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 What is a hemangioma? Hemangiomas can be small to very large sacs of unsightly red, purple or blue blood vessels. They can appear at birth or shortly thereafter, or later in life. Hemangiomas can enlarge sometimes to very alarming sizes. In certain locations large hemangiomas can interfere with proper development and function of organs. For example, an hemangioma close to the eye can prevent proper vision from developing. In other areas, they are simply large and unsightly. They may resemble a strawberry, and are often called strawberry hemangiomas. Usually these kind of hemangiomas will go away by themselves in anywhere from several to ten or twelve years. In the meantime, they can cause some maturation damage, and be more than just a cosmetic concern. Older persons often grow many small hemangiomas, ranging in size from a matchhead to a pea. While harmless, they may cause cosmetic discomfort. Also, blood vessel formations may grow between them, and can be of serious cosmetic concern, as well as interfere with normal functioning. These blood sacs are abnormal. They are not necessary for any essential body function. Destroying them results in a more positive self-identity, and may prevent damage to other structures.
What causes hemangiomas? The cause is unknown. Strawberry hemangiomas and other bulky hemangiomas can be thought of as a kind of birthmark. The smaller cherry angiomas are associated with aging. How are hemangiomas treated? Previous treatments have included painful liquid nitrogen or surgical removal, both of which can leave unsightly scars. For extensive hemangiomas, high dose cortisone by mouth may affect them more quickly, but there are major side effects associated with cortisone therapy. X-ray has been used, but this is usually avoided, since X-ray can cause cancer to occur in the treated area years later. In recent years, many of the newer laser devices have been tried, but most hemangiomas are too bulky for these devices to be effective. A revolutionary medical device called the PhotoDerm has been found to be highly effective at destroying hemangiomas using high energy light, with little to no scarring, no systemic side effects, and no long, painful healing. How does the new PhotoDerm treatment work? This remarkable new treatment zaps hemangioma with a high energy light source similar to a laser. This device is a generation beyond laser, and produces a high energy flash of light that passes harmlessly through normal light-colored or untanned skin. This light is absorbed by blood and is converted into heat which destroys the blood containing sacs which are then absorbed by the body. Lightly colored, untanned skin absorbs very little of the light and is not damaged by the treatment. The PhotoDerm does not emit harmful radiation and can be used during pregnancy. How does the PhotoDerm differ from existing laser devices? The PhotoDerm produces pulses of multi-colored light which can be delivered through delicate skin tissues of the lips or face without as much risk of scarring or blistering. The treatment with the PhotoDerm is more effective and safer than any other treatment device used to treat hemangiomia. How is the Photoderm treatment performed? Usually a test patch is done on a small area to determine the ideal treatment settings for your skin type. If the test is successful, more extensive treatment can be done. A cold gel is placed on the skin, a glass prism is placed over the gel, and an intense flash of light (a pulse) seals or disrupts the unwanted vessels. How many treatments would it take to see results? Small hemangiomas and cherry angiomas are often completely removed in one treatment. Several treatment sessions may be required to eliminate more extensive and bulky hemangiomas. Results become apparent immediately in some cases. Bulky hemangiomas may take several weeks to results to be seen. Photographs may be taken so that the progress can be closely monitored. Sometimes a temporary purple discoloration occurs which fades to show the final result. Does the PhotoDerm treatment hurt? A pulse from the PhotoDerm feels like a rubber band snapping the skin. Anesthetic cream can be used prior to the treatment if you would prefer. Most patients require no medication for the treatment. Are there any side effects or possible complications from PhotoDerm treatment? The treated areas may have temporary redness, welts, bruising or an occasional blister. In some cases the treated area may heal with temporary increased or decreased skin color. Hemangiomas may turn darker before they disappear. Scars are possible but are very rare. Can all hemangiomas be treated with the PhotoDerm? Are there any reasons not to have the treatment? Almost all hemangiomas can be successfully treated. Persons with dark or darkly tanned skin, or have a history of keloid formation or other healing problems, should not be treated with PhotoDerm. Are there any restrictions after the treatment? Normal activities may be resumed after treatment. The treated area should be protected from sunlight and tanning beds until the skin color has returned to normal. Will the hemangioma ever come back after being treated? Most hemangiomas result from a one time abnormal process, and once destroyed are unlikely to recur. On the other hand, cherry angiomas are a normal part of the aging process, and new angiomas will probably occur. New lesions can be treated as they appear. How much does the PhotoDerm treatment cost? A test patch is done first to determine the best and safest settings for your skin, at a cost of $75. Subsequent treatments are $175.00 per treatment session for the average-sized hemangioma. Very large and/or bulky hemangiomas will be more. Plan to budget for three to five treatment sessions. The cost is scheduled to increase in Oct of 1997. Treatments started before that date will be completed at the price effective at the start of treatment. Full payment is due at the time of each treatment and can be made by cash, check, Visa or Mastercard. Will my insurance plan cover it? Strawberry hemangiomas and large bulky hemangiomas that appear through the lifetime are not considered normal, and removal is not generally considered "cosmetic", so most insurance plans will cover treatment of these lesions. However, cherry angiomas are considered a normal part of the aging process, and treatment of these may be considered "cosmetic" by insurance companies. How do I get started? To determine if you are a candidate for the Photoderm treatment, you will first need to schedule an appointment. If you are a good candidate for treatment, a test patch will be done, usually during your initial consultation if you are at our main office in Council Bluffs. (If you are at one of our satellite offices, a test patch appointment will be scheduled at our main office). Call or e-mail us for more details about this groundbreaking new treatment for hemangiomas. |
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325-0980
(CB/Omaha) For more information, email us
at questions@skinspecialist.com |
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Elsewhere 1-712-325-0980