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POSTED UNDER IPL REVIEWS

Not Worth It - Pittsburgh, PA

ORIGINAL POST

I got an IPL 10 days ago to remove a few brown...

K-Chick
$500

I got an IPL 10 days ago to remove a few brown spots on my face, using a Groupon. I ended up with painful burns and blisters. They've since healed, but I'm left with stripes on my face that are impossible to hide with makeup.

The doctor who owns the plastic surgery where I had the procedure done swears that the proper protocols were followed and the results would have been the same even if he had done it himself. I think they have a standard setting they use, and didn't take into account my Asian ethnicity.

I would urge anyone who wants to try IPL to make sure that they do a test patch before anything else. I would never recommend this to anyone. Groupon gave me a full refund.

K-Chick's provider

Dinakar Golla, MD

Dinakar Golla, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

K-Chick rating for Dr. Golla:

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Replies (26)

August 8, 2011

HI K, 

Oh my that looks painful, I'm so sorry. That was cool of Groupon to give you a full refund though, and you are probably right, other community members have mentioned some doctors do not take into account ethnic skin. I'm glad it looks like it's healing hopefully you will be back to your old self soon. Your advice of a test patch is great for the community. 

Thank you so much, enjoy your week!

-Britt

August 9, 2011

Hi K, Thank you for your courage to post this response. I am glad Groupon refunded your money, but I hope the Dr. can correct this matter for you. Are you permitted to disclose the office that you went to?

Regards,
A-Chick

September 12, 2011
I'm sorry this happened to you. If you have not, please file an adverse event report with the FDA. It is vitally important that all such events be filed with the FDA.

You can file on line:

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm

You will need to know the manufacturer and which model of IPL it was.
September 13, 2011

Oh My God! You need to speak with an attorney. This is NOT what is supposed to happen after a photofacial. I have had about 5 in the past few years and have NEVER burned or even blistered. The only symptom I have is redness for a few hours and I have extremely sensitive skin. In fact, so sensitive that the procedure was done by a nurse at an allergy clinic at Piedmont Ear Nose and Throat in Atlanta. You have a malpractice suit on your hands. Don't wait.

September 28, 2011
Oh gosh, I'm terribly sorry. Yes, you have a lawsuit to take care of! The first priority is your face. However, you may want to get the lawsuit started... because you could use the money you win (I'd sure hope you'd win) to pay for some top doctors and safe things that could help the scarring. Years ago I had something awful happen from a doctor who messed up and I was so focused on getting better that I never even thought to sue. Years later I wished I had, but there are statues of limitation on time. At least if I sued it could have helped pay medical bills. I wish you the best of luck!
April 29, 2015
Wow, nicely said. I so agree. I don't care what you sign. They have insurance to cover themselves.