What is Botox?

Botox, botulinum type A, is a purified protein substance produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. There are seven types of botulinum toxins, A-G.

How does it Work?

Botulinum toxin A weakens or paralyzes striated muscles by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine ( a neurotransmitter) at the neuromuscular junction. Once the treated muscles are weakened, the overlying skin flattens, minimizing dynamic facial skin creases. Onset of the paralytic effect typically occurs 2 – 3 days after injection and lasts between 3 – 6 months. Repeat injections will be required to maintain the paralytic effect.

What is it used to Treat?

Botox was FDA approved in April, 2002, for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles (frown lines between the eyebrows). Other FDA approved uses include the treatment of blepharospasm, strabismus, and cervical dystonia. It has also been used for many off-label indications (treatments that have been widely used, however, are not yet FDA approved), including the cosmetic treatment of lateral periocular rhytides (crow’s feet), brow ptosis (droop), central forehead wrinkles, perioral lipstick lines, and platysmal bands in the neck.   Other off-label uses include the treatment of hyperhidrosis, headache, back pain, and limb spasticity.

What are the potential side effects?

The most common side effects include pain and bruising at the injection site. Other less common side effects include headache, blepharoptosis (eyelid droop), brow ptosis (brow droop), lack of expressivity, diplopia (double vision), ectropion (outward turning of the eyelids), temporary dysphagia (difficulty swallowing, can be seen after treatment of platysmal bands), an asymmetric smile, drooling, a Bell’s palsy – type appearance, flu-like symptoms, nausea, and rashes at sites distant from injection sites. Rare case reports have been described of patients who developed chronic, severe headaches lasting several months, as well as a prolonged chronic fatigue-like syndrome. There is potential for patients to develop resistance to Botox, however, this is very rare and has only been seen in patients treated with very high doses for conditions such as cervical dystonia.

Who shouldn’t use botox?

Pregnant or nursing women, individuals with neuromuscular disorders such as Myasthenia Gravis or Eaton-Lambert Syndrome, and people taking the following medications: aminoglycoside antibiotics, penicillamine, quinine, and calcium channel blockers (a blood pressure medication).

What is KYBELLA?

Kybella is a new treatment aimed at reducing submental fullness (double chin). It is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate –to-severe double chins. Dr. Bickle is one of the first doctors in southern California to offer this treatment, and has the added benefit of working with Dr. Adam Rotunda, one of the co-creators of this product.

Kybella is identical to deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the absorption and break down of fat. When injected, Kybella disrupts the fat cell membrane and destroying the cell. The destroyed cells can no longer store fat and the fat gets dissolved.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

People with submental fat or double chins, who do not wish to undergo a surgical option such as liposuction or a facelift.

What causes submental fullness?

Submental fullness, or a double chin, is due to again, genetics, and / or weight gain. It often does not respond to diet and exercise, therefore making it challenging for people to address on their own. Until now, surgery (liposuction and facelifts) were the only treatment option.

What does the procedure entail?

At the time of your procedure, the area to be treated will be anesthetized locally. This can be achieved with topical numbing cream or local injections, or a combination of both. A series of small injections will be performed into the area to be treated. The amount of Kybella needed to treat an area varies from person to person, and can be determined at the time of your consultation. Most people will use between 1-2 vials per treatment session.   There will be some temporary burning and stinging, along with swelling.

What is the recovery process?

The treated area will stay swollen for 1-2 weeks, and will likely be sensitive to touch during that time period as well. During this time, you may also feel small lumpy areas in the fat that was treated – this is a normal part of the body’s process to clear the destroyed fat cells.

When will I see Results?

Results can be seen within weeks of the first treatment as the body naturally processes and removes the destroyed fat cells. Most people, however, require between 2-4 treatment sessions before their ideal results are achieved. Up to 6 sessions can be done if necessary. Each session should be schedule at least 1 month apart. Other non-invasive treatments, such as Radiofrequency ( the Exilis) or ultrasound (Ultherapy) can be combined in conjunction with Kybella to enhance results and tighten skin.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects include pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, redness and hardening of the treated areas. These side effects are all temporary. Less commonly, there are more serious side effects, including difficulty swallowing and nerve injury that may result in temporary weakness of facial muscles or an uneven smile.   These side effects are temporary as well.

who should not have kybella injections?

People with a history of difficulty swallowing, bleeding abnormalities, and women who are pregnant or nursing should not undergo treatment with Kybella.

Before & After
 

Injectibles

What is KYBELLA?

Kybella is a new treatment aimed at reducing submental fullness (double chin). It is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate –to-severe double chins. Dr. Bickle is one of the first doctors in southern California to offer this treatment, and has the added benefit of working with Dr. Adam Rotunda, one of the co-creators of this product.

Kybella is identical to deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the absorption and break down of fat. When injected, Kybella disrupts the fat cell membrane and destroying the cell. The destroyed cells can no longer store fat and the fat gets dissolved.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

People with submental fat or double chins, who do not wish to undergo a surgical option such as liposuction or a facelift.

What causes submental fullness?

Submental fullness, or a double chin, is due to again, genetics, and / or weight gain. It often does not respond to diet and exercise, therefore making it challenging for people to address on their own. Until now, surgery (liposuction and facelifts) were the only treatment option.

What does the procedure entail?

At the time of your procedure, the area to be treated will be anesthetized locally. This can be achieved with topical numbing cream or local injections, or a combination of both. A series of small injections will be performed into the area to be treated. The amount of Kybella needed to treat an area varies from person to person, and can be determined at the time of your consultation. Most people will use between 1-2 vials per treatment session.   There will be some temporary burning and stinging, along with swelling.

What is the recovery process?

The treated area will stay swollen for 1-2 weeks, and will likely be sensitive to touch during that time period as well. During this time, you may also feel small lumpy areas in the fat that was treated – this is a normal part of the body’s process to clear the destroyed fat cells.

When will I see Results?

Results can be seen within weeks of the first treatment as the body naturally processes and removes the destroyed fat cells. Most people, however, require between 2-4 treatment sessions before their ideal results are achieved. Up to 6 sessions can be done if necessary. Each session should be schedule at least 1 month apart. Other non-invasive treatments, such as Radiofrequency ( the Exilis) or ultrasound (Ultherapy) can be combined in conjunction with Kybella to enhance results and tighten skin.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects include pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, redness and hardening of the treated areas. These side effects are all temporary. Less commonly, there are more serious side effects, including difficulty swallowing and nerve injury that may result in temporary weakness of facial muscles or an uneven smile.   These side effects are temporary as well.

who should not have kybella injections?

People with a history of difficulty swallowing, bleeding abnormalities, and women who are pregnant or nursing should not undergo treatment with Kybella.

Before & After
 

Cosmetic Dermatology

Injectibles

Botox
Kybella
Hyaluronic acid based fillers:
  • Juvederm
  • Restylane
  • Voluma
  • Volbella
  • Boletero
Sculptra

Lasers & Light

Radiofrequency

Chemical Peels

Our Peels:
  • Glycolic Acid 70%
  • Salicylic Acid 20%
  • Trichloracetic Acid (TCA) (20, 35%)
  • Combination Peels

Which one is right for you?

There’s a lot of options to choose from out there when considering what cosmetic treatments are best for you, and we have curated our favorite ones for our patients. We recommend coming in for a consultation to determine which treatments will best help you achieve your skin care goals.

Botox

What is Botox?

Botox, botulinum type A, is a purified protein substance produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. There are seven types of botulinum toxins, A-G.

How does it Work?

Botulinum toxin A weakens or paralyzes striated muscles by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine ( a neurotransmitter) at the neuromuscular junction. Once the treated muscles are weakened, the overlying skin flattens, minimizing dynamic facial skin creases. Onset of the paralytic effect typically occurs 2 – 3 days after injection and lasts between 3 – 6 months. Repeat injections will be required to maintain the paralytic effect.

What is it used to Treat?

Botox was FDA approved in April, 2002, for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles (frown lines between the eyebrows). Other FDA approved uses include the treatment of blepharospasm, strabismus, and cervical dystonia. It has also been used for many off-label indications (treatments that have been widely used, however, are not yet FDA approved), including the cosmetic treatment of lateral periocular rhytides (crow’s feet), brow ptosis (droop), central forehead wrinkles, perioral lipstick lines, and platysmal bands in the neck.   Other off-label uses include the treatment of hyperhidrosis, headache, back pain, and limb spasticity.

What are the potential side effects?

The most common side effects include pain and bruising at the injection site. Other less common side effects include headache, blepharoptosis (eyelid droop), brow ptosis (brow droop), lack of expressivity, diplopia (double vision), ectropion (outward turning of the eyelids), temporary dysphagia (difficulty swallowing, can be seen after treatment of platysmal bands), an asymmetric smile, drooling, a Bell’s palsy – type appearance, flu-like symptoms, nausea, and rashes at sites distant from injection sites. Rare case reports have been described of patients who developed chronic, severe headaches lasting several months, as well as a prolonged chronic fatigue-like syndrome. There is potential for patients to develop resistance to Botox, however, this is very rare and has only been seen in patients treated with very high doses for conditions such as cervical dystonia.

Who shouldn’t use botox?

Pregnant or nursing women, individuals with neuromuscular disorders such as Myasthenia Gravis or Eaton-Lambert Syndrome, and people taking the following medications: aminoglycoside antibiotics, penicillamine, quinine, and calcium channel blockers (a blood pressure medication).

Profound

What is the Profound Treatment?

The Profound treatment is a nonsurgical alternative for treating facial wrinkles and the appearance of cellulite. It combines radiofrequency (RF) energy with ultrafine needles (microneedles) to renew your skin from within.1-7 Healthcare providers across the globe rely on the Profound treatment to provide lasting wrinkle and/or cellulite reduction for their patients.

What does the Profound system Treat?

It delivers precise temperatures to the deep layers of your skin, exactly where energy delivery is most beneficial. This energy breaks down tissue in order to trigger your body’s natural healing process,2,3,8 stimulating your body to naturally create new elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid to revitalize the skin and build new, healthy tissue.

How is the Profound treatment different from other treatments for wrinkles and cellulite?

This is the only RF injectable energy treatment that stimulates and triggers the creation of new elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid—the 3 skin fundamentals for smooth, youthful-looking skin. The Profound treatment is what helps patients get the snap back to their aging skin.

What role do collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid play in creating smooth, youthful-looking skin?

These 3 skin fundamentals are important in keeping our skin strong, elastic, and flexible. When their levels drop, facial wrinkles may appear.9-12 Collagen is the glue that holds our skin together. Elastin helps skin to return to its original position when it is poked or pinched. Hyaluronic acid is a gel-like liquid that improves skin hydration, stimulates the production of collagen, and helps skin to maintain its elasticity.

What should I expect from a Profound treatment?

Prior to treatment, you will have a personalized Profound treatment consultation to determine your goals and to establish the target area for treatment. On the day of your treatment, a local anesthetic may be applied to help you manage comfort.We’ll administer treatment with the Profound system handpiece, which will deliver pulses of energy to the targeted areas.

Fillers

HYALURONIC ACID BASED FILLERS

(Juvederm, Voluma, Volbella, Restylane, Belotero) Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in our connective tissue in the skin and is also found in our joints, spinal fluid, and the aqueous humor of the eye. As we age, hyaluronic acid in our skin diminishes. Because hyaluronic acid fillers are based on a natural product in our bodies, it integrates smoothly into the skin, with minimal side effects. HA’s bind water, which allows the product to retain its volume over time, giving natural, long lasting results.  Over time, it is broken down and absorbed by our bodies, just like the hyaluronic acid in our tissues.   Hyaluronic acid fillers are used to treat facial folds and wrinkles, restore facial volume, lip augmentation, and facial reshaping.   There are many different types of hyaluronic acid fillers, and it is best to consult with your physician to determine which HA is most appropriate for you.   Common side effects include bruising and swelling, which may last up to a week, but typically resolve between 1-3 days. Results last between 6-12 months, depending on the particular filler that is used.

SCULPTRA

Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid) is an FDA approved biocompatible, biodegradable material that has been used for many applications, including dissolvable stitches.   When injected into the skin for cosmetic purposes, Sculptra helps to restore volume through stimulation of new collagen production. Sculptra gives natural, long lasting results (1 – 2 years or longer), however, it may take several sessions, spaced approximately 6-8 weeks apart to get the desired results.

Kybella

What is KYBELLA?

Kybella is a new treatment aimed at reducing submental fullness (double chin). It is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate –to-severe double chins. Dr. Bickle is one of the first doctors in southern California to offer this treatment, and has the added benefit of working with Dr. Adam Rotunda, one of the co-creators of this product.

Kybella is identical to deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the absorption and break down of fat. When injected, Kybella disrupts the fat cell membrane and destroying the cell. The destroyed cells can no longer store fat and the fat gets dissolved.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

People with submental fat or double chins, who do not wish to undergo a surgical option such as liposuction or a facelift.

What causes submental fullness?

Submental fullness, or a double chin, is due to again, genetics, and / or weight gain. It often does not respond to diet and exercise, therefore making it challenging for people to address on their own. Until now, surgery (liposuction and facelifts) were the only treatment option.

What does the procedure entail?

At the time of your procedure, the area to be treated will be anesthetized locally. This can be achieved with topical numbing cream or local injections, or a combination of both. A series of small injections will be performed into the area to be treated. The amount of Kybella needed to treat an area varies from person to person, and can be determined at the time of your consultation. Most people will use between 1-2 vials per treatment session.   There will be some temporary burning and stinging, along with swelling.

What is the recovery process?

The treated area will stay swollen for 1-2 weeks, and will likely be sensitive to touch during that time period as well. During this time, you may also feel small lumpy areas in the fat that was treated – this is a normal part of the body’s process to clear the destroyed fat cells.

When will I see Results?

Results can be seen within weeks of the first treatment as the body naturally processes and removes the destroyed fat cells. Most people, however, require between 2-4 treatment sessions before their ideal results are achieved. Up to 6 sessions can be done if necessary. Each session should be schedule at least 1 month apart. Other non-invasive treatments, such as Radiofrequency ( the Exilis) or ultrasound (Ultherapy) can be combined in conjunction with Kybella to enhance results and tighten skin.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effects include pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, redness and hardening of the treated areas. These side effects are all temporary. Less commonly, there are more serious side effects, including difficulty swallowing and nerve injury that may result in temporary weakness of facial muscles or an uneven smile.   These side effects are temporary as well.

who should not have kybella injections?

People with a history of difficulty swallowing, bleeding abnormalities, and women who are pregnant or nursing should not undergo treatment with Kybella.

Before & After
 

Microneedling

WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?

Microneedling is the use of multiple very small needles in a special, motorized device to cause tiny areas of injury to the skin, which in turn helps to stimulate the growth of new collagen and elastin. This helps to create a more youthful, refreshed appearance to your skin, improving skin texture and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. The results are subtle, natural, and created over time as the skin repairs itself. This treatment may also be followed by the application of PRP (platelet rich plasma) to the skin to help speed healing and enhance results.

WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING USED TO TREAT?

Microneedling is used to minimize wrinkles, reduces pore size, tighten skin, and improves scars. Vertical lip lines, crow’s feet, stretch marks, and scars from acne, trauma, and surgery can all be treated with this technique. Treating scars with microneedling generally takes 3-5 treatments at monthly intervals to see optimal results.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?

Microneedling can be performed as a one-time treatment, however, multiple treatments may be recommended depending on the desired results.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME?

Mild swelling and redness, similar to that seen with sunburn, will be present for 2-3 days. Results will begin to show as new collagen is formed approximately 3-4 weeks after the procedure.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF MICRONEEDLING?

This procedure is safe for all skin types, and is safe to use on all areas of the body. It increases the penetration and thus the effectiveness of skin care products, and stimulates circulation as well as production of collagen and elastin. It is very cost effective compared to other skin resurfacing procedures.

WHO SHOULD NOT HAVE MICRONEEDLING?
  • Patients who have taken Accutane within the last 3 months.
  • Patient with open cuts, wounds or abrasions in the areas to be treated.
  • An active skin infection, inflammatory condition, or active herpes simplex in the area to be treated.

 

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

PRP is the concentration of platelets and growth factors found in the blood. It is obtained by drawing the patient’s blood and spinning it down in a centrifuge to separate the red cells from the clear platelet-rich plasma. PRP can be rubbed into the skin after resurfacing procedures such as microneedling, ablative and non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing to enhance results and speed healing. It can also be injected into the skin to stimulate collagen production. It has also been shown to promote new hair growth, thicken thinning hair, and promote overall health of the scalp and hair. It can be applied to thinning hair via injections or after microneedling to the affected areas.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the injection of FDA approved solutions to irritate and destroy unwanted spider and varicose veins, shifting blood flow to other healthy veins. It is often used in combination with laser therapy and typically takes several treatments to achieve best results.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels have been used to rejuvenate skin for many years. Wrinkles, uneven skin coloration, sunspots and overall complexion can be improved with chemical peels.   There are different types of peels that achieve different depths of penetration into the skin, and include superficial, medium, and deep chemical peels. Chemical peels consist of application of various medical acids (common ones include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloracetic acid) to remove damaged layers of skin, leaving a refreshed, brighter appearance to the skin. They are most commonly performed on the face, but can be used to treat other areas including the neck, chest, back, shoulders, arms, legs, and hands as well. It is best to schedule a consultation to discuss which chemical peel is most appropriate for your skin type and the conditions you wish to address.

CO2RE

What is CO2RE?

The CO2RE laser is a fractional CO2 resurfacing laser with the capability to do conventional CO2 resurfacing as well. As we age and expose our skin to the sun, our skin will show signs of wear and tear, and may appear wrinkled and blotchy. Laser skin resurfacing can diminish the signs of this damage including wrinkling, sun damage, acne scars, and blotchiness, while evening out skin tone and texture. Fractionated CO2 delivery systems can selectively treat the skin without the prolonged recovery of traditional CO2 resurfacing.

What can you expect from your fractional CO2 treatment?

improvement in fine lines and wrinkles

smooth acne and other scars

evens out skin tone

reduces skin blotchiness

can be used to treat some skin cancers

CO2RE INTIMA

What is CO2RE INTIMA?

The CO2RE Intima is a laser treatment aimed at enhancing a woman’s intimate wellness. Childbirth and again take a toll on women’s bodies, and can result in loss of vaginal tone. The collagen fibers in the vaginal wall, much like the collagen fibers in our skin, can stretch and lose tissue tone and elasticity. Loose vaginal tone can result in leaking urine when sneezing or coughing. Another component of the aging process is decreased production of estrogen, which leads to vaginal dryness. This can result in itching, burning, and painful intercourse. The CO2RE Intima laser treatment delivers gentle laser energy to the vaginal wall that stimulates a healing response that enhances moisture levels in the vaginal canal. It also results in remodeling of tissue fibers, thereby restoring flexibility and shape. The procedure delivers immediate and long lasting relief in a virtually painless, non-surgical, proven treatment. A series of 3 treatments are typically done to achieve optimal results. This is often followed by once yearly treatment to maintain symptom relief.

Clear and Brilliant

What is Clear and Brilliant?

Clear and Brilliant is a new category of laser treatments for patients who would like an in-office treatment with little to no recovery that refreshes the skin, providing a more youthful appearance while helping prevent the signs of premature aging. It is recommended for those who are starting to show the early signs of aging, such as large pores, fine lines and uneven skin tone, and for those patients wanting to get an early start on the skin rejuvenation process. It is best suited for patients who are not yet in need of more aggressive skin resurfacing procedures, or for patients who would like to maintain the results of a more aggressive resurfacing. This treatment will boost the effectiveness of topical medications applied to the skin as well, thus enhancing patient’s at-home skin care regimen.  It gently refreshes your skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.

How does Clear + Brilliant work?

Clear and Brilliant is a gentle laser that refreshes your skin from the inside out. The laser energy creates millions of microscopic treatment zones in the upper layers of the skin, replacing damaged skin with healthy, younger looking tissue.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments is tailored to your concerns and skincare desires. In recent studies, consumers reported visible improvements after 4-6 treatments, though many patients choose to have routine treatments as part of their overall skin care regimen. Your skin care provider will discuss a personalized treatment regimen with you.

Who can benefit from Clear + Brilliant treatments?

Clear + Brilliant is a beneficial treatment for women and men of all ages and skin types who want to be proactive in their skin care- addressing the early signs of aging or maintaining the look of their skin.

What kind of results can one expect?

The skin will feel softer and have improved tone, texture and radiance. Other benefits of the treatment may include:

Reduces fine lines

smooth acne and other scars

tightens pores

minimizes scars

Evens out skin tone (improves blotchiness)

When do the results appear and how long do they last?

The results of treatment are both immediate and progressive. A few days after the treatment, the skin will start to feel softer, look brighter and show more even tone. Results can last for months depending on age, skin condition and how well the skin is protected from the sun.

How do I know Clear + Brilliant is right for me at my age?

No matter how old you are, sun exposure, environmental conditions and lifestyle can contribute to lackluster skin. Whether you want to extend the younger look of your skin or address these early signs of aging, Clear + Brilliant can help.

Can I get Clear + Brilliant treatments if I’ve already had other procedures?

Clear + Brilliant treatment is often used in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures like Botox, fillers, microneedling, radiofrequency devices and other lasers. Combination treatments are a great way to enhance clinical effect and save time.

I have had corrective laser treatments, is Clear + Brilliant right for me too?

Clear + Brilliant is a great way to protect the investment you have made in your skin, maintaining, extending and helping to continually improve upon the results already accomplished.

What to expect on the day of your procedure:

On the day of your procedure, most patients will numb with a topical anesthetic for approximately 30 minutes. The procedure itself takes between 20-40 minutes, depending on the areas to be treated. Most often the face, or face, neck and chest are treated. Hands, arms and legs are also areas that can be treated. You may experience a temporary warm or stinging sensation to the skin, and temporary redness and swelling lasting from a few hours up to a day. While this procedure does not carry the same risks as a traditional fractionated resurfacing, strict daily photoprotection after the procedure is still recommended.   Over the next few days, your skin will have a “sandpaper-like” texture, indicative of the “micropeeling” response.

Skin care after the procedure:

Most skin care routines can be resumed shortly after treatment, but Dr. Bickle will help you to determine the most appropriate skin care regimen based on your individual skin care needs. For best results, it is generally recommended that Clear and Brilliant be performed in a series of 6 monthly treatments, with individual treatments to maintain thereafter. It can also be combined with other procedures such as botox, fillers, and microneedling to enhance results.

To find out which resurfacing laser treatment is best for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bickle for evaluation.

Pelo Laser Hair Removal

What is Pelo Laser Hair Removal?

The Clear and Brilliant pelo laser is a new hair removal system that combines linear scanning technology with a powerful skin cooling device, allowing for a fast and effective treatment with minimal pain. This diode laser scans the area to be treated, selectively heating the hair follicles without causing injury to the surrounding skin. It is safe and effective for use on all skin types.   Generally, 5-6 treatments are recommended, spaced between 6-8 weeks apart.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

What is PDT?

Photodynamic Therapy consists of the use of a photosensitive drug (most often Levulinic Acid) applied topically to the skin, followed by the use of a laser or light source, most often blue and red LED lights or a pulsed dye laser (V-beam), to activate the topical medication.   Once activated, the drug attacks the abnormal cells, including pre-cancerous cells and sun-damaged skin cells. This results in improved skin tone, smoother texture, and reduced appearance of pores.

What is PDT used to treat?

pre-cancers (actinic keratoses)

signs of sun damage

inflammatory acne and rosacea

What to expect with your treatment:

Depending on your particular skin condition, your doctor will determine how long the topical solution needs to sit on the skin prior to your laser or light therapy, usually a couple of hours. Your skin will then be exposed to whatever light source you and your doctor have decided upon. You will likely experience a burning sensation during the treatment. After your treatment, while the PDT drug is still active, you MUST AVOID SUN EXPOSURE for two days. Redness and peeling can be expected for several days following treatment, however, it may be more or less depending upon the severity of sun damage and amount of pre-cancerous lesions.

The Vbeam Pefecta

The Vbeam Perfecta uses Pulsed Dye Laser technology to treat primarily vascular abnormalities of the skin. It can also be used to treat solar lentigines, also known as sunspots. Common vascular birthmarks include hemangiomas and port wine stains, both of which are due to abnormal development of blood vessels. Hemangiomas occur in one of every 10 infants, and tend to develop rapidly early in life. However, over the first 5 years of life, 50% of these go away on their own. Some, however, do persist and require medical and laser intervention. Port Wine stains are less common, affecting approximately 3-5 out of every 1,000 children born in North America. 90% of these are located on the head and neck, and typical appear as pink patches on the skin, which, in time will become a red or purple color, and may become thickened with time. They will not spontaneously resolve and do require laser intervention should treatment be desired. The V beam laser safely and effectively treats the above mentioned birthmarks, in individuals of all ages, including infants. Other vascular abnormalities that are successfully treated by the V-beam include the following:

Acne, psoriasis, and warts can also benefit from treatment with this laser.

cherry angiomas: the small red dots many of us develop on our skin, usually arising in our 30s

telangiectasias: dilated blood vessels often seen around our nose and cheeks

poikiloderma of Civatte: reddish discoloration of the chest due primarily to sun damage

leg veins: the V beam is often used in combination with sclerotherapy to best treat unwanted spider and varicose veins in the legs.

scars: redness in scars can be greatly diminished with several treatments using this laser

rosacea: the redness on cheeks and nose, along with the dilated blood vessels often seen in rosacea can be treated effective with the V beam.