Laser treatment of
vascular malformations, haemangiomas, etc.
Laser treatment of vascular lesions, haemangiomas, etc.
Laser treatment of haemangiomas and vascular malformations
The Nd:YAG laser is recognised as the most effective method for treating unsightly blood vessels on the face and body, whilst protecting the surrounding tissues from damage. The technology is based on the principle of selective absorption of laser energy by haemoglobin, which converts it into heat. This heat coagulates and shrinks the abnormally dilated blood vessels without affecting healthy skin.
The basic principle of Nd:YAG laser treatment is the selective absorption of laser energy by haemoglobin in the blood. The laser pulse penetrates the skin, where its energy is absorbed by the haemoglobin contained in the blood vessels. This energy is converted into heat, which causes the vessels to coagulate and subsequently contract. This enables the Nd:YAG laser to effectively treat a wide range of vascular defects whilst leaving the surrounding tissues unharmed.
To minimise discomfort during the procedure and prevent overheating of healthy skin, Nd:YAG lasers are fitted with a special cooling system. This system cools the skin’s surface, thereby significantly reducing any discomfort and protecting the skin from damage caused by the laser’s high temperature.
Indications
- Dilated capillaries on the face (telangiectasia) and lower limbs: Telangiectasia are small, dilated blood vessels that often appear on the face and legs. The Nd:YAG laser successfully treats these vascular imperfections, restoring the skin’s natural appearance.
- Fine venous networks on the skin: These small venous networks, often referred to as ‘spider veins’, can be effectively removed using an Nd:YAG laser without damaging the surrounding skin.
- Cherry haemangiomas: These bright red skin lesions, known as ‘cherry’ haemangiomas, can also be treated with the Nd:YAG laser, which coagulates the blood vessels supplying the haemangioma.
- Diffuse redness on the face: The Nd:YAG laser can also be used to treat diffuse redness on the face, significantly improving the skin’s tone and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions are required for successful laser treatment of vascular lesions and haemangiomas?
The number of sessions required for laser treatment of vascular lesions and haemangiomas depends on a number of factors, such as the type, colour, shape, depth and number of affected vessels. Usually, 3–4 sessions are required, carried out at intervals of at least three weeks.
It is important for patients to be aware that not all blood vessels on the skin’s surface can be treated with the same laser, and that optimal results cannot be achieved with all types of dilated capillaries. Laser treatment of vascular lesions and haemangiomas is most effective for superficial and deeper capillaries of small to medium calibre.
For those wishing to undergo laser treatment to remove blood vessels, it is important to know that the number of sessions is crucial to achieving the desired aesthetic result. In most cases, a minimum of three sessions are required to achieve a visible effect.
What do you need to know about the recovery period?
Laser treatment for vascular defects and haemangiomas is an effective procedure, but is sometimes accompanied by some discomfort. The pain usually stems from the heating of the skin caused by the laser beam. To minimise these unpleasant sensations, modern lasers are fitted with cooling systems that significantly reduce the risk of skin burns. Although patients may experience mild soreness or tingling following laser treatment for vascular lesions and haemangiomas, the pain is usually not severe enough to require the use of painkillers.
After the procedure, temporary redness of the skin may occur, which usually subsides within 24 hours. It is important for patients to avoid exposure to the sun, even when using sun cream, as the skin remains sensitive following laser treatment for vascular lesions and haemangiomas. In rare cases, blisters or small sores may appear within a week of the procedure, which is usually due to the application of a higher energy level. These changes require further treatment to ensure a successful recovery.
How much does laser treatment for vascular lesions and haemangiomas on the face and limbs cost?
For more information on the prices of laser treatment procedures for vascular lesions and haemangiomas on the face and limbs, please see HERE, in the ‘Aesthetic Services’ section.
