Procedures
Laser Spot Removal Treatments
What are Laser Spot Removal treatments?
A laser treatment that is used on the facial area to treat:
- Pigmented lesions
Melanin is the dark pigment present in skin and is produced by melanocytes. Pigmented lesions occur when an abundance of melanocytes are found in the skin. When dark pigment multiplies, it forms freckles, brown age spots and moles.- Lentigines - flat, brown spots on the skin; present on skin with frequent sun exposure
- Keratoses - slightly elevated pigmented spots often found on the back and hands
- Freckles - brownish spots on the skin; common on people with fair skin
- Dermatosis Papulosis Nigra - small, black marks seen primarily on people of Asian or African descent
- Vascular lesions
A vascular lesion is formed by abnormally large or numerous blood vessels located directly under the surface of the skin. These vessels may be visible through the skin or result in a red appearance of the skin.- Facial Telangiectasia - spider veins caused by a dilation of capillary vessels or arterioles
- Cherry Angiomas - slightly raised, red lesions
- Spider Angiomas - slightly raised, red spider-like lesions
- Rosacea - red facial lesions around the nose and cheeks causing a sunburn look
What are the advantages of having Laser Spot Removal treatments?
Eliminates undesired spots, lesions and spider veins from the facial area.
Who is a good candidate for Laser Spot Removal treatments?
If you have:
- Brown or black spots on the skin
- Slightly raised red lesions on the face
- Fine facial veins
What does a Laser Spot Removal treatment involve?
- Pigmented lesions: A small handpiece directs a beam of laser light to the lesion. The laser targets the melanin in these lesions and the melanin is vaporized into much smaller molecules that are then absorbed and removed by the body.
- Vascular lesions: During your treatment, light energy is delivered through a special handpiece with filters to the targeted vein. The resulting heat coagulates or clots the blood and destroys the function of the vein. This process does not affect any of the surrounding tissue. Over time, the vein will be absorbed by the body and will disappear from sight.
How long does a Laser Spot Removal treatment take?
It may vary depending upon patient characteristics and the area being treated. Usually no longer than 30 minutes.
How many Laser Spot Removal treatments are required?
It may vary depending upon patient characteristics and the area being treated.
- Pigmented lesions: Multiple treatments spaced 6 weeks apart are sometimes necessary for more darkly pigmented lesions. Small, lightly colored lesions are usually gone after one treatment
- Vascular lesions: One treatment may be sufficient for clearance but a second visit is recommended for the best results. These treatments occur on an average of every six to twelve weeks.
How long does it take to recover from a Laser Spot Removal treatment?
- Pigmented lesions: For the first day, the treated areas may appear slightly red and swollen. Occasionally, crusting will occur. It is important that you keep the treated area clean and resist the temptation to pick at any crusting that might be present.
- Vascular lesions: You may have bruising that can last a week or two.
When can I expect to see results from my Laser Spot Removal treatments?
Your final result may take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks.
When can I go back to work/resume my normal activities after having a Laser Spot Removal treatment?
Immediately.
How long will the results from having Laser Spot Removal treatments last?
The results are permanent, however the treatment does not prevent the growth of new lesions.