PDL for acne scars and redness. Did I make my scars worse? (Photo)

Question

During the procedure I was told that my skin wasn't responding as expected.. No reaction until the highest setting. There still isn't bruising, but there is redness and a lot of swelling. Is this normal? Did I make my scars worse permanently? When can I expect results?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Vbeam laser is an excellent modality for patients who have rosacea, blushing of the skin, facial and body telangiectasia, spider veins, redness, post surgical redness, and skin flushing. It is a safe procedure that can be used at varying depths to help treat micro blood vessels in the skin. We also use it in our office for facial skin inflammation, keloids, and hypertrophic scarring. It is an important part of scar therapy. Vbeam can be combined with chemical peels and other lasers, but experience with the treatment is essential. The Vbeam laser does not affect deeper tissue. Schedule a consultation with an expert in Vbeam and you will find it to be an excellent modality for many skin types. 
 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

With any laser comes potential side effects including swelling, redness, pain, bruising, burns and change in pigmentation. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care and treatment options. Pulsed Dye or Proyellow can be used to treat redness and/or acne scarring, but a combination approach would give the most improvement. This can be improved with a combination of lasers (ProYellow, Excel V, Vbeam), Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Pulse dye laser can cause bruising and swelling and I precondition and treat my patients with a bioflavonoid product called Swell-x pt (post treatment) and also an oral supplement for PIH relief called Scler-X and I find them to be effective. As mentioned, efficacy is related to destruction of blood vessels with expected bruising and unfortunately, potential for hyperpigmentation, hence the need to use such products. Link is provided for more informationHratch L Karamanoukian MD FACS

Zein E. Obagi, MD · Answer

If PDL is done too light you won't see results at all. The right balance has to be obtained between efficacy and causing expected reactions. I usually test spot my patients to look for the result I want. Bruising can occur with PDL and means the laser has actually destroyed the blood vessel causing redness.

PDL for acne scars and redness. Did I make my scars worse? (Photo)

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