laser surgery
Pulsed Dye Laser/IPL
The pulsed dye laser was designed to improve a variety of benign vascular (red) lesions on the surface of the skin. Pulsed dye laser treatment treats port-wine stains, hemangiomas, facial veins, angiomas and redness associated with rosacea. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is used for treatment of blood vessels and can also reduce sun freckling.
How does it work?
The laser sends a pulse of yellow light to the skin, which is absorbed by the blood vessels in the skin. The absorbed light causes specific destruction of the targeted vessel.
What can a pulsed dye laser treat?
- Unsightly Red blood vessels on the face
- Port-wine stains
- Hemangiomas (raised red spots)
- Angiomas (red spots)
- Some redness associated with rosacea
What happens during treatment?
A small handpiece will be held by the doctor and applied to the skin to deliver the laser pulse. A spray of cool air is felt, followed by a pulse from the laser. The number of pulses needed depends on the size of the area to be treated.
Is pulsed dye laser treatment safe?
Pulsed dye laser treatment has an outstanding safety record. Modern lasers such as the one at the UW Dermatologic Surgery Center have extra safety features, including a cooling system to protect the surface of the skin. Common Side effects may include some redness, possible bruising and swelling in the area of treatment. These are temporary if they occur. Permanent side effects are rare. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of treatment at your first visit.
Is anesthetic needed?
Patients feel only a slight discomfort from the laser pulse. This feeling has been described as similar to snapping a rubber band on the skin. Most patients do not require any anesthetic. However in some patients with large areas to treat a topical anesthetic may be applied before treatment. You can discuss this with your doctor.
What precautions should be taken before and after treatment?
Avoid sun exposure prior to and soon after treatment using clothes and sunscreen. Tanned skin may have a higher risk of side effects with laser. If you are tanned, we recommend delaying treatment until the tan has faded.
Does insurance cover these procedures?
Most of the conditions treated by pulsed dye laser are considered cosmetic and not billable to insurance. Some conditions are covered by insurance due to the seriousness of the condition. Check with your health insurance company to find out what they cover
How can i make an appointment?
You can make an appointment for a consultation by calling 206-598-6647.