Skin Resurfacing with V-Beam Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment

What is a Vbeam Pulsed Dye Laser?

Although dermatologists have used lasers for decades to treat a variety of skin conditions, Vbeam pulsed dye lasers have more recently become the favored procedure for treating skin marks, scars and benign vascular lesions from a patient's face, neck and hands. V-Beam technology allows for an ultra-long pulse duration for superior efficacy with lowered risk. Pulse dye lasers allow the skin to remain cool and supple while unwanted redness, scarring or pigmented stains are more accurately removed.

How Does it Work?

Intense but gentle burst of light are delivered by a Vbeam laser device to specifically targeted areas of the patient's skin. This effective technology maximizes patient comfort and is the only pulse-dye laser that uses a dynamic cooling device to deliver a burst of cryogen to cool the area of skin being treated. The pulse of light is then absorbed by blood vessels or pigmented areas in the dermal layer of the skin.

Vbeam pulsed dye laser can be used for skin rejuvenation when treating marks or scars as well as benign vascular lesions such as port wine stains, rosacea, poikiloderma, telangiectasias, erythema, hemangiomas and age spots (also called liver spots). Due to the device's superior cooling element, typically there is less pain, less bruising, a lowered risk of post-operative purpura, and reduced crusting or scab formation.

*These results were obtained after multiple treatments. Clinical results may vary depending on individual factors, including medical history, skin type, age, patient compliance with Pre/Post-Care Treatment Instructions, and individual response to treatment.

What Can a Pulsed-Dye Laser Do For Me?

Most patients who opt for laser treatments do so to improve the appearance of their skin without the downtime and risks associated with cosmetic surgery. After a thorough examination, your physician or physician assistant will recommend a treatment plan that meets your dermatologic goals. Factors that will help determine whether Vbeam pulsed dye treatments are best suited for removing or minimizing your skin conditions include the location of the skin lesions as well as the age, color and type.

Are Vbeam Pulsed Dye Treatments Safe?

Yes, there is very little risk associated with Vbeam pulsed dye laser treatments. For more than three decades, PDL has been used as a pediatric procedure to treat port wine stain birthmarks in infants and young children. However, it is important to avoid excess sun exposure before, during and immediately following the corrective process. In fact, your physician may recommend that you use a sunscreen (SPF 30) while receiving pulsed dye laser treatments as well as while the treated areas heal.

Do Pulsed-Dye Laser Treatments Hurt?

Specific anesthetics are not required but your physician or physician assistant may choose to use a numbing agent. There is a tingling or warming sensation that some patients report during treatment. Others say it feels like a rubber band snapped against the skin of the area being treated. Generally speaking, the quick burst of cryogen that cools the affected area of skin helps to reduce or eliminate the sensation of pain and discomfort.

How Long Will It Take?

Each patient is unique in both their skin condition as well as their physical makeup. When your treatment begins, the Vbeam laser will be calibrated and parameters set for the type, size and depth of blood vessels or pigmented areas being treated. Treatments typically take only a few minutes for each area or condition being treated. Some patients experience minor swelling and redness that usually subsides in a few hours.

Will I Need Follow-Up Treatments?

Based on the type, age and location of the damaged skin, some patients will notice improvements in his or her skin's appearance and tightness right away. However, the number of variables and conditions can vary greatly for one patient to the next. Your physician or physician assistant will talk to you about your specific goals, skin conditions and cosmetic expectations prior to your first treatment; but many patients do opt for multiple treatments.

What Should I Do During Recovery?

Following Vbeam pulsed dye laser treatments, mild swelling and skin redness in the targeted areas are common. However, patients generally do not have to miss work to recover, so downtime is minimal. It is very important to follow the post-operative instructions furnished by your physician or healthcare provider. Cold compresses may be used immediately following a treatment to reduce puffiness and to ease any discomfort. The permanency of your treatment regimen will depend in part on your ongoing sun exposure and daily skin care.

What Patients Are Saying*

I was nervous during my first treatment because I was not sure what to expect. It was over before I knew it, the discomfort was minimal and the results have been great!

I would refer one of my friends to have it done.

*Provided by Candela Corporation.

How Do I Get Started?

To learn how this treatment can specifically help you, call us today at 800-827-SKIN (7546) to set up your consultation. Fees for Vbeam pulsed dye laser treatments may vary based on the areas being treated and number of treatments required. Preferable prices are usually available for multiple treatments and will be given to you during your consultation with one of our providers. Although most insurance carriers do not reimburse for cosmetic procedures, treatments for disfiguring birthmarks, such as port wine stains, may be covered. Our staff will work with you to determine how any insurance coverage may be applied.



— Debby R


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