Frequently Asked Questions

Kathleen Behr, M.D.

 

What is this…

With our new laser, Dr. Behr is able to offer the latest in treatment options to eliminate unattractive skin lesions with the gentle action of a light beam.  The Diolite 532 laser allows a non-traumatic and precise treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions that are comfortable, safe and effective.  The mild and precise treatment characteristics of the laser provide consistent results and, in most cases, treatments are performed without any anesthesia or pain.

 

Are laser treatments safe?

Yes.  Lasers began their use as medical instruments in the early 1960’s.  Since then, lasers have been safely and effectively used by many specialties, including dermatology and plastic surgery for a wide range of treatments.  In the hands of a trained health care professional, the use of a laser is safe and effective.

 

How does the Laser work?

A laser generates a beam of intense, concentrated light.  This beam of light brings energy to a specific site through a small hand piece connected to the laser. The laser light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin (bright red blood cells contain oxygen) and melanin/pigment (black or brown pigment found in the skin) causing decompression 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.  Spider veins (telangiectasia) are the most common lesions.

 

What is a pigmented lesion?

Melanin is the dark pigment in skin and is produced by melanocytes.  Pigmented lesions occur when an abundance of melanocytes are found in the skin.  When dark pigment multiples, it forms freckles, brown age spots and moles.

 

What should our patients expect during and after treatment?

Treatment may vary, depending upon patient characteristics and the area being treated.  You will be asked to wear eyewear to protect your eyes from the intense beam of laser light.  Dr. Behr will use a “pencil thin” hand piece to direct a beam of laser light to the specific area of treatment.

 

Some patients report a feeling of slight stinging sensation during the treatment followed by some redness which usually goes away in two to three hours.  Some swelling may also be experienced and may last one to two days.  There will be little to no purple skin discoloration or bruised appearance to the treated skin.  Postoperative care is minimal.  We recommend that you use an anti-bacterial ointment on the treated area for a short period of time and suggest that you stay out of the sun during the healing process.  Final treatment results should be evident within 3-4 weeks after treatment for vascular lesions.  In the meantime, normal activities can be resumed with only a slight redness evident in treatment areas.

 

What does the laser look and sound like?

The laser is small, about the size of a VCR.  As pulses of energy leave the end of the hand piece fiber, you will hear sort of a beeping sound.

 

What conditions are treated with the laser?

Vascular lesions

Telangiectasia-facial 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 cheek causing a sunburn look

Pigmented lesions

Lentigines-flat, brown spots on the skin, present of skin with frequent sun exposure

Keratoses-slightly elevated pigmented spots often found on the back and hands

Freckles-a brownish spot on the skin common on people with fair skin

Dermatosis Papulosis Nigra-small, black marks seen primarily on people of Asian or African descent

 

As a patient, what does the laser mean to me?  What are the benefits?

Excellent and consistent outcome with minimal to no discoloration, swelling or complications.  Friendly and gentle treatment.  Finally, comfortable surroundings.  The treatment is performed in our office and takes only a few minutes.

                                                                                                                                    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                 

 

 

Laser Treatment for the Removal of Skin Blemishes