Archive for December, 2008

Laser Scar Treatment

How to Choose the Best Laser Scar Treatment Clinic

For your laser scar treatment procedure to go smoothly, make sure you choose the right doctor. In fact, this advice applies to any medical procedure. Don’t trust your skin to the doctor willing to offer the lowest price; quality should be more important than cost in your decision making process. Laser scar treatment can be costly, but you should not base your decision solely on cost.

Consider only those doctors who are board certified dermatologists. The clinic staff should be fully trained nurses or technicians, and the procedure should be directly supervised by the doctor. Beware of spas and salons offering laser procedures; these are usually performed by non-medical personnel. This greatly increases the risks you take when undergoing any kind of laser treatment. Laser beams are powerful, and should only be used by trained professionals who can ensure your safety during the procedure. Choosing an experienced doctor is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your procedure goes smoothly.

Before making an appointment for the procedure itself, schedule consultation visits with several dermatologists offering laser treatment for scars in your area. During each consultation appointment, the doctor will evaluate your skin and the scar to be removed. Then, they will recommend a course of treatment based on the laser methods they offer that are appropriate for your situation. Ask lots of questions; the doctor should be knowledgeable about all of the available laser treatment methods. Not all lasers are the same, and they should not be treated like they are. Be sure that your doctor has specific training on the type of laser to be used during your procedure.

If the doctor seems too eager to sign you up without explaining the procedure and the risks involved, steer clear. Because laser treatment for scarring can be expensive, unfortunately a few doctors are only out for the money. Reputable doctors will be more involved in making sure your treatment is successful than in taking your money. Cost will be a consideration for many patients considering laser treatment, but it should not be the only one. Instead, ask reputable doctors about the payment plans they offer, or discounts available if you purchase multiple treatments at one time. This way, you will be able to meet the costs without compromising on quality.

When visiting the laser scar treatment clinic for your consultation visit, make sure the office is neat and clean, with friendly and helpful staff members. You should feel completely comfortable in their office. If possible, ask for the contact information for previous clients to discuss their results. Many doctors make before-and-after photographs available, but do not go on these images alone.

Choosing the right doctor is critical for a successful laser scar treatment procedure. A good doctor can decrease your risks while increasing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Laser Technologies used in Scar Treatment

Did you know that there is actually a wide variety of laser technologies used for laser scar treatment? There is not just a “one-size-fits-all” type of laser used for all scar treatment procedures. These lasers are constantly being developed, leading to more effective scar treatments with a shorter recovery time following the procedure. Today’s lasers are much improved, and much more precise than lasers used just a few short years ago.

Most of the lasers work by carefully removing the top layers of the skin. As the scar is removed, healthier and smoother skin is revealed. This type of scar removal is generally used on raised scars. For indented scars, the other main type of laser treatment for scarring is employed. These technologies work by promoting the growth of collagen under the scar, filling in indented scars from the inside.

The laser technologies used during the procedure vary in the wavelength of light emitted, which affects how deeply the lasers beam can penetrate the skin. Different wavelengths are more effective for different scar types. The most commonly used lasers include:

1. CO2 lasers. One of the oldest lasers used for scar treatment, they are most effective for acne scar treatment. They remove one layer of the skin at a time until healthy skin has been exposed.
2. Erbium lasers are very similar to CO2 lasers. However, they can be used on more skin types (darker skin), and carry a lower risk of complications, than CO2 lasers.
3. Er:YAG laser systems are much newer than either CO2 or Erbium lasers. This system is most effective against acne scarring or the edges of larger scars. It is considered more effective than earlier types of lasers, and causes less damage to the surrounding skin. After undergoing laser scar treatment using Er:YAG lasers, most patients have less swelling, resulting in a shorter recovery period. Plus, it can be used effectively on people with darker skin, whereas earlier lasers can only be used on pale skin.
4. The Pulsed Dye laser, or PDL, is a short-wavelength laser usually used for hypertrophic and keloid scarring. These reddish or pink scars are effectively treated because this laser type is drawn to the hemoglobin in blood, which is what gives the scars their color. Because of how PDL works, it can also be used to treat stretch marks.
5. Q-Switched lasers are used for pigmented scars made dark by melanin. They work by targeting the melanin in the skin. These are generally the safest laser to use on people with very dark skin.

To make matters more confusing, these laser technologies are used under several brand names. And as you can see, they vary greatly in how they are used. Your laser scar treatment clinic will choose the right laser type for your skin type and scar.

How Laser Scar Treatment Works

Laser scar treatment uses a laser beam to reduce or remove your scar. During the procedure, the doctor holds a laser device to your skin. The laser beam removes thin layers of skin, revealing healthy and smoother skin underneath. This can dramatically reduce the appearance of your scar. The same lasers used for this procedure are also used for laser skin resurfacing, which is essentially the same procedure minus the original scar.

There are several different types of lasers used for this procedure. The doctor will choose the laser used based on your skin type, as well as the scar you want to remove. Different types of scars respond to different lasers . If you have a severe scar, a more intense laser may be needed. However, this may increase your risk of side effects, as it penetrates the skin deeper than some other types of lasers. Be sure to discuss the implications of the type of laser being used with your doctor.

During the laser scar treatment procedure itself, you and the doctor will both wear protective glasses so your eyes are not affected by the laser beam. Then, your skin will be covered in a cooling gel and treated with an anesthetic. You may be given pain medication, although many people report that the procedure is not overly painful. You may feel a stinging sensation when each laser pulse enters your skin. Small scars can be treated in just ten or fifteen minutes, while larger or more severe scars could take a little longer.

During the procedure, the laser will be focused specifically on the scar, so the surrounding skin should not be affected. The lasers used for scar treatment are very precise to avoid damaging the tissue around the scar. To concentrate the laser beam on the scar, the doctor holds a handheld laser device to your skin. This device emits laser pulses which are absorbed by the skin. The process has been compared to the sanding of a tabletop. Underneath the scarred layer of skin, fresh layers of skin will be revealed. This will minimize the appearance of your scar, and your skin will be smoother. Because of the way the process works, laser scar treatment is most effective on flatter scars. However, it can be used even on more severe scars with several treatments.

Realistically, laser treatment can reduce the appearance of a scar but not completely remove it. Most people undergo three to six treatments on each scar. Each treatment will further reduce the scar’s appearance; treatments stop once you are comfortable with the final appearance of the scar. These sessions are usually spaced about a month apart to allow time for the area to heal. Most doctors prefer several smaller sessions over one drastic session; drastic treatment requires harsher lasers and a longer recovery time.

Does Laser Scar Treatment Have Side Effects?

Although laser scar treatment is relatively pain-free for most patients, it is not without its side effects. Like any other medical procedure, you should discuss the possible side effects with your doctor beforehand so that you know what you’re getting yourself into. Your doctor should discuss these in detail before allowing you to commit to the procedure. Laser treatment has a relatively low risk of side effects, and they are generally temporary. Here are the possible side effects:

* Redness and swelling of the treated skin is very common. The feeling of the procedure itself has been described as rubber bands snapping against the skin. Afterwards, the skin is usually red and swollen for a day or two. You may want to use over-the-counter pain medications if you are uncomfortable. Ice packs can also be helpful for reducing swelling.
* Blistering or crusting- Rarely, the treated skin may blister or develop a crust. This is usually due to the laser treatment provider; it can usually be avoided by using the correct laser settings. If your skin does blister, use an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Do not pick at the affected area to lower your risk of scarring.
* Infections or scarring- Rarely, the treated skin may develop an infection. This can lead to scarring if not properly treated. Use a medicated ointment on the treated area, and avoid picking or scratching at it.
* Skin sensitivity- Afterwards, your skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Wear SPF30 sunblock for at least a few months following the treatment, although of course sunblock is always a good idea. This is an unavoidable side effect of removing the outer layers of the skin, so be sure you know how to care for your sun-sensitive skin before undergoing the procedure.
* Allergic reactions- Although patients do not have allergic reactions to the laser beams, rarely an allergic reaction to the medications or creams may develop. If you know you have allergies, bring these up with your laser scar treatment doctor to lower your risk of an allergic reaction.
* Temporary discoloration- The treated skin may become lighter or darker, although it should return to normal over time. This is generally associated with aggressive laser treatments that penetrate deeper into the skin.

Generally, laser scar treatment is very safe. The side effects that do occur are temporary, and the area should be completely healed in around a month. To lower your risk of side effects, be sure you choose a reputable doctor who is fully trained in laser scar treatment methods. Take care of your treated skin after the procedure, and consider the course of treatment carefully if your doctor suggests an aggressive treatment, as this may come with an increased risk of side effects.

Laser Scar Treatments from Start to Finish

Laser scar treatment may seem scary, but once you understand what to expect during the procedure, it is not that complicated. Like any other medical procedure, it is important to understand what you are getting yourself into before committing to it. The first step you should take is to schedule a consultation session with a dermatologist who offers laser treatment. To ensure that your scar treatment procedure goes smoothly, choose a doctor at a reputable clinic.

Once you have scheduled your appointment with the doctor you have chosen, you’ll need to do a few things before undergoing laser treatment. Immediately stop tanning. A few weeks before your scheduled appointment, you’ll need to stop taking some medications and antibiotics; be sure to discuss your medications with your doctor to make sure this is possible before committing to the procedure.

On the morning of your procedure, do not apply makeup or lotion near the scar. At the start of your session, a nurse or technician will apply a special cooling gel to the area. If your scar is in a sensitive area, a local anesthetic may be applied. However, most people who undergo laser scar treatment find the pain tolerable without an anesthetic. If you are worried about the pain, consider taking over-the-counter pain medication just before the procedure.

During the procedure itself, both you and the doctor will wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the laser beam. The doctor will hold a handheld device to your scar, sending a laser pulse into your skin. With each pulse, expect to feel a slight sting. Depending on your specific scar, the session should last around fifteen or twenty minutes.

After laser scar treatment the skin around your scar will be red and a little swollen. However, the lasers used for this procedure are very precise, so the laser should not have affected much of the skin surrounding the scar. You can return to your normal activities right after the procedure; it should take a day or two for the redness and swelling to go away. It may take up to two weeks for your skin to fully recover, depending on the scar and the type of laser used.

During your recovery period, your doctor may prescribe a medicated cream. Use exactly as directed to promote healing and prevent infection. Use moisturizer frequently, and keep the area clean. Avoid scrubbing the treated skin, or anything else that can irritate it. If the treated area will be exposed to sunlight, it is imperative that you use sunblock. Otherwise your skin could become discolored.

After your first laser scar treatment, return to your doctor to evaluate the results. Now is also the time to plan any additional sessions, scheduled about a month apart. Many patients undergo three to six treatments for each scar, although the choice is yours to make. You can stop once the scar reaches an acceptable appearance; remember that it is not always possible to make the scar completely disappear.

Laser Scar Treatment Choices

When beginning the process of planning for laser scar treatment, you may be surprised at the number of choices available to you. It’s important to understand these options and how they affect you. So long as you have chosen a reputable clinic, your doctor will walk you through the available options. Although most scar treatment lasers work in the same way, there are still several kinds from which to choose. Theydiffer on the type and severity of scars they are able to treat. If your treatment is performed with the wrong kind of laser, you may not get the results you’d hoped for.

There are two main types of laser, including nonablative and ablative. Nonablative lasers work by triggering the formation of collagen under the skin. They work best for filling in indented scars and reducing redness. They include pulse dye lasers and N-Lite lasers.

The more common type, the ablative laser, works by removing the top layers of the skin. This process has been compared to sanding down a rough tabletop. Ablative lasers include CO2, Erbium, and Nd:YAG lasers. While the CO2 laser was once the one most commonly used for acne scar treatment, new lasers have since replaced it. Despite this, many doctors continue to use older styles of lasers, so make sure you understand the difference between them before agreeing a procedure. Older lasers may not be as effective or have a higher risk of side effects. Complicating the matter, these lasers are used under various brand names.

Your doctor will determine the type of laser depending on your scar. The lasers have been specifically developed for certain types of scars, including keloid, hypertrophic, and atrophic. Laser treatment is able to treat most kinds of scars. Flatter scars respond best to treatment, but even severe scarring can be treated.

Your choice may be affected by the doctor you have chosen. Not all laser scar treatment providers have access to all of the different types of lasers. For the best results, choose a doctor who offers the latest laser technology and has been fully trained in its use. It is important to calibrate the laser settings correctly to each individual patient’s needs in order for it to be as effective as it can be.

After the initial treatment session is over, you’ll have the option of additional treatments. Many people undergo a few treatments; each will further reduce the size and appearance of the scar. After any number of treatments you can decide to leave the scar alone if you are satisfied with its appearance. Many patients undergo as many as 6 or 8 laser scar treatments; eventually you may see diminishing results from continued treatment, as scars cannot be completely removed.

What are the Risks of Laser Scar Treatment?

Although laser scar treatment has a very low risk of complications, it is still important to understand them prior to committing to the treatment. Only a few complications are long lasting or permanent, but be sure your doctor fully explains them before your treatment. Here are a few of the risks associated with laser scar treatment:

• Long-lasting skin redness. While short-term redness and swelling is to be expected after laser scar treatment, in rare cases it may persist for several months or even become permanent. It usually is associated with older laser types. Be sure to tell your doctor if the redness persist a few weeks after your treatment.

• Lightening or darkening of the treated skin. This may fade away in the months following the treatment, or it may become permanent. Avoid the sun following your treatment, as this could make things worse. This risk is usually elevated with more intense lasers used to penetrate deeper into the skin. However, some lightening of the skin may be due to the laser’s removal of the top layers of skin. If these are tanned, the underlying layers will be lighter. This should be regarded as a benefit, as the skin exposed is younger and healthier.

• Scarring. Rarely, the skin may blister. If this becomes irritated or infected, it could scar. Do not pick or scratch at the treated area, keep it clean, and use an antibiotic ointment. In fact, your doctor may prescribe a special ointment for this purpose. Unfortunately, scarring is a risk of any procedure that removes the skin’s surface.

Inexperienced doctors may not know how to calibrate the laser settings correctly, or use the wrong laser for your scar and skin type. The laser settings can affect your risk of complications, since higher settings can cause more damage. Lasers should only be used in the hands of professionals trained in their use. Make sure your doctor is not only trained in laser scar treatment, but also has extensive experience using the exact type of laser to be used on your skin. To avoid complications, follow your doctor’s post-treatment care instructions carefully.

To reduce your risk of complications with laser scar treatment, choose a reputable doctor with a good track record of successful treatments. When choosing the best treatment option, consider your safety over costs or other considerations. Overly aggressive treatment methods could increase your risks. Your doctor should be able to plan a course of treatment that will lower your risk while still delivering effective results.

Is Laser Scar Treatment Suitable For Me?

Laser scar treatment is an excellent option if you have an unsightly scar or if your scars make you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. Realistically, it can only reduce, rather than completely remove, the scar. However, particularly with small or minor scars, afterwards the scar might not even be visible to you. Still, it is important to have realistic expectations when deciding to undergo laser treatment for scarring.

Laser scar treatment is an elective procedure, and it is available to adults so long as they don’t have medical complications. It is not available for teenagers; scars take several years to fully heal, so you should wait until you’re over 18 to consider the procedure. If you take Accutane for acne treatment, you’ll have to wait until you’ve stopped using the medication for a year, because Accutane can cause scarring after laser treatment. If you have skin conditions including psoriasis, dermatitis, or cystic acne, the procedure is not recommended. At the very least, the area to be treated must be free from skin infections.

The procedure works better on those with lighter skin than on those with darker skin because of the way the lasers work. If you do have darker skin, understand that you are more likely to develop hyper-pigmentation in the treated area after a laser treatment procedure.

Many types of scars, including Atrophic, Hypertrophic, and Keloid, can be treated by laser.

• Atrophic scars, usually caused by skin conditions such as acne, resulting in depressed areas in the skin.
• Hypertrophic scars are pink and raised. They stay within the initial wound area, and may grow smaller over time.
• Keloid scars are raised and reddish-purple, and may extend outside the area of the initial wound.

Newer or shallower scars may respond better to the laser treatment than older or more severe scars. On the other hand, it’s important to let your scar fully heal before considering laser treatment. Many scars will grow smaller or less noticeable with time. With multiple treatments, even the appearance of severe scars can be greatly improved.

If you’re like most people considering laser scar treatment, cost will be an important consideration. Insurance will only cover the treatment in specific cases where the scar is physically affecting you, such as a burn. However, in most cases you’ll have to pay out of pocket for the treatment. The cost varies widely based on the size and type of the scar as well as the number of treatments you undergo. When deciding if laser scar treatment is right for you, be sure to consider how you will pay for it.

If you are interested in laser scar treatment, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist who is trained in laser treatments. They will take a look at your skin and the scar you want removed, and will determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.

Benefits of Scar Treatment using Lasers

If you have been considering laser scar treatment, then of course you know the reason most people choose to undergo it: scars feel ugly! If given the choice, most people would prefer not to have scars. We all have them; they’re an unavoidable fact of daily life. After an injury, scarring results from the skin’s attempts to naturally heal itself. Most people either assume that they will be stuck with the scar forever, or turn to miracle creams or serums in the hope that the scar will magically disappear. Laser treatment provides an effective way to get rid of these unsightly scars. If you have assumed that your scarring was permanent, and are tired of living with them or trying to cover them up, then laser treatment may be right for you.

The good news for acne sufferers is that laser acne scar treatment is particularly effective against acne scarring. These permanent scars can be a lasting reminder of your acne, and they frequently occur on the face, making it all the more important to get rid of them. Acne scars are usually fairly flat, and the lasers employed in laser scar treatment are especially effective against this type of scarring.

It can also be used on other types of scarring caused by accidents, cuts, or burns. Even the redness associated with these raised scars can be reduced. Laser scar treatment can get rid of the physical scar, helping you to move past the painful reminders of the cause of the scar. Most people want to forget about the cause of their scars, whether they are due to acne, an accident, or another injury. The treatment can help the scarring fade away so that your bad memories can too.

Laser scar treatment can have a profound impact on your daily life, as you can go without the heavy makeup or clothing you may be using to cover up your scars. You’ll no longer have to choose your makeup or clothing based on hiding your scars. This can come with a great sense of freedom. It can be particularly helpful if you have facial scarring, which are hard to cover without layers of makeup. After laser facial scar treatment, you’ll be able to show off your natural skin and stop hiding behind the makeup. You’ll be able to wear the clothing you want, without worrying about whether your scars are showing.

Many people find their self-confidence lifted after undergoing laser treatment. The procedure can help your outside appearance match your inner beauty. If you’ve ever wished that your scars would just disappear, laser treatment may give you that chance.

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