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| Facial
Rejuvenation
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. For patients that are extra sensitive to pain we
can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied 45 minutes
before coming in for the procedure.
How long after the treatment
will it take for me to see results?
Since facial rejuvenation covers a lot of different conditions,
including resolving vascular lesions, uneven skin tone, sun
damage and reduction of wrinkles and fine lines the length of
time is dependant upon the patient's specific concerns. In the
case of vascular lesions and areas of darker pigmentation results
will usually begin to appear within 1-2 weeks after the first
treatment. Some patients will notice a reduction in pore size
and a smoother skin texture within just a couple of weeks. However,
to get the most from facial rejuvenation patients should expect
the effects to be cumulative over a period of about 3-5 months
and continue to improve up to 6 months after the last treatment.
What do I look like immediately
after the procedure?
Most patients experience nothing immediately after treatment;
others might see a mild redness. For patients getting deeper
treatments with a semi-ablative laser, the redness may last
up to 5-7 days.
Am I allowed to use makeup
to cover the treated areas?
Since most facial rejuvenation procedures are non-ablative,
there is no problem in covering the treated area with makeup
immediately after treatment. For patients desiring more dramatic
facial rejuvenation procedures (ablative treatments) they may
need to go without makeup for 48-72 hours.
Are there any special skin
care procedures I must follow after receiving a facial rejuvenation
procedure?
We recommend the use of a sunscreen lotion with SPF of at least
25 and a copper peptide topical cream or L-ascorbic acid twice
a day for the treated area. Specific copper peptide creams have
been proven effective at accelerating the healing process and
aiding in the generation of collagen. Additionally, we advocate
adopting a good skin care regimen which includes the use of
at least a moisturizer that contains a UVA and UVB sunscreen
with SPF of at least 15. LaserMed also stocks a complete line
of physician based skin care products that can speed up the
healing process of laser based procedures.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 2-3 weeks apart for non-ablative laser procedures,
and 4-6 weeks apart for semi-ablative procedures where some
downtime may be experienced.
How long will the effects
of facial rejuvenation last?
Since facial rejuvenation involves resolving unwanted skin imperfections
as well as stimulating the production of your body's own collagen,
the effects are long lasting. Realize however, that the imperfections
that trouble patients most (discoloration, dryness, lines and
wrinkles, large pores, etc.) are mostly the result of sun damage
by over- exposure without proper protection. By adopting a good
skin care regimen following your facial rejuvenation treatments
the effects will be even longer lasting. Many patients continue
with touch up treatments semi-annually after their initial series
of procedures.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the desired effect the patient is looking
for and the number of different treatments which might be required
to achieve this effect. Most facial rejuvenation patients get
a series of treatments ranging from $300-$500 for non-ablative
treatments and $500-$700 for semi-ablative treatments. LaserMed
also offers affordable payment plans.
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| Laser
Acne Treatments
What causes acne?
The pores in your skin contain oil producing glands called sebaceous
glands that release oil called sebum. This production of sebum
is normal for the development of your skin. Acne occurs when
your pores become 'clogged' with sebum, dead skin cells and
bacteria combine together to clog the pore.
Often the walls of a clogged
pore can become damaged. If this occurs the bacteria and dead
skin cells work their way under live skin cells. This results
in an infection that is evident by the development of pimples
with redness. The deeper the clogged pore the worse the infection
becomes often causing a cyst.
Why does acne usually start
during puberty?
For your body to properly mature it needs to release certain
chemical (hormones) at certain times in your life. These hormones
often referred to as sex hormones (testosterone, androgen and
DHEAS) often cause your sebaceous glands to enlarge, resulting
in the over production of sebum. This process usually begins
at puberty.
How do I know if I'm a candidate
for laser acne treatments?
If you have acne you are a candidate for laser acne treatments.
These treatments represent new technology in the fight against
acne. If you've been using any photosensitive drugs (i.e. Accutane®)
you may have to wait six months before obtaining laser acne
treatments. Scheduling a free consultation with Dr. Chapman
should be your first course of action to determine how soon
you may begin treatment.
How do laser acne treatments
work?
There are several different lasers that may be used to treat
acne, but generally they work in one of two ways:
One way is for the laser to heat
the sebaceous (oil) glands in your skin (without any effect
on the outer layers of your skin) causing the sebaceous gland
to shrink in size so that it produces less oil.
Some acne is caused by bacteria
that are normally on your skin.When
these bacteria get trapped in hair follicle without oxygen it
causes inflammation. The second way lasers work is to create
oxygen within the trapped pore which destroys the bacteria causing
the inflammation.
Are the treatments painful?
Most acne laser treatments are not painful although some produce
minimum amounts of discomfort. In these cases a cream will be
rubbed on the skin before treatment which minimizes the pain.
What will I look like immediately
after the laser treatment?
Depending upon the laser treatment performed your skin will
have no visible reaction, to mild redness immediately afterwards.
Any redness usually subsides within an hour after treatment.
What areas can be treated
using laser acne treatments?
Acne usually appears on the face, neck, chest and back. Acne
laser treatments work well on all these areas.
What results can I expect
and how soon?
Results vary from patient to patient and depend upon what laser
treatment is recommended. Usually results will be noticed after
the second or third treatment. Depending upon the laser used
results will be noticeable anywhere from 3 weeks to 2 months
after beginning treatments.
How long will laser acne treatments
be effective?
The effectiveness varies
from patient to patient but generally results are long lasting.
In some cases patients will be required to undergo an occasional
follow up treatment once or twice a year.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. These lasers are designed to
control acne breakouts without damaging your skin.
How much does it cost?
The cost varies depending upon the lasers Dr. Chapman decides
to use. Treatment costs can range from $75 per treatment to
$350 per treatment. Most patients will be cleared with somewhere
between 4-8 treatments. LaserMed also offers affordable payment
plans.
Are treatments covered by
insurance?
The doctor's visit portion of the treatment will definitely
be covered by your insurance, but patients will need to check
their individual insurance plans to see if the actual laser
treatment is covered. Because this technology is new many insurance
companies have not yet defined procedure codes for reimbursement
of these treatments.
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| Facial
Acne Scar Therapy
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. For patients that are extra sensitive to pain we
can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied 45 minutes
before coming in for the procedure. Patients with more severe
acne scars who require deeper laser treatments may also be given
prescription medication to use prior to the procedure to minimize
the pain.
How long after the treatment
will it take for me to see results?
Since acne scar therapy can employ a number of different procedures
the time it takes for a patient to see results will vary. Generally,
patients will see minimal improvement after the first treatment;
however, they will notice gradual improvement with each subsequent
treatment and even up to 6 months after the last treatment.
Most patients will see a significant improvement after 5-6 treatments
spanning about a 4 month period.
Am I allowed to use makeup
to cover the treated areas?
Since most acne scar therapies are non-ablative, there is
no problem using makeup to cover the treated area immediately
after having a procedure performed. For more severe acne treatments
(semi-ablative treatments) you may need to go without makeup
for 48-72 hours.
Is there any special skin
care regimen I must follow after receiving acne scar therapy?
We recommend the use of a sunscreen lotion with SPF of at
least 25 and either a copper peptide topical cream or L-ascorbic
acid cream twice a day for the treated area. Specific copper
peptide creams have been proven effective at accelerating the
healing process and aiding in the generation of collagen. Additionally,
we advocate adopting a good skin care regimen which includes
the use of at least a moisturizer that contains a UVA and UVB
sunscreen with SPF of at least 15. Any glycolic or retin A products
should be discontinued several days pre and post laser procedures.
LaserMed Skin Clinic also stocks a complete line of physician
based skin care products that can speed up and enhance the healing
process of laser based procedures.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 2 weeks apart for non-ablative laser treatments and
4-6 weeks apart for semi-ablative laser treatments.
How long will the effects
of acne scar therapy last?
Since acne scar treatments involve remodeling the collagen network
deep in your skin to remove unwanted skin imperfections, the
effects are long lasting.
Do I stop the any acne medications
I am currently on?
No, you don't have to stop oral antibiotics or topical agents
if you still have acne lesions on top of previous scars. However,
for the semi-ablative procedures for severe acne scars you will
need to stop the use of any retinA or glycolic products during
the entire healing process.
How much does it cost?
Charges
are based upon the various treatments that the doctor may decide
to use as well as the size of the area treated. Most acne scar
patients undergo a series of 5-6 non-ablative treatments ranging
from $250-$350 per treatment, or 1-2 semi-ablative treatments
ranging from $700-$1000 per treatment. The Thermage non-ablative
RF procedure is also very effective, often requiring only 1
treatment which cost $1500. LaserMed also offers affordable
payment plans.
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| Facial
Spider Veins & Rosacea
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. For patients that are extra sensitive to pain we
can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied 45 minutes
before coming in for the procedure.
How long after the treatment
will it take for the spider veins or rosacea to clear?
It depends on the degree of the condition. Usually patients
will see the condition begin to clear within 2 hours of treatment.
Patients with rosacea and generalized redness will require multiple
sessions, however, within a couple of hours after a treatment
patients should see noticeable improvement.
Am I allowed to use makeup
to cover the treated areas?
There is no problem in covering the treated area with makeup
immediately after treatment.
Are there any special skin
care procedures I must follow after being treated for the rosacea
or removal of facial spider veins?
We recommend the use of a sunscreen with SPF of at least
25, and a copper peptide topical cream twice a day for the treated
area. Specific copper peptide creams have been proven effective
at accelerating the healing process and aiding in the generation
of collagen. Additionally, we advocate adopting a good skin
care regimen which includes the use of at least a moisturizer
that contains a UVA and UVB sunscreen with SPF of at least 15.
LaserMed also stocks a complete line of physician based skin
care products that can speed up the healing process of laser
based procedures. Some patients with active rosacea lesions
may need to continue a maintenance regimen prescribed by a LaserMed
physician.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 2-3 weeks apart.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. Studies indicate that by using
the correct laser settings the risk of scarring is less than
1%. In some cases patients might notice a slight bruising to
the treated area, but this condition will resolve itself in
5-7 days. Concurrent use of vitamin K or Arnica cream may help
resolve the bruising more quickly.
Can the treated facial veins
come back?
The ones effectively treated will not return, however due
to genetics you may be predisposed to get more veins with time,
in other areas of the face.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the size of the area to be treated
and the number of sessions required. Most facial spider veins
can be treated in 1-2 sessions and rosacea patients usually
require 3-5 sessions. Costs start at $250 per session for these
procedures. LaserMed also offers affordable payment plans.
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| Brown
Spots & SunSpots
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. For patients that are extra sensitive to pain we
can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied 45 minutes
before coming in for the procedure.
After the procedure the pigmented
lesions get darker, is this noticeable?
Immediately after the procedure the pigmented lesions might
be surrounded by mild erythema (redness) which usually dissipates
in 1-2 hours. Usually even the patient may not notice that the
lesion itself has gotten darker, but this darkening may occur
over a couple of days.
Am I allowed to use makeup
to cover the treated areas?
There is no problem with covering the area with makeup immediately
after treatment.
Are there any special skin
care procedures I must follow after being treated for the removal
of these pigmented lesions?
No, there are no special requirements. However if you are
using retinA products or glycolic acids, you should discontinue
them for several days after a procedure. As with any good skin
care regimen we recommend that you wash your face in the evening,
before bed, and apply a suitable moisturizer. Of course during
the day you should always wear a moisturizer that contains a
UVA and UVB sunscreen with SPF of at least 15 (this is true
whether or not you have any procedure performed). LaserMed also
stocks a complete line of physician based skin care products
that can speed up the healing process of laser based procedures.
Which areas can be treated?
Individual spots can be treated for isolated occurrences
or the whole area of the face, neck, chest, arms, and legs can
be treated if necessary.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. It is the recommended treatment
by the American Academy of Dermatology. The chances of scarring
or hypopigmentation are less than 2% and even these rare cases
resolve over a couple of months.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the size of the area to be treated
and the number of sessions required. Most pigmented lesions
can be treated in 2-3 sessions and costs start at $300 per session
for the whole face or the chest, but less if individual lesions
are being treated. LaserMed also offers affordable payment plans.
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| Leg
Spider Veins and Varicose Veins
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. For patients that are extra sensitive to pain we
can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied 45 minutes
before coming in for the procedure.
How long after the treatment
will it take for the spider veins or varicose veins to clear?
It depends on the degree of the condition. Spider or flat
blue veins will require 1-2 treatments with injection therapy
but may need more with laser. Usually patients will see the
veins disappear during the procedure. In many cases the treated
area will then bruise. This bruising will resolve in 5-7 days
and mild brownish pigments will settle in the treated area only
to disappear with time. Patients with larger varicose veins
will see the treated veins harden before they get softer and
disappear. These varicose veins need 1-2 treatment with injection
therapy for total resolution.
Are there any special instructions
I need to follow after treatment for leg veins?
It's a good idea to stay active and take a brisk walk on
the day of treatment. Patients are also advised not to take
a hot bath, sauna, or do any tanning, which may dilate the treated
veins making the treatment less effective. While this isn't
completely necessary it tends to help the healing process. We
also recommend patients wear compression hose on the treated
leg for a period of about 1 week after treatment. In many cases
a topical vitamin K or Arnica cream will be prescribed to help
minimize any bruising.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 1 week apart. But waiting more than 4 weeks in between
procedures is not recommended. Since the procedure is very tolerable,
it is common to treat all the spider, blue, or varicose veins
in one sitting as long as the recommended maximum dosage of
injected medication is not exceeded. Patients may need to wait
until the brownish discoloration clears enough for the follow
up treatments if a laser is to be used as well.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. Injection therapy is done
with a medication called Sotradecol (sodium tetradecyl sulfate)
that is FDA-approved for this purpose. Laser treatments use
a 1064 nm wavelength laser beam, which is also FDA-approved.
In some cases patients might notice a slight bruising to the
treated area, but this condition will resolve itself in 5-7
days.
Do these treated veins come
back?
No. However leg veins are generally due to lifestyle, genetics
or medical conditions, which will likely predispose you to have
veins appear in other areas of the legs, over time, requiring
further treatments.
What can I do to prevent these
veins?
It is hard to prevent these altogether, but regular exercise
and wearing compression stockings seem to help.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the size of the area to be treated,
the procedures performed and the number of treatment sessions
required. Most leg spider and varicose veins can be treated
in 1-4 sessions starting at $295 per treatment. LaserMed also
offers affordable payment plans.
TO FIND A VEIN
SPECIALIST NEAR YOU, VISIT VEINSonline.com
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| Botox
Is it painful?
Botox injections are given using a 30 gauge needle which minimizes
any pain. Most patients describe the feeling as similar to pin
prick and only for the duration of the injection. However, topical
anesthetic cream is available at the patient's request.
What areas can be treated
using Botox?
Botox is extremely effective removing periorbital wrinkles
(crow's feet), glabellar furrow (forehead lines), corrugator
muscle (the creases where the nose meets the forehead, frown
lines), and nasolabial folds (creases formed just outside the
nostrils that extend to the sides of the mouth).
Botox is also an effective treatment
for individuals who tend to experience excessive sweating from
the hands, soles of their feet and underarms. In these cases
Botox inhibits the function of the nerves that relay information
to the sweat glands in these areas.
What results can I expect
and how soon?
Patients usually begin seeing results within hours of the
injection, however, to appreciate the full impact of the injections
it takes about 4 days.
How long will the Botox treatments
be effective?
The effectiveness of Botox varies based upon several factors,
including injection site, injection technique, thickness of
patient's skin, size and anatomy of the affected muscles and
other genetic factors. Generally, patients getting their first
Botox treatment will find effectiveness will last approximately
3 months. As patients continue to repeat treatments the effectiveness
tends to last longer. It is not unusual for patients who have
been using Botox for a year to experience effective periods
of up to 5-6 months.
What complications can occur
by using Botox?
Since Botox removes wrinkles by paralyzing particular muscles
associated with specific facial expressions the most common
complication is a slight paralysis of an unintended muscle.
While this rarely occurs it is usually due to gravities effect
on the injected Botox where a minimal amount seeps into an unintended
muscle. Since the seepage is minimal the affected area usually
resolves itself within several weeks.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. Botox has been FDA approved
for medical reasons since the early 1980's. Its use in cosmetic
procedures, specifically to reduce wrinkles, has also been around
longer than a decade.
How much does it cost?
Costs are generally $300 per injection site. LaserMed Skin
Clinic offers packages that can reduce this cost for patients
who desire to be treated in multiple areas. LaserMed also offers
affordable payment plans.
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| Collagen
& Fillers
What is collagen?
Collagen is a naturally occurring fibrous protein found
in both humans and animals. The body produces collagen to provide
structural support primarily for the skin and blood vessels.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. The collagen
used in cosmetic procedure is actually bovine collagen.
Why would I want to use collagen
or other fillers?
When a person makes facial expressions, such as smiling,
frowning, etc., stress is placed on the natural collagen in
their skin, along with chronic sun exposure, causes it to wear
down over time. This results in the development of facial lines
and wrinkles. Collagen and other fillers can be used to replace
the collagen that has been worn away over time, thereby eliminating
the wrinkles or facial lines. Collagen and fillers can also
be used to enhance volume in lips as well.
Are the treatments painful?
All injectibles are done using a 27-30 gauge needle which
minimizes any pain. Most patients describe the feeling as similar
to a pin prick. For some sensitive patients, local anesthetic
such as lidocaine can be injected just like at your dentist's
office.
What do I look like immediately
after the injection?
Mild redness and swelling is seen immediately afterwards,
but subsides within hours. You may apply make-up once the redness
disappears. The final result is usually seen 1-3 days later
when initial swelling is gone and the injected material spreads
out evenly.
Can the collagen be injected
at the same time as Botox or other laser treatments?
Yes. Botox and other laser treatments can be done safely
and effectively at the same time.
What areas can be treated
using Collagen or other fillers?
Collagen and other fillers are commonly used for smoothing facial
lines, wrinkles and scars, most notably around the mouth, or
for enhancing the volume of the lips.
Why are some wrinkles removed
with Botox and others with Collagen or other fillers?
Collagen is used for wrinkles seen at rest without facial
movements whereas Botox is used for dynamic wrinkles seen with
facial expressions. Collagen is used in areas where paralysis
of a particular facial muscle would be detrimental. Since collagen
and other fillers do not rely upon paralysis of muscles to remove
wrinkles it is used in certain areas where Botox is a poor treatment.
For example, to use Botox to remove wrinkles above the lips
could possibly lead to paralysis of the mouth, which would be
largely undesirable. Using collagen in this area would achieve
the same result, no more wrinkles, but wouldn't affect the patient's
use of their mouth for normal activity.
What results can I expect
and how soon?
Before a patient can receive collagen injections they must
first undergo a skin test to ensure they are not allergic to
the collagen. A small test area will be injected and observed
over 4 weeks to ensure no allergic reaction. Upon completion
of the skin test, collagen can be injected and patients will
see results immediately. No skin test is necessary for hyaluronic
acid or calcium hydroxyapatite which is used just like collagen.
How long will collagen treatments
be effective?
The effectiveness of collagen varies based upon several
factors, including injection site, injection technique, thickness
of patient's skin, and other genetic factors. Generally, patients
getting their first collagen treatments will find effectiveness
will last approximately 3-4 months. Hyaluronic acids last 6-9
months and other fillers exist that last up to several years.
As patients continue to repeat treatments the effectiveness
tends to last longer.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. Collagen has been used
for cosmetic reasons since 1981. While few people have any adverse
reaction to the use of collagen or other fillers your LaserMed
Skin Clinic physician will inform you during your consultation
of any risks that might exist.
How much does it cost?
Costs are generally $400 per injection site for collagen or
hyaluronic acid but higher for longer lasting fillers. LaserMed
Skin Clinic offers packages that can reduce this cost for patients
who desire to be treated in multiple areas. LaserMed also offers
affordable payment plans.
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| Hair
Removal
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. After a procedure it is not uncommon for the skin
to feel like it has been sunburned. This feeling usually subsides
by the end of the day. For patients that are extra sensitive
to pain we can prescribe a topical anesthetic cream to be applied
45 minutes before coming in for the procedure.
How long after the treatment
will it take for the hair to disappear?
Treated hair usually grows out and falls off, unless it
is removed during the treatment. However, since only hair follicles
which were in the active growth phase will be permanently removed,
some hair will return. This is why treatments are performed
approximately every 4-6 weeks, to ensure that the new follicles
in the active growth phase are permanently disabled. It will
usually take 5-8 treatment sessions to totally clear a desired
area.
Are there any special instructions
I need to follow after a hair removal procedure?
There is really no after treatment care required. In some
cases patients will see in the treated area redness (erythema)
or welts, but this condition will quickly subside. Since many
patients indicate the treated area feels like sunburn immediately
after treatment, they might find a cooling Aloe Vera gel comforting.
Sun-tanning, however, is not recommended during the duration
of the treatment period, since increased melanin in the skin
can interfere with more effective hair removal and cause more
pain during each procedure.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 4 weeks apart for facial hair and 6 weeks for body
hair. However, since hair growth cycles vary by body area the
time between sessions may vary slightly.
Once the hair is removed will
it ever grow back?
When the hair follicle is disabled it will never regenerate
hair. However, since the follicle can only be disabled during
the hair's active growth phase, it is possible that during a
span of treatments not all hair follicles will have been through
their active phase. This may require an annual touch up session.
Can blond or white hair be
removed?
Yes, but with less effectiveness. The best candidates for
laser hair removal are patients with light complexions and dark
hair. However, modern technology offers us lasers with different
wavelengths that can treat any skin color. White and blond hair
still presents a challenge in that melanin is absent in these
hair colors. Meladyne is a substance that can be used daily
for 2 weeks prior to each procedure that does not dye the skin
or the hair, but infuses melanin into the hair follicle. This
makes it possible to remove white or blond hair to some degree.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. Until laser hair removal
technology developed electrolysis was the only permanent method
available, but electrolysis is a slow time consuming process.
It is not unusual to take years, using electrolysis, to adequately
remove the hair in a small area such as a bikini line or underarm.
Laser based hair removal has made it possible to quickly and
painlessly remove hair in all areas, including large areas such
as backs and legs.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the size of the area to be treated
and the number of treatment sessions required. Most hair removal
patients require 5-8 sessions to get all hair in the particular
area to cycle through its active growth phase. Costs start at
$125 - $500 per session depending upon the body part being treated.
LaserMed also offers affordable payment plans.
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| Tattoo
Removal
Is it painful?
By cooling the skin prior, during, and after treatment most
patients do not find this procedure painful, although in some
cases there might be a minimum amount of discomfort. The feeling
has often been described as being snapped by a rubber band on
your skin. Topical anesthetic cream is usually applied 45 minutes
to an hour prior to the procedure.
Are there any special skin
care procedures I must follow after being treated for tattoo
removal?
We recommend the frequent use of an antibiotic ointment,
such as Neosporin, to keep the treated area moist. The area
may be covered with gauze, if necessary, to keep the ointment
from getting onto clothing. The area is cleaned with a gentle
cleanser, provided by LaserMed, and dabbed dry before the antibiotic
application. Sunscreen with SPF of at least 25 is required if
the treated area will be sun exposed.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions 5-6
weeks apart. This leaves sufficient time for the skin around
the treated area to recover, so that additional treatments don't
damage the skin.
Does the process cause scarring?
Because we use the state-of-the-art technology in laser
medicine, designed for tattoo removal, scarring is rarely a
problem, particularly if the patient follows the recommended
post treatment care. In some cases it has been noted where slight
hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation might occur around the
treatment area, but this usually resolves itself over time.
Will the tattoo be removed
completely?
Usually, the tattoo can be completely removed. Factors such
as depth, density, type and color of ink play a large role in
the tattoo completely disappearing. Each treatment session we
apply the laser beam a little deeper into the tattoo. This causes
the ink to fragment a little more each session. Sometimes this
will be accompanied by a slight blistering or scabbing that
might persist for about a week, but eventually with enough treatments
and proper post treatment care the tattoo will completely disappear.
How much does it cost?
Charges are based upon the size of the area, the number
of colors involved, and the number of sessions required. Generally
a tattoo about 3 inches in diameter done in blue or black ink
will cost about $300 per session. It usually takes 5-8 treatments
or more for complete resolution. LaserMed also offers affordable
payment plans.
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| Microdermabrasion
Is it painful?
Microdermabrasion is not at all a painful process. Most patients
describe the feeling as similar to gently scratching your face.
This feeling is created by the circulation and suctioning of
the aluminum oxide crystals on your skin.
What results can I expect
and how soon?
We use microdermabrasion as a treatment by itself or often
in conjunction with laser based treatments, but patients will
generally notice their skin is slightly pink immediately after
treatment. Within a couple of hours you'll notice your skin
looks smoother taking on a polished appearance. With additional
treatments patients will notice less defined age spots or discoloration
of the skin, reduction in fine lines, and a softening of the
skin.
Will I need only one microdermabrasion
treatment?
To get the most out of microdermabrasion, patients will
usually want to get a series of treatments; however, you'll
notice some improvement with one. After completing a series
of treatments spaced out about 2 weeks apart, most patients
are able to maintain their newly smooth, healthy, youthful skin
appearance with monthly maintenance treatments.
Are there any special instructions
I need to follow after a microderabrasion procedure?
The only after treatment care which is essential is to where
a moisturizer that contains proper UVA and UVB sunscreen with
SPF of at least 25. While using such a moisturizer is considered
part of a good daily skin care regimen, it must be worn for
at least two days following microdermabrasion.
How long do I have to wait
between procedures?
In most cases patients may schedule treatment sessions as
close as 2 weeks apart. However, we generally recommend after
undergoing a series of microdermabrasion treatments, monthly
maintenance to keep your skin looking young and beautiful.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, the treatment is very safe. There is no pain and no
down time associated with microdermabrasion.
How much does it cost?
Costs are generally $100 per session for the face and vary
on other body areas depending upon the size of the area being
treated. Packages of sessions can be purchased at considerable
discounts. LaserMed also offers affordable payment plans.
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