Pulse Dye Laser – CAQ
What are the common applications?
Scars and Stretch Marks, Freckles, Sun and Age Spots, Rosacea, Port Wine Stains, Hemangiomas, Cherry Angiomas, Skin Rejuvenation, Cheek and Nose Redness, Facial Veins and broken blood vessels, Wrinkles, Warts, Acne, Poikiloderma (neck redness from chronic sun exposure).
What is Pulsed Dye Laser used for?
The following are best treated with the PDL: spider veins on the face (single or multiple), changes of rosacea, port wine stains and some other birthmarks, small cherry angiomas on the body, scars, and stretch marks. At Primera Plastic Surgery in Orlando, we also use the Pulse Dye Laser for some warts.
Who may have PDL?
This laser can be used for all ages and all skin types.
Is Pulsed Dye Laser safe?
PDL is a safe and effective method of treating conditions related to blood vessels. The procedure is performed by a nurse with supervision by a physician, or by a physician.
Is Pulsed Dye Laser painful?
When the laser is applied to the skin, patients feel some stinging, similar in sensation to the snapping of a small rubber band against the skin. Most patients tolerate PDL without any topical anesthetic; however, patients may apply an anesthetic cream to the area being treated for 30 minutes prior to the procedure. A cooling spray is used on the skin.
How many treatments are required?
Typically, a series of treatments (3-5) are required for best results. Larger areas or deeper discolorations may require more treatments. These are usually done 1 month apart and no anesthesia, injections or prep is required.
How long does the laser surgery take?
The procedure lasts 5 minutes and patients return to work the same day.
What are typical side effects?
Side effects are generally minimal. The most common side effect is bruising. With the V-Beam bruising can be minimized or even eliminated. If it should occur, bruising is most pronounced in the first few days and usually clears within 5-10 days. Less common side effects include temporary pigmentary changes usually lasting a few weeks. Sunblock for one month before treatment is recommended as tanned skin blocks the laser light and results in a higher chance of side effects. Scarring is extremely rare with this laser. Avoidance of sun for 2 weeks is recommended.
What do I do to take care of myself after?
Skin care after the procedure is straightforward. A moisturizer, such as Vaseline, applied 2-3 times per day will help protect the skin and speed healing. Sun protection will help minimize the chance of pigmentary changes. Makeup can be used starting on day two. If any crust forms, patients should not pick or try to remove it. Any bruising fades relatively quickly over a 3-10 day period.
How will I look following each treatment?
The PDL may cause some bruising in the treated area which lasts from 5-10 days. In many cases, Dr. Gross can adjust the settings to minimize this. A concealer (available in our office) may be used to cover the bruising.
