Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a Pulsed Dye Laser?
Pulsed Dye Lasers deliver an intense but gentle burst of light into
selectively targeted areas of the skin. The light is absorbed by specific
blood vessels or melanin pigmented areas in the dermis depending on the
condition being treated. Factors such as the age, color, and type of
lesions, as well as the location on the body, all determine whether lesions
can be removed.
What is the procedure for being treated with Pulse Dye Laser?
Your practitioner will ensure you are as comfortable as possible; most
patients are reclined or lying down depending on the area being treated.
Both the patient and the practitioner will be wearing protective eye wear.
When treatment begins, the laser will be calibrated and parameters will be
set based on the specific condition being treated, each condition and each
individual is unique and these settings maximize the results you will see
following treatment.
Are there any requirements for treatment - how do I know if I qualify for
treatment?
The only requirement is that you have a desire to improve the condition of
you skin. Most patients who revive cosmetic laser treatments opt for
procedures to correct skin conditions not out of medical necessity. but
because they are interested in improving the appearance of their skin
without invasive surgery that would cause downtime away from daily
activities. From total facial rejuvenation which involves the reduction and
removal of red and brown lesions with a general firming of the skin, to the
removal of sun-spot damage, patients should discuss with their practitioner
which treatments are right for them.
Does it hurt?
No anesthetics are required but they may be used. The feeling most patients
report is a warming or tingling sensation during treatment. The skin being
treated is additionally protected by Candela's dynamic cooling method, DCD,
which delivers a cooling mist on the skin before the laser pulse is emitted.
This cooling mist increases comfort during treatment, as well as protects
the skin to minimize side effects like redness.
Is PDL Treatment safe?
Yes. In fact, treatment is so safe that it has been successfully used since
the 1980's for the treatment of port wine stain birthmarks in infants and
young children. During treatment the epidermis is protected by Candela's
exclusive dynamic cooling method, DCD, which sprays a cooling mist onto the
targeted area of skin before each laser pulse, maximizing comfort and
protecting the skin during treatment.
Are the results of Pulse Dye Laser Treatment Permanent?
Permanency of results depend on many factors, like the condition being
treated, or lifestyle of the patient. For example, if a patient has sun
spots removed and continues to spend time in the sun without adequate skin
protection, it is likely that the sun spots will return. Talk with your
practitioner about your goals and expectations for treatment.
How soon will I see results of my treatment?
Most patients notice beneficial results right away, and often times feel a
firming or tightening of the treated are. The results of laser therapy vary
depending on the condition that is being treated and the number of
treatments required for clearance.
What are the Side Effects of Treatment?
Some patients experience redness or mild swelling in the treated are
immediately following treatment, this usually goes away in a few hours.
Occasionally purport, a laser bruise, may occur. Purport is transient and
usually disappears in three to five days.
Are there any special precautions I need to take before or after
treatment?
It is recommended to avoid sun exposure before and throughout treatment to
maximize results. A sunblock of SPF 30 or higher should be won daily during
this time. Post treatment care guidelines depend on the condition treated,
and should be discussed with your practitioner.
Is Pulse Dye Laser Treatment covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies do not offer reimbursement for cosmetic aesthetic
procedures. Our office is unable to bill insurance for this procedure.
How much does Pulse Dye Laser Treatment cost?
Cost depends on the size of the area being treated as well as the condition
being treated. Call the office to set up a consultation to learn more about
treatment fees.
See what our patients are saying about Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser:
❝I left feeling that maybe I was sun burned. No discomfort whatsoever❞
❝I would refer one of my friends to have it done.❞
❝I was nervous during my first treatment of sunspots on my chest because I wasn't sure what to expect, it was over before I knew it and didn't feel a thing❞