Best Laser for Venous Lake Treatment?

Question

I have a somewhat large venous lake on my lower lip. I saw two dermotologists who confirm the diagnosis. One wanted to cut, then scrape it out. The other suggested laser. I read that laser removal is the preferred over basically 'scraping it out'.Is there a specific type of laser to use?

Sue Ellen Cox, MD · Answer

There are two types of lasers that I like to use to treat Venous Lakes. If it is a deep Venous Lake ie blue and thicker the Gentlelase would be the preferred method. If it is red then I like to use the Vbeam laser. Multiple treatments are sometimes necessary.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Venous lakes are treated with long pulse 532 or 1064 nm lasers. More than one session will be necessary and likelihood for recurrence in the future requiring maintenance treatment.

Craig Crippen, MD · Answer

laser to use these is the Pulsed Dye laser at 595nm.  you can also use a sclerosant solution and inject this but a laser usually works quite well BUT requires multiple treatments normally.

	Cheers

Bryan K. Chen, MD · Answer

I like lasers for treating venous lakes.  There are several lasers that would work.  Since a venous lake is a rather large vascular growth, lasers with longer wavelengths, for example the Nd:YAG 1064 laser would be my choice although a v-beam/pulsed dye laser, diode or IPL/fotofacial device would probably work.  You may need more than a single treatment.
Good luck.

Best Laser for Venous Lake Treatment?

Answers (4)