, not covered by insurance. In rare instances, if a lesion is growing rapidly or bleeding your insurance may cover the procedure. However, patients are ultimately responsible for paying for this treatment.
What must I do before laser surgery?
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Avoid taking medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen for one week prior to the laser treatment. If you are taking anticoagulants such as Coumadin or have clotting problems, please tell your physician. You should also avoid sun exposure for two weeks before the treatment.
What must I do following laser surgery?
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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