Laser treatments
What is it?
What is it?There is no such thing as a universal laser that works for everything. Different types of laser exist, depending on the skin condition. A laser emits light beams. When the laser beam is targeted at the skin, it hits a small area (so it is selective) while avoiding other spots. The structures treated are determined by the type of laser and the strength of the beam.
Vascular laser
Vascular laser![The vascular laser](https://www.mariamiddelares.be/public/Lasertoestel-2.jpg)
What is it?
We have a vascular laser (a KTP) that can be used for:
- port-wine stains (angiomas)
- couperose skin (rosacea)
- dilated blood vessels in scars
- certain skin conditions (as per indication)
- spider naevi (spider veins)
- some small pigmentation spots
Practical information
- The objective of the procedure is to improve the blood vessel problem.
- This type of treatment is not performed in the summer.
- The procedure is not reimbursed by the mandatory health insurance and the price is determined by the amount of laser therapy.
- It is not always possible to predict how many treatment cycles are needed. This depends on many factors. We naturally strive for complete removal but this can never be guaranteed.
Treatment procedure
- The laser beam selectively targets the blood vessels while the surrounding tissue is spared.
- During treatment, a light tingling is felt. A numbing cream can be applied for this in advance.
- During the session, the site is cooled with ice (for pain relief).
- The duration of the treatment is ten to twenty minutes.
After the treatment
- After the treatment, small scabs or light swelling may occur. The scabs can be treated with a healing (scar) cream and ice can be applied on the swelling.
- Scarring is very rare.
- Sometimes, more than one session is necessary to achieve the desired result.
- The use of a good, total sunblock is recommended
CO² laser
CO² laser![CO² laser](https://www.mariamiddelares.be/public/Lasertoestel-1.jpg)
What is it?
This type of laser can be used for:
- Warts
- Elevations of the skin
- Certain skin disorders
- Sometimes in case of wrinkles and scars
Practical information
- The procedure is largely reimbursed by the health insurance.
- The intention is, of course, to remove the marks. We endeavour to achieve the best possible result. However, we cannot guarantee a specific final result.
Treatment procedure
- The treatment is performed under local anaesthetic.
- The marked skin is heated and vapourised.
- The surrounding tissue is spared.
After the treatment
- The treatment will result in a small wound, the depth of which is determined by the original mark. This will heal in one to three weeks and is treated with a healing ointment. The wound may take longer to heal.
- In case of pain, pain relief (paracetamol) may be taken. Applying ice (always in a flannel or glove) is also an option.
- Contact your attending physician if pain suddenly becomes stronger (throbbing pain, stabbing pain or in case you are concerned).
- The wound must be treated with the prescribed ointment. No other ointments than the one recommended by the physician may be used.
- Do not scratch the wound.
- The use of a good, total sunblock is recommended up to six months after the treatment.
- Swimming is not recommended
Centres and specialist areas
Centres and specialist areas
Something wrong or unclear on this page? Report it.
Latest publication date: 13/08/2024