This laser offers quick, comfortable and effective treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.
How does the laser work?
The laser generates in intense beam of light. This beam brings energy to a specific site, through a small handpiece connected to the laser console. The laser light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin (bright red blood cells carrying oxygen) and melanin/pigment (black or brown pigment found in the skin) causing decomposition or destruction by heat of unwanted cells, while leaving healthy cells intact.
What is a vascular lesion?
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.
What is a pigmented lesion?
Melanin is the dark pigment present in skin and it 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.
What should the patient expect during and after treatment?
Treatment may vary depending upon patient characteristics and the area being treated. You will be asked to wear special goggles to protect your eyes from the intense beam of laser light. You will be placed in a reclining position, depending on the location of the treatment. The doctor will use a pencil thin handpiece to direct a beam of laser light to the lesion. In most cases, anesthesia is not required. Some patients report feeling a slight stinging sensation during the treatment followed by some redness which usually goes away in 2 to 4 hours. Some swelling may also be experienced and may last 1 to 2 days.
Unlike old technologies, the DioLite 532 treatment will not cause any purple skin discoloration or bruised appearance to the treated skin. Post operative care is minimal. Your doctor may ask you to use an antibacterial treatment on the treated area for a short period of time and will suggest that you stay out of the sun during the healing process. Final treatment results should be evident within 10 to 14 days after treatment for vascular lesions and within 2 to 3 weeks after treatment for pigmented lesions. In the meantime, normal daily activities can be resumed with only a slight redness evident at the treatment area.
What does the laser look and sound like?
The laser is small, about the size of a DVD player. As pulses of energy leave the end of the handpiece fiber, you will hear a soft beeping sound.
What conditions are treated with the laser?
Vascular lesions:
Facial telangiectasia's, which are spider veins caused by a dilation of capillary vessels or arterioles.
Cherry Angiomas, which are slightly raised red lesions.
Spider Angiomas, which are slightly raised red spiderlike lesions.
Rosacea, which are red facial lesions around the nose and cheeks causing a sunburned look.
Pigmented lesions:
Lentigines, which are flat brown spots on the skin present with frequent sun exposure.
Keratoses, which are slightly elevated pigmented spots often found on the back and hands.
Freckles, which are the brownish spots on skin and are most common on people with fair skin.
What are the benefits of laser treatment?
Laser treatment offers excellent and consistent outcomes with minimal to no discoloration, swelling or complications. Friendly and gentle treatment which is typically performed without anesthesia and with minimal discomfort. Simple treatment with minimal care before and after treatment. Comfortable surrounding with the treatment being performed in your doctors office and taking only minutes.
How will I know if laser treatment is right for me?
Ask your doctor. After a brief examination your doctor can determine if laser treatment is appropriate for you.