DERMA PRICE

Vbeam Laser

What is a laser?

The term LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Lasers are devices that convert electrical energy into light energy. We use different lasers for different skin conditions.

What is the Vbeam laser?

The Vbeam Laser is a laser specifically designed for the treatment of telangiectasias (blood vessels) and port wine stains (vascular birthmarks). It is effective for the treatment of red skin, red scars, red stretch marks and in hastening the resolution of bruising. The Vbeam laser selectively treats underlying blood vessels without injuring the top layer of the skin. This is possible because the wavelength of laser light (595 nanometers) is selectively absorbed by blood vessels and is delivered so quickly that it can destroy these lesions with minimal chance of scarring the surrounding skin. In addition, the Vbeam laser’s patented Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) delivers a spray of cool air prior to the laser pulse to protect the epidermis and lessen discomfort from the procedure.

What is a telangiectasia?

Telangiectasias are enlarged blood vessels that occur most commonly on the face but can occur anywhere on the body. They are caused by sun damage, underlying skin conditions such as rosacea, hormonal factors, following surgery and trauma.

What does the skin look like after treatment?

The appearance of the skin following treatment depends on the settings used to treat a range of vascular lesions. In most instances the skin will temporarily appear erythematous (red) with mild swelling. For certain blood vessels and vascular lesions, settings may be selected that will make the skin appear purple for up to ten to fourteen days. If the latter settings are required for optimal response, a green concealer can be applied following treatment to camouflage the purple discoloration.

Is there any special care required following treatment?

It is recommended that you wear a broad spectrum sunscreen following treatment. If you develop a purple discoloration following the procedure, makeup can be applied but should be removed gently. If you develop a burn, sore or crusted area following treatment, you should not apply makeup to the site and contact your physician.

How many treatments will be required for resolution of my blood vessels?

The number of treatments required for optimal resolution of blood vessels varies, but a minimum of three treatments is usually required. While most patients will experience resolution or significant improvement in blood vessels and redness, some patients will not respond even after multiple treatments.

How painful are treatments with the Vbeam laser procedure?

Most patients experience only minor transient discomfort during treatment.

What are the risks of laser removal of blood vessels?

Short term side effects include reddening of the skin and local swelling over the area treated. Depending on the settings chosen, a purple discoloration of the skin lasting up to ten to fourteen days is possible. Rarely, blistering, a burn, temporary or permanent pigment change in the skin, a flare of herpes or scarring can occur.

Is laser treatment of blood vessels covered by insurance?

Laser treatment of blood vessels is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by most insurance plans.