Lasers at Dermatology Consultants

Lasers work by using a high energy beam of light aimed at a specific target in the skin. The target in the skin absorbs the light and its energy, in doing so it is damaged or destroyed.

We currently use the Candela V-Beam Laser at all our offices which targets blood vessels in the skin.  We also have a Palomar Pulsed Light Laser.

These lasers can treat the following (and more) conditions; here are some of the most common uses:

Port Wine Stains (red or purple birth marks on the face or extremities)

While these birthmarks may appear harmless with time they will thicken and start bleeding spontaneously. Once they thicken they are very difficult if not impossible to treat with a laser, so treating early is very important. Treatment of these lesions are often covered by insurance (instead of is covered) in Minnesota. Be sure to check with the insurance carrier to determine coverage. Treatment can leave a bruise on the skin for up to 10 days.

Blood Vessels on the face

Many people have noticeable blood vessels on the face, especially around the nose. They often run in families. The laser can target these blood vessels removing them from the skin. While the laser can clear these vessels you may continue to make new ones over time, usually years later. They will respond to treatment as well. (The average price range for treatment is approximately $250 – 750, likely number of treatments 1 to 4). Treatment can be done leaving a bruise or without a bruise. More treatments are needed if a non-bruising setting is used.

Spider angiomas

These are solitary red papules, often on the face. They do not turn cancerous but can be unsightly and sometimes bleed. Removing them is cosmetic. (the average price range for treatment is approximately $150 - $300, likely number of treatments 1-2). Treatment can leave a bruise on the skin for up to 10 days.

Rosacea

Rosacea is characterized by acne like papules and pustules on the face along with redness and new blood vessel growth. While topical and oral medications can help with the papules and pustules often the facial redness will not go away. The pulse dye laser can target the blood vessels not only improving appearance but reducing the symptoms of burning and stinging. Despite the fact that the symptoms of pain and discomfort are helped with this laser treatment is often considered cosmetic and must be paid for by the patient. (The average price range per treatment is approximately $250-750 (depending on the area treated). Likely number of treatments 1 to 4). Treatment can be done leaving a bruise or without a bruise. More treatments are needed if a non-bruising setting is used.

Cherry Angiomas

These are solitary bright red papules, often on the chest and back but they can occur on the face and neck. They do not turn cancerous but can be unsightly. Removing them is cosmetic. (The average price range per treatment is approximately $150 - $300, likely number of treatments 1-2). Treatment can leave a bruise on the skin for up to 10 days.

Warts