General Information
What is Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser?
The Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser is one of the most trusted blemish removal systems in use. It has a laser that only treats your imperfection, while leaving the rest of your skin unharmed. It also has a special cooling system that guarantees a more comfortable experience.
How does Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser work?
The operation of this device is simple. A pulsed laser beam is emitted from a wand after a cooling spray is administered. The heat from this laser is absorbed only by the areas of hyperpigmentation. The blood vessels of the lesion coagulate, after which the body absorbs them. Blood is then redirected lower in your skin, and the blemish fades or disappears.
Where can Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser be used?
The laser from this system is intense, but gentle. Because of this, it can be used anywhere on the body. If it is to be used near the eyes, special goggles are provided for your protection. This means that rosacea, port wine stains, stretch marks, red acne scars, and spider veins anywhere on the body can be eliminated.
How does Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser compare to other procedures?
Its gentleness and ability to be used anywhere on the body is one advantage it has over other systems. This comes from the dynamic cooling system that is equipped on this device. This cooling system practically eliminates blistering and purpura, making it among the top choices for remedying rosacea.
Who is a candidate for Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser?
People of all ages with lighter skin tones are good candidates for Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser treatment.
How is Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser performed?
Initially you will want to make sure that there is no hair or make-up over the area to be treated. Hair may lessen the effect of the laser, and make-up may absorb heat and cause minor burns. When you arrive at your doctor’s office, you will be made comfortable before the procedure begins. Next, they will pass the wand over the area being treated. No local anesthetic is needed; however, this option is usually offered for patients who prefer using an anesthetic. The laser will then coagulate the blood vessels, and the body will absorb them. After that, you are on your way.
How long does recovery take after Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser treatments?
This is a noninvasive procedure and recovery time is short. An icepack may be needed to control discomfort for the first 24 hours. For the first few weeks, sun block on the treated area should be worn if sun exposure is expected. Also, do not use abrasive soaps or scrubs on the treated area for a few days.
What will the results be like?
The results are not the same for everyone. For most patients, the blemish will disappear. For others, the blemish will fade. Some patients may require follow-up treatments to achieve optimal results.
What risks should patients be aware of?
There is relatively no risk, but there are some possible side effects. These are generally mild and usually include redness at the site or mild swelling. When side effects do occur, they generally disappear in a few hours.
Is Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser FDA approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes, the pulsed dye laser, like the rest of the Vbeam line, is approved for use in the USA.
Will insurance typically cover Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser?
Most cosmetic treatments are not covered by private insurance companies. In the case of port wine stain or rosacea, some companies make exceptions. Talk to your insurance provider to determine coverage. If assistance is needed, consult with the billing specialist of your doctor’s office. Many providers offer deferred payment options or payment plans.
What type of skin is treatable with Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser?
Unfortunately, due to the manner in which the laser treats hyperpigmented skin, dark skin tones do not respond well to this treatment. While patients with light skin will experience significant results, those with skin types IV and V should consult with their doctor to determine which treatment options are best suited for them.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By OnlineSurgery.com Staff
Updated: July 2, 2010
