Reddened facial tissue due to vascular problems can be safely resolved with our vascular lesion treatments. Broken blood vessels and birthmarks, such as port wine stains, can impact your confidence and self-esteem. Our treatments are beneficial for children who are born with vascular lesions that could cause them to be treated differently. Laser treatment is now available to remove visible capillaries, port wine stains, hemangiomas (bright red birthmarks) and acne scars.
What is vascular lesion treatment?
A pulsed dye laser is the gold standard for the removal of vascular lesions and has been successfully used for over 15 years. It is a safe procedure, involving laser light energy being applied to the skin. Vascular lesions absorb the light energy, heating to the point of coagulation. Once this occurs, the lesions are absorbed naturally by the body during the healing process.
How does the PDL (pulsed dye laser) work?
The pulsed dye laser was specifically designed to select blood vessels in a vascular lesion and leave surrounding tissue unharmed. This is why it can be used safely, removing the pigmented tissue without damaging the surrounding skin. This type of laser is so safe that it can be used on children without adverse side effects. The laser includes a cooling device which further protects the skin from overheating and maintains your comfort during the treatment.
What conditions can be treated with the pulsed dye laser?
The following conditions can be treated with the pulsed dye laser:
- Telangiectasia (blood vessels that cause red thread-like lines on the skin)
- Rosacea (red facial lesions which can cause one to look sunburned)
- Port-wine stains (red birthmarks that are generally present at birth)
- Hemangiomas (a cluster of bright red vessels comprising a birthmark)
- Spider veins (visible veins which can occur on the legs and face)
- Poikiloderma (red color pigment on the skin which can be caused by sun damage)
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Contact UsWhat is the recovery from treatments with a pulsed dye laser?
Following your treatment, the treated areas of your skin will be sensitive, mildly swollen and warm to the touch. You will be asked to avoid sun exposure and given a topical ointment to apply during the healing process. Ice can be used to mitigate any discomfort. You should avoid any abrasive soaps or rinses to that area of skin for the next few days. You may need to wear a compression bandage depending on where the treatment was performed.
What to expect during your pulsed dye laser treatment?
Your physician will fit you with eye protection to ensure that your eyes are not affected by the laser light during your treatment. The laser handpiece will be passed over the treatment area. You will feel a cooling sensation before the laser pulse which will help to keep the skin at a comfortable temperature. Many patients prefer to have topical anesthesia applied before the treatment to prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
What are the side effects associated with the pulsed dye laser?
There may be some redness, swelling, and sensitivity after your pulsed dye laser treatment. This is normal and tolerated well by most patients. The skin may change color temporarily before the lesion is broken down by the body. All of these side effects are temporary and will resolve on their own.
Am I a candidate for pulsed dye laser treatment?
Pulsed dye laser treatment could be an ideal treatment for you if you are seeking the removal of skin redness or red vascular lesions. If you have a darker complexion, the pulsed dye laser may be an option for you at a lower setting. We have additional treatment options available for those with darker complexions which we can discuss in a private consultation.
When will I see results from my PDL treatment?
Your results could be noticeable immediately after your laser treatment or could require some time to reach optimal results. This will depend on the condition being treated and the number of treatments you need. Many patients will notice the treated skin becomes tighter and more firm.
How many treatments of PDL will I need?
The number of treatments you need will depend on the condition you are treating and its severity. During your consultation, we can inform you about the number of treatments recommended for your circumstances. Most patients will require a series of up to three treatments.