I'm getting the V Beam treatment for my rosacea, how many sessions are needed?

Question

I heard usually 3 but I also heard some say it can be done in 1 intense treatment? Is one method better than the other in terms of results? Is one less riskier? Is one cheaper than the other? How long is the down time for each? When can I return to work? How long will the results last for each?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

In our office, we have several treatments that can help improve common vascular skin issues, including rosacea, post-inflammatory erythema, red scars, facial blushing, and spider veins. The Vbeam laser continues to be the gold standard for redness, including rosacea and post-inflammatory erythema. In some cases, we add Venus Viva RF coagulation to help improve redness on the skin from spider veins, inflammation, and rosacea. 
  
Generally, several sessions are required to improve redness on the skin. Vbeam laser, IPL Limelight, and Venus Viva all work very well with minimal downtime. 
  
Patients with rosacea may benefit from topical creams to help soothe inflamed skin. We recommend Elevase Moisture Booster. For Post-inflammatory erythema, Plato’s Scar Serum is recommended twice daily. 
  
Best, 
  
Dr. Karamanoukian
  
Realself100 Surgeon

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

An in-person examination would be needed, though typically we treat Rosacea with a Pulse Dye Laser (V-Beam). Pulse Dye Lasers use a concentrated “beam” to destruct any visible blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin. Common side-effects include mild bruising and swelling. Most patients can return to normal activity the following day. Treatments are done once a month for a series of 6 session. Patient may be required to retreat annually to preserve results.
Always discuss any additional questions or concerns with a Board-Certified Dermatologist.

Alice Pien, MD · Answer

To address surface vascularization, a KTP 532 laser or Long Pulse Dye (Vbeam 595) are both effective.  As the Vbeam has slightly longer wave length, is will reach deeper tissue.  However, many KTP lasers offer a greater range of pulse duration and spot size that allow for a more precise treatment with less downtime.  Power setting (fluence) is a balance between efficacy and downtime. For instance, you are much more likely to produce bruising ("purpura") using a Vbeam. 
Deeper Rosacea will require even longer wave lengths such as those produced by a NdYag 1064.
What many practices overlook, is the need to strengthen the collagen matrix of the upper layers of the dermis.  In our experience, Rosacea is always associated with degradation of this layer, and thus for superior and long-term results, Rosacea protocols need to include treating this layer.  For this the fractional CO2 is perfect... However, in sever cases, the vascularization needs to be cleared up before the fractional CO2 should be used.  
Generally, a series of 3-5 treatments will produce fabulous results. Your face will be sunburn red for a few days after each treatment.

I'm getting the V Beam treatment for my rosacea, how many sessions are needed?

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I'm getting the V Beam treatment for my rosacea, how many sessions are needed?

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Everything you need to know about Vbeam

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.