What do port wine stains, small skin blood vessels, rosacea and hemangiomas have in common?

All of these are vascular skin blemishes that result from an abnormal collection of blood vessels (vascular lesions).

Port wine stain-patients are born with this large blemish that can occupy a large amount of the skin, often on the face. These blemishes are best treated during infancy when the skin is thin, but can also be successfully treated in adults.

Blood vessels visible in skin- Blood vessels are often visible through the skin in the face and legs. They are also present on other areas of the body. Small facial and extremity blood vessels are referred to as telangectasia. Small vessels are easily treated with the laser. Larger varicose veins require more aggressive treatment, sometimes surgery. They are not usually treatable with the vascular laser.

Rosacea-this is a chronic skin inflammatory condition of the face and neck. It is thought to result from long term sun exposure. It usually occupies the cheeks and nose. Certain types of rosacea produce a dark red appearance of the neck and chest (poikiloderma).The redness is a result of an abnormal collection of tiny blood vessels in the upper skin layers The blood vessels contribute to the continued skin irritation.

Hemangiomas-this is a blood vessel tumor. It can occur at birth or can begin to grow in adulthood. These tumors are most successfully treated when they are small, whether the patient is an infant or an adult.

Laser removal of vascular lesions

Just about everyone has a few visible blood vessels (telangectasia) visible on their skin. However some are quite conspicuous (port wine stain, hemangioma) and can detract from your skin's natural beauty.

Vascular blemishes can be successfully lightened or removed with modern laser technology. A laser removes the blemish with the energy of light, leaving normal skin alone. Vascular blemishes are either lightened or removed when the laser light passes through the skin. The laser light is absorbed by the red color of the blood inside the vessel and produces heat which shrinks the blood vessel.

Dr. Galoob has been using lasers to treat vascular blemishes for more than 15 years. The Pulsed Dye and YAG lasers used by Dr. Galoob are two of the most advanced lasers available for the removal of vascular blemishes. The treatment provides a combination of specific light color and rapid pulses that provides maximum removal and leaves normal skin alone.

Questions and Answers:

How many treatments will it take?

The number of treatments will depend on the depth and size of the blemish. Most vascular blemishes can be completely removed with 3-4 treatments.

Does the treatment hurt?

Each laser pulse causes heat when it contacts the red blood pigment. This discomfort can range from a mild snapping sensation to more discomfort. Some patients tolerate treatments without any topical or local anesthesia. Dr. Galoob can provide either topical or injectible anesthetic (like the dentist) to make you comfortable during treatment. Constant cold air is applied to the skin during treatment to make you more comfortable.

Will any of the blemish remain after treatment?

With enough treatments, the abnormal area can be completely removed. Some patients are satisfied with fading and partial removal. Some want complete removal. Overaggressive treatments can cause scarring and undesirable result. The goal is to gradually fade the discoloration and avoid a scar if possible.

How often are treatments performed?

Treatments can be performed as often as every two weeks or less frequently if desired. The blemish continues to fade in between each treatment. This interval allows skin healing and fading to maximize before the next treatment.

What types of vascular lesions will the laser remove?

The Pulsed Dye laser and YAG laser can be used to remove vascular blemishes of all types. Deeper vessels, such as varicose veins and larger vessels may require other types of treatment. Dr. Galoob will identify your specific type of lesion and discuss the removal success rate associated with it.

Why doesn't' the laser remove my normal skin pigmentation also?

Pulsed Dye and YAG laser light selectively targets concentrations of red blood cell pigment. Your body's natural regenerative system will replace normal pigment after the abnormal blemishes are removed. This allows your skin to return to its natural state.

Can the blemish come back?

Common blemishes and small vessels do not return. Some birthmarks may return after a period of several months to a year. However, the procedure can be repeated with similar results.

What type of post-treatment care is necessary?

If there is surface skin irritation, an antibacterial ointment will be initially applied to the area. A shower can be taken the same day, but avoid scrubbing the treated area. Since treated areas are sensitive to the suns rays, it is imperative that you always wear sunscreen. Failure to wear a protective sunscreen will allow more sun damage to occur and can result in new blemishes or darkening of the treated area. Dr. Galoob will recommend the appropriate level of Sunscreen for your specific skin type.

Treatment

Special precautions are taken to protect your eyes and personnel who will be in the room. Everyone wears special glasses or eye shields. (Our practice meets the standards of the AAAHC (www.aaahc.org) for laser safety). Lasers are maintained and calibrated on a regular basis and a technician is available at all times during the procedure.

The procedure will either be performed by Dr. Galoob or one of his experienced staff. Initial laser settings are verified by Dr. Galoob prior to each treatment. It is common for him to apply a test pulse to himself as a last safety check before treatment. The laser is pulsed in multiple spots over the area for complete coverage (like turning a flashlight off and on each time). Each pulse feels like being snapped with a rubber band. Cold air is applied over the skin during the treatment to provide comfort and to protect the skin from heat produced when the laser light contacts the hair root. Afterwards, the skin may be slightly red. Occasionally irritation and blistering may occur. A soothing cream will be placed on the skin after treatment. Irritation may last for several days.

If you are interested in learning more about Pulsed Dye and YAG laser treatments for vascular blemishes and other vascular lesions contact our office and we will be happy to answer your questions.