Spider Angioma on Face, Can I Laser It While Nursing?

Question

I was referred to another doctor after having three treatments, but I am pregnant now and was told to wait because the hormones can effect my skin's reaction. Do I have to wait until I'm done nursing too?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Spider angiomas can occur as a result of hormones during pregnancy. It is safe to undergo laser treatment for spider angiomas while you are nursing.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

I agree that it is not wise to perform vascular laser treatments during pregnancy as, due to hormonal and blood volume issues, this can be nonproductive. I do perform vascular laser treatments while someone is breatfeeding. However, sometimes vessels that are apparent during preganacy fade substatially afterwards any may not require treatment. I would discuss this with your doctor.

Deborah Sarnoff, MD · Answer

The PDL laser which is used to treat a spider angioma uses "visible light" -- not ionizing radiation like an "X-Ray"; therefore, there would be no harm to the baby. It is a safe treatemtent to have done, even while nursing.

Kenneth L. Stein, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

It is perfectly safe to have laser treatments while breast feeding. There are no toxins that would be released into the breast milk. I am curious why you have needed three treatments and still have the angiomata. The best laser for these lesions combines a 1064 ND/Yag laser with a pulsed dye laser. Make sure that is what you are treated with.

Spider Angioma on Face, Can I Laser It While Nursing?

Answers (4)