Birthmarks, rosacea

A pulse dye laser is used to remove birthmarks, rosacea and other skin blemishes. The laser targets treatment areas with intense, but gentle, yellow light. The light is absorbed by blood vessels in the skin, and those enhanced blood vessels are reabsorbed by the body as the skin heals from treatment.

Are you a candidate?

Best candidates for pulse dye laser treatment are people who are unhappy with the appearance of birthmarks or with the extreme redness associated with rosacea.

Complications, risks

The surgeon will discuss risks or complications with you. To help minimize risks, be sure to carefully follow your surgeon’s advice and instructions. Below are complications that may occur. Other side effects are rare.

• Purpura (laser bruises) that only last a few days
• Redness and swelling that lasts a few days
• Permanent scarring

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Preparing for treatment

Avoid sun exposure before and throughout treatment. If you go out in the sun, use sunblock SPF 30 or above. Other guidelines.

During treatment

You will be given safety eyewear to protect your eyes from the laser light. A small handpiece will be applied to the treatment areas to deliver laser energy. Before each laser pulse, a cooling mist is sprayed to protect and soothe the skin. Most patients feel a slight discomfort with the laser pulses, similar to a rubber band snap.

After treatment

You may experience some redness, swelling and bruising after the procedure, but this will disappear within a few days. Patients also report feeling like they are sunburned, which also goes away quickly.

Recovery

Post-treatment care varies depending on what was treated and the extent of the treatment area. Discuss this with your surgeon before treatment.