Vascular Laser treatment

Vascular Laser Clinic Prince of Wales Public Hospital

About the Vascular Laser

Major advances in laser technology in the last 20 years means that a wide range of vascular skin problems and birthmarks can be safely and effectively treated. Lasers work by focusing an intense beam of light energy, which is taken up by the specific tissues targeted. In the case of vascular skin lesions, the blood vessels which make them up absorb this energy and are selectively destroyed, without damaging surrounding tissues.

The laser we have at the Prince of Wales Public Hospital is the latest of its kind. Unlike earlier vascular lasers, the wavelength of its yellow beam can be varied to treat a wider range of vascular skin problems. It is also able to penetrate deeper into the skin, allowing deeper vascular lesions to be treated. As an additional feature, it has a cryogenic spray which freezes the uppermost skin layer a fraction of a second before the laser beam impact, so as to reduce any discomfort felt.

About the Treatment Process

A doctor's referral will be required. At the initial consultation, we will assess the suitability of your vascular skin problem for treatment. If laser treatment is appropriate, we will conduct test patches on a small area of the lesion to determine the correct power levels required. After 8-12 weeks, we then evaluate the results of the test patch and treatment may then begin. We will at that time discuss with you whether all or only part of the lesion will be treated in any one session. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary.

During treatment, your eyes will be protected by special goggles. The amount of discomfort is not excessive, and with the cryogenic spray is minimal or negligible. If discomfort is a problem, local anaesthetic may be required. Bruising of the treated area is normal and disappears after 1-2 weeks.

Occasionally there may be blistering or crusting after treatment, but this will resolve by itself. Rarely, there may be pigment changes (lighter or darker), thinning of the skin or even scarring. Most of these changes resolve in 6 months. We will instruct you how to look after your skin after treatment, so as to reduce the risk of these complications.

If you have further questions or concerns, please discuss them with us at the time of your consultation.