Frequently Asked Questions: Skin Defects


Does laser treatment work for everyone ?

Laser skin surgery offers solutions for a wide variety of skin problems, and in many cases, solutions that did not exist before laser technology. However, skin laser surgery is not necessarily the best option in every circumstance. The individual patient must first be evaluated to determine treatment options.

Are consultations free ?

Different offices handle payment for consultations in different ways. It is best to ask this question when scheduling a consultation.

Does the consultation fee go towards treatment cost if I elect to have treatment ?

Again, each office operates in its own way. In some instances the consultation fee wi ll go towards the first treatment. In other cases, the consultation fee is completely separate.

Will my insurance cover treatment ?

Insurance usually covers only what is deemed medically necessary by the physician. It's best to consult a physician and to contact your insurance to confirm coverage of the laser treatment.

What is the cost ?

The cost of laser treatment varies according to the medical condition, the treatment required, and the individual physician's fees. Unlike eye laser surgery, which requires similar treatment in every case, laser skin surgery covers a wide range of conditions and treatments. We shall provide an estimate only after examination of the patient.

Does treatment hurt ?

As in any laser treatment, trauma to the skin is needed to propel change. Various conditions and treatments will cause different trauma to the skin and different levels of discomfort. It is also important to note that each individual's skin sensitivity and pain threshold will determine discomfort. Any office that performs laser skin surgery is well equipped with various types of anesthesia to alleviate patient discomfort.

Are there free studies ? Can I be a test subject ?

The best places to find free studies are university hospitals that have outpatient clinics. University physicians are often in the forefront of testing new technology and laser applications, as well as training new physicians and medical personnel. Other places to check are private practices that perform laser surgery; sometimes, these practices may b e involved with testing new lasers or conducting clinical studies. Laser companies may also be able to tell you where their own lasers might be involved in studies. LaserNews.net hopes to be a good source for this information in the future.
 

Stretch Marks

What are stretch marks ?

Stretch marks are linear marks on the skin that result from rapid growth associated with pregnancy, adolescence, weight fluctuation, and heavy exercise. Stretch marks are frequently found on the hips and abdomen, but are also seen on the arms, chest, and thighs. They are often red when they first appear, but become brown or white over time.

How can stretch marks be treated ?

Stretch marks are difficult to treat. Some lasers have been used with mixed success. The pulsed dye laser is useful if the stretch marks are still in the red phase . Other lasers and bleaching creams may help to diminish the brown color if the marks are dark. Topical tretinoin (Retin-A) cream and microdermabrasion have been shown to improve the overall appearance of str etch marks as well. Microdermabrasion is a technique that uses fine crystals to buff the top layers of the skin.

How many treatments are necessary ? What are the costs involved ?

Stretch marks require multiple treatments at two- to three-week intervals.  The cost is dependent on several factors.We shall be able to provide an estimate only after examination of the patient.
 

Sun Spots

 
What are sun spots ?

Sun spots are flat brown marks most commonly found on the face, hands and chest, and are the result of cumulative sun exposure. Sun spots may also be referred to as "liver spots" or "sun freckles."

How can sun spots be treated ?

Sun spots may fade with protection from and avoidance of the sun; topical bleaching agents are often helpful. Sun spots can also be removed with liquid nitrogen, chemical peeling, or laser treatment (with the Q-switch ruby laser, the frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser, or the alexandrite laser).

How many treatments are necessary ? What are the costs ?

These treatments are gene rally successful in one or two sessions. A patient may require multiple treatments at two- to three-week intervals.  The cost is dependent on several factors.We shall be able to provide an estimate only after examination of the patient.


What will I look like immediately after the treatment ? How long will it take to heal ?

Treatment generally results in crusting, which lasts for five to 10 days. Temporary skin discoloration may also occur.

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