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Telangiectasia are small, unsightly red, purple or blue blood vessels found along the surface on the face, upper chest, neck and rarely on other parts of the body. Similar veins are found on the legs called spider veins. These blood vessels are abnormal, not necessary for any essential body function. Removing them gives a more pleasing cosmetic appearance.
What causes telangiectasia? Telangiectasia are caused by anything that causes the face to flush or blush. Heredity, sun damage, rosacae (an adult form of acne), hot and spicy food, exercise, emotions, hormones, cortisone medications, and some other rare skin diseases can cause telangiectasia. How are telangiectasia treated? A revolutionary medical device called the PhotoDerm can erase unsightly telangiectasia using high energy light. How does the new PhotoDerm treatment work? This remarkable new treatment zaps telangiectasia with a high energy light source similar to a laser, but a generation beyond. It 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, destroying the vein which is 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 legs 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 telangiectasia. How is the Photoderm treatment performed? A cold gel is applied to the skin and a glass prism placed over the gel, through which is transmitted an intense flash of light (a pulse), sealing or disrupting the unwanted vessels. 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. How many treatments would it take to see results? Many telangiectasia are completely removed in one treatment. Several treatment sessions may be required to eliminate more extensive and stubborn telangiectasia. Results become apparent immediately in most cases. Photographs may be taken so that the progress can be closely monitored. Sometimes a purple discoloration occurs which must fade before the final result can be seen.
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. Veins may turn darker before they disappear. Scars are possible but occur only very rarely. Can all telangiectasias be treated with the PhotoDerm? Are there any reasons not to have the treatment? Almost all telangiectasia can be successfully treated. Persons with dark or darkly tanned skin, or have a history of forming keloids or not healing well should not be treated with the 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 telangiectasia ever come back after being treated? In most people who are susceptible to telangiectasia, new vessels will appear throughout life. Sun protection will help prevent telangiectasia which result from sun damage. Telangiectasia at the corners of the nose are the most likely to recur because of high pressure vessels feeding this area of the face. Treatment of an underlying condition, such as rosacae may prevent new telangiectasia from forming. Periodic touch-up treatment every year or so will likely be required. How much does the PhotoDerm treatment cost? The cost is $75 for a test patch. This includes treatment of a limited number of spider veins to determine the best and safest settings for your skin. Subsequent treatments are $10.00 per pulse, with $100.00 minimum per treatment session. 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? Unless inflamed veins are causing soreness or other symptoms, spider vein removal is considered cosmetic by most insurance companies, and is not a covered condition. 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 determined to be a candidate, a
test patch can usually be done during your initial
consultation, unless it is held at one of our satellite
locations. In this event, if you are a candidate, you
will need to come to Council Bluffs for your test patch.
325-0980
(CB/Omaha) For more information, email us
at questions@skinspecialist.com |
Elsewhere 1-712-325-0980