Laser Rejuvenation
What is Laser Rejuvenation?
The Versa PulseC® laser has been used for treatment of various skin conditions for over five years. It emits an intense beam of light that penetrates the skin to a depth of about 1.5-mm (1/20th of an inch). This heats the targeted tissue instantaneously and so precisely that normal surrounding tissue is hardly affected. This laser is used to eradicate spider veins, lighten or remove age spots, freckles, and sun damage on face, hands, and body.
Many patients arrive at the office complaining of a combination of unwanted blood vessels, facial pigment, and textural irregularities. In one to five treatments the majority of unwanted blood vessels and facial pigment can be removed utilizing the Versa PulseC® laser.
The procedure is simple and well tolerated without anesthetic. First, unwanted blood vessels are treated. The laser is then used to treat the pigmented areas. Lastly, utilizing a wavelength of light that stimulates a fibroblastic collagen repair response, textural irregularities are treated. Each treatment takes 10 to 30 minutes to perform.
What are the advantages of Laser Rejuvenation?
You can have glowing skin with a smoother texture and more youthful appearance with little or virtually no down time from work or play.
How do I prepare for treatment?
Prior to your appointment all make-up or creams must be removed. Men will be asked to shave on the day of treatment, before their arrival at the office. If any herpetic lesions or bacterial infections are noted on the day of the procedure the treatment will be cancelled until the condition has been treated and completely healed. Please avoid tanning or sunburns before a scheduled treatment. During the procedure eye shields/goggles are worn to protect the eyes. A soothing gel will be placed on the skin, which will help reduce any discomfort. After the procedure you may be asked to ice the area, and will be given additional post- treatment instructions.
How many treatments will I need for the best results?
One to five treatments, one to two months apart.
Are there any side effects?
Yes. Most side effects generally are mild and of short duration. You may experience slight discomfort during the actual treatment. Redness appears immediately following treatment, lasting less than 24 hours in most people. Swelling is usually mild, but when large numbers of blood vessels are treated, swelling can be marked and last up to three days. Most people can return to work the same or the following day. Crusts forming where brown spots have been treated take 4-7days to peel off. Make up may be worn to conceal these. Mild blistering and bruising is possible, but in our experience occurs in less than 1% and usually heals very quickly. Post treatment pigmentation has been noted on occasion but is highly treatable and fortunately very rare.
How do I get started?
Make an appointment for a consultation with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Your doctor will determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. Other laser services offered: hair removal, age & brown spots, broken blood vessels, tattoo removal and birthmark removal.
Dermatology Department:
Peggy N. Albrecht, M.D.
James H. Beckett, M.D.
Leonard R. Moore, M.D.
2025 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, (831) 458-5548
Plastic Surgery Department:
Suzanne M. Kerley, M.D.
2911 Chanticleer Ave
Santa Cruz, (831) 477-2350
Facial Plastic Surgery:
Alexis G. Lane, M.D.
2025 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, (831) 458-5640