Patient Assessment
- Hemangiomas,
port-wine stains, venous malformations and lymphangiomas are generally present from
infancy. These lesions are classified as congenital (from birth) and frequently appear on
or around the head and neck.
- Cherry angiomas,
pyogenic granulomas, and venous lakes may be a result of trauma, hormones, photo (sun)damage
or may be simply present as a spontaneous disorder. These lesions are classified as acquired
(can occur anytime) and appear anywhere on the body.
A patient may present for
treatment with the smallest hemangioma, to the largest port-wine stain. Each patient will be
evaluated in Dr. Al Rustom's Medical & Day Care Surgery Centre to determine suitability for laser treatment. A medical history, as
well as details of any past treatment for these types of lesions is necessary prior to treatment with the laser.
Understanding Laser Treatment
A laser produces a beam of highly
concentrated light. Different types of lasers product different colors of light. The color of light
produced by a particular laser is the key to the laser's effect on hemangiomas and birthmarks. The laser's light
energy seals the vessels to the lesion closed and allows the now-diminished vessels to be reabsorbed by the body.
Treatment Course
Treatments are routinely done in an outpatient surgical office setting, lasting an average of five to 30 minutes.
Longer treatments may be necessary for very large areas and may require general anesthesia. Many children with
vascular lesions experience a 50 percent clearing of the lesion with a single treatment. Other lesions may require
six to 12 treatments, or even more, depending on the severity of the lesions.
Patients have compared the sensation of the lasers to the snap of a rubber
band against the skin. However, topical numbing cream may be used to decrease the discomfort. Also, newer lasers
used at Children’s have a “cooling handpiece” that decreases pain and also allows stronger pulses
to treat birthmarks that have not been responsive to prior laser therapy.
Following treatment, ice packs may be used to soothe the treated area.
Topical antibiotic cream or ointment and/or a bandage or patch may prevent abrasion of the treated area, however
these aren’t usually necessary.
Recovery
The appearance of the treated area
immediately after a laser session will vary from patient to patient depending on the extent of treatment.
After-effects may include redness, bruising, light crusting, or tenderness, all of which will disappear
in a short time (usually 7-10 days).
Skin darkening (hyperpigmentation)
or skin lightening (hypopigmentation) could occur in the treated areas and persist from 3-6 months.
Some vascular lesions may not go away
completely, despite the best efforts of your doctor.
Your physician will be happy to tell
you more about your treatment and what you can expect during your consultation.
Results
Unlike other methods of treatment, these lasers have greatly reduced the risk of scarring and change in skin texture.
Following the treatment, however, there will be some temporary discoloration of the skin lasting from seven to 10 days.
Some patients also may experience pigment changes in the area treated. These light or dark spots usually fade with time.
Insurance Coverage
The treatment of vascular lesions,
birthmarks, and hemangeomas are considered to be cosmetic procedures and are not normally covered by health
insurance.
Some insurance carriers may reimburse
patients for treatment of certain skin conditions on a case by case basis.
The Doctors' Cosmetic Laser Center
will not bill your carrier for your treatment.
Evaluations and Appointments
Dermatologists trained in the use of laser therapy are available for consultation
at Dr. Al Rustom's Medical & Day Care Surgery Centre.
Evaluations and appointments can be scheduled by calling +971 (0)4 349 8800.
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