Laser Procedures

For many men and women, the usual remedies for unwanted hair are plucking, shaving, waxing, or chemical depilatories. Some are painful, some are messy, and all are only temporary. At Spa One, our onsite medspa, laser hair removal is preferred by our clients because it's a simpler, more convenient solution that lasts. Using the LightSheer® DUET™ laser, unwanted hair can be reduced quickly, comfortably, and more completely than ever before.

HOW IT WORKS:
Lasers produce a beam of highly concentrated light. The color of light produced by a particular laser is the key to its effect on hair follicles. The light emitted by the laser harmlessly passes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles. The laser pulses for a fraction of a second, just long enough to vaporize the pigment. Multiple follicles are disabled at a time, stopping or significantly impeding the hair's re-growth.

BENEFITS OF THE DUET LASER:
The high-speed LightSheer DUET is an ingenious improvement upon the LightSheer diode laser, the former gold standard system used in Albany for laser hair removal. The DUET is safe and effective for skin of all colors and types. In addition to the many benefits provided by the diode laser, the DUET offers:

• A significantly larger spot size (22 mm x 35 mm, compared to 12 mm x 12 mm)
• Vacuum-assist technology for increased comfort and effectiveness
• Comfortable treatments without topical anesthetic
• Treatment times up to 75% faster

Many people combine laser hair removal with other medical spa treatments to make the most of their visit. Popular choices are BOTOX® Cosmetic, ProFractional™ laser treatments, and vein treatments. Find out about all of your options at your personal consultation.

THE PROCEDURE:
Our highly experienced estheticians perform laser hair removal treatments at Spa One under the supervision of our board-certified plastic surgeons. They have been extensively trained on the use of lasers and have exceptional records of safety and effectiveness.

No topical anesthetic or treatment gel is needed for DUET treatments. The special handpiece applies gentle suction to the skin, which increases both patient comfort and treatment effectiveness. Pulling the skin upwards constricts blood vessels and brings the hair follicles closer to the laser. Instead of feeling the uncomfortable zap of the laser, you feel the gentle pressure of the suction.

The length of a DUET laser session will depend on the size and number of areas being treated. While laser hair removal on the legs can take an average of 60 minutes, it can be performed in an average of 20 minutes with the DUET. Treatment of the hair on the back is reduced from an average of 60 minutes, down to 20 minutes or less. Because the laser tends to treat hair follicles that are in an active growth phase, more than one treatment may be required to disable hair follicles that subsequently enter this growth phase.

For many people, there comes a time when a tattoo no longer feels like it belongs. Sometimes the tattoo represents a different chapter in their lives; sometimes it becomes less vibrant and sharp over time. Whatever the reason, laser tattoo removal using the CUTERA® enlighten™ system helps patients effectively treat unwanted tattoos.

HOW IT WORKS:
What we see as a tattoo is essentially dots of ink pigment placed deep within the skin. In laser tattoo removal, those dots of pigment break apart into smaller particles when hit with the laser. Once the particles are small enough, the body is then able to flush them out naturally, without leaving any scar tissue behind.

The CUTERA enlighten laser system uses precise, high-energy pulses to facilitate the breakdown of ink particles. These pulses can be delivered at 2 wavelengths and 2 different durations — which gives us more ways to adjust for the color and density of the ink pigment used at different places in your tattoo.

Treating an unwanted tattoo can require multiple sessions, and pricing can vary accordingly. Black ink is generally the easiest to remove, while red ink is the most challenging. Because every tattoo varies in size, color, and shading, we will need to look at yours in our initial consultation to determine how many treatments will be necessary.

CUTERA enlighten is safe and effective for patients of all ages and skin pigments.

THE PROCEDURE:
To prepare patients, we begin by cleansing the area that will be treated. Depending on where the tattoo is located, we may provide patients with a protective eye shield. During the treatment itself, we will test the skin's reaction to the laser with a few pulses, then begin following the contours of your tattoo with the CUTERA enlighten device. Discomfort is minimal; many patients liken the laser pulse to a pinching or snapping feeling against the skin.

Immediately after treatment, we place an icepack over the treated area. There is no downtime. Patients are given a topical ointment to apply and are instructed to protect the treated area by applying sunscreen and covering it up when in direct sunlight.

After a laser treatment, patients report that the treated area can be mildly irritated, akin to a sunburn. We typically schedule each treatment between 4 and 8 weeks apart, in order to give the body time to naturally process the ink pigment broken up by the laser.

Cosmetic laser skin resurfacing in our Albany medical spa is a procedure that renews the skin's appearance and texture. It also corrects areas of uneven pigmentation. The result is a fresher, smoother complexion that can help you look years younger.

The erbium laser is a newer and gentler choice in laser skin resurfacing. Although results will vary, with few exceptions you can expect an improvement in the texture and quality of your skin. Erbium laser skin resurfacing offers the benefits of less pain during treatment and recovery, along with significantly faster healing times than other resurfacing lasers.

If you'd like to renew the appearance and texture of your skin with minimal downtime, consider the MicroLaserPeel®. This light-to-moderate laser peel precisely affects the outermost layers of the skin. We tailor each treatment specifically to your unique concerns and skin type to help you attain the improvements that matter the most to you.

BENEFITS OF MICROLASERPEEL®
If you are looking for a more significant improvement than with basic facial therapies like microdermabrasion or light chemical peels, and you have little time for healing, consider a MicroLaserPeel. Our Albany medical spa clients enjoy effective treatment of wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, keratoses, and pigment problems. Your skin will be smoother, healthier, and more vibrant with a significant, immediate improvement in skin texture and tightness.

Another skin rejuvenation option is BBL photo rejuvenation therapy, which improves skin tone and reduces unwanted pigmentation by penetrating beneath the skin to the collagen and excess melanin. We can give you even more impressive improvements by following the MicroLaserPeel, which corrects superficial irregularities, with ProFractional Therapy™ to enhance the skin's collagen.

THE PROCEDURE
A topical anesthetic is applied to your skin 30 to 45 minutes before the procedure for added comfort. As with our other laser resurfacing treatments, your eyes will be protected with safety shields. The physician will then hold the MicroLaserPeel hand-piece over the targeted areas as the laser emits brief pulses. Bandages are not required afterwards, but you will need to apply a prescription ointment for a few days to protect your treated skin. After that, a moisturizer can be used.

While a single treatment often provides excellent results, you might need a package of 3 to 4 treatments for optimal results. Your physician will determine what is necessary during your consultation.

RECOVERY
Because healing typically takes just 3 to 4 days, many people have their MicroLaserPeel performed on a Thursday or Friday and return to work the following Monday. Immediately following the procedure, your skin might look like you have a sunburn. You will have minor sloughing and itching on the second day. Redness will begin to fade by the third day and can be easily covered by makeup on the fourth day.

Enjoy dramatic improvement in wrinkles, scars, skin tone and texture with ProFractional™ laser skin resurfacing. These effective treatments are quick, comfortable, and require limited downtime. Our experienced plastic surgeons can show you how the results of ProFractional can help you enjoy younger, smoother, healthier skin.

BENEFITS OF PROFRACTIONAL THERAPY
Just about all areas, including the face, neck, chest, and hands, can be effectively treated with fractional resurfacing in our Albany practice. ProFractional treatments can greatly improve many different skin conditions, including:

• Rough or sagging skin
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Scars from surgery, injury, acne, and chicken pox
• Age spots, sun spots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation

In addition to being effective as a standalone procedure, ProFractional is an ideal complement to BBL™ Photo Rejuvenation Therapy or MicroLaserPeel® for a more comprehensive improvement. Patients who have had a change of heart about a tattoo can also benefit from laser tattoo removal through the CUTERA® enlighten™ laser system.

HOW IT WORKS
ProFractional utilizes an erbium:YAG laser that is safe for all skin types, both on the face and body. The laser creates thousands of pinpoint channels in the skin at a depth that your surgeon adjusts to your unique needs and improvement goals. The tiny treated channels alternate with untreated channels, so healing time is rapid and there is little or to downtime. The treated areas of the skin invigorate the body's natural healing process and begin to produce new collagen, which plumps the skin and helps to smooth wrinkles, lines, scars, and other skin imperfections.

THE PROCEDURE
ProFractional treatments are performed right in our office and normally take between just 15 and 30 minutes to complete. A soothing, anesthetic cream may be applied before the treatment for enhanced comfort.

In most cases, 1 to 4 ProFractional treatments are performed over a period of 3 to 6 weeks for maximum results. Your plastic surgeon will determine a treatment schedule that meets your individual needs and goals.

RECOVERY
After your ProFractional treatment, you will most likely experience some reddening of the skin in the treatment areas that is much like a light sunburn. People usually return to work in a couple of days depending on the depth. Makeup can usually be applied within a day or so after treatment.

It is important to avoid ultraviolet light until you have completely healed because your skin will be more sensitive. So, stay out of the direct sunlight and always use an effective sunscreen. We offer superb medical-grade skin care products that you can purchase in our office or online.

The PROFILE™ laser brings a new approach to skin peels. The PROFILE system's combination of 2 lasers sets a new standard for laser skin peels, allowing your physician to precisely vary the depth and effect of your laser treatment. Your peel will be tailored to match your skin condition and desired result.

BENEFITS OF THE PROFILE LASER SKIN PEEL
We use the PROFILE laser peel in our Albany medical spa to help restore the skin's natural beauty. The laser treats a thin layer of the skin's surface encouraging the growth of fresh, new skin cells. Often used on exposed areas like the face, neck, chest, and hands, PROFILE treats a variety of conditions such as wrinkles, birthmarks, acne scars, solar lentigines, actinic keratoses, hypertrophy scars, and surgical scars.

Other skin rejuvenation options include BBL™ photo rejuvenation therapy, ProFractional™ treatments, and Erbium laser resurfacing. During your consultation, we will help you decide which treatment will help you attain your aesthetic goals within your available recovery time.

THE PROCEDURE
First, your physician will discuss your anesthesia options to properly manage any discomfort from the laser peel, as the amount of discomfort varies from patient to patient. After your selected anesthesia has taken effect, your eyes will be protected with safety shields or glasses. The PROFILE laser beam will be delivered through a computer-controlled device that automatically scans the area of your skin being treated. You may hear a snapping or popping noise as the laser beam gently treats the outer skin cells.

The procedure usually takes from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated and the depth of your peel.

RECOVERY
Redness is common and swelling may be present in the treated areas for the first few hours after treatment. Actual healing time varies among individuals and will also depend on your actual treatment depth. It will take a few days to replace the outer layer of your skin. Your skin will have a residual pink or red color that will resolve over several weeks. Your physician will answer any questions about temporary changes to your skin color and how they may be camouflaged.

Your new skin will be very sensitive to ultraviolet light so you must avoid sun exposure until you have fully healed. Be sure to cover your skin, wear a hat, and use a good sunscreen if you go outdoors.

Spider veins commonly develop on the face and legs, and multiply over the years. Whether you try makeup, stockings, or long pants, it's often ineffective, uncomfortable, or just time-consuming to camouflage them. Instead, many people seek spider vein treatment to get the clear, beautiful skin they can't help
showing off.

VBEAM® LASER TREATMENT
The Vbeam® laser makes spider vein treatment quick and comfortable with little to no bruising. Its ultra-long pulse delivers energy to targeted blood vessels over a longer period of time, resulting in a gentle heating effect and uniform laser vein treatment. Our Albany clients enjoy added comfort because prior to each laser pulse, the laser's Dynamic Cooling Device™ applies a soothing protective spray to the targeted skin.

Spider veins are typically treated in 1 or 2 brief sessions, although results vary between patients. Because these treatments do not disturb the surface of the skin and there is no need for recovery time, most people are able to return to work or resume their usual activities immediately following the treatment. Another popular option is laser hair removal, which can help you have smooth skin on the body and face.

SCLEROTHERAPY
For treatment of larger spider veins of the legs, we use sclerotherapy in our Albany medical spa. This method involves the injection of a solution into the spider veins using a very fine-gauge syringe. The treatment takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes is performed in your physician's office. While there may be some local discomfort with this procedure, it typically fades within just 2 to 3 minutes and there are very few post-treatments restrictions.

At The Plastic Surgery Group, our plastic surgeons are experienced in a variety of techniques for safe and effective treatment of vascular lesions and birthmarks. Our Albany patients often experience relief and increased self-confidence once their concerns are resolved.

TYPES OF VASCULAR LESIONS & BIRTHMARKS
At The Plastic Surgery Group we can fade or even completely correct many common vascular birthmarks and lesions including hemangiomas, telangiectasia, and cherry angiomas.

Hemangiomas
Hemangiomas (port wine stains, strawberry nevus, red, pink or blue birthmarks) are blood vessel malformations that occur during fetal development. They are the most common vascular tumor of infancy and childhood and the most frequent congenital anomaly. They affect upwards of 5% of newborns and yet only about half are evident at birth. However, almost all mark their presence within the first year of life and are best treated early. More than 50% of all hemangiomas occur on the head and neck region. Ten to 15% of patients exhibit multiple lesions and there is a 5:1 ratio of male to female preference.

Telangiectasia
Telangiectasia is a diffuse pattern of spider veins and/or "flush" appearance to the overlying skin. This can also give a blotchy appearance with skipped areas.

Cherry Angiomas
Cherry angiomas are bright red, purple, or magenta spots that can occur anywhere but most commonly on the torso. They are usually seen in older patients and may be the result of a weakness in the blood vessel walls causing a small bubble or hernia in the wall of the vessel.

MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT
We offer a variety of options for treating and managing vascular lesions and birthmarks. Your physician will determine which will be most effective for you during your consultation.

Laser
We possess a wide variety of lasers that address these imperfections based on their color, size, and thickness. Our lasers, including the Vbeam® laser that is also used for vein treatment, work effectively and are relatively painless. The laser works by emitting an energy beam of light at a preselected frequency and power (much like selecting various radio channels). This energy coagulates the blood in the vessels while preserving the overlying skin. Eventually, the abnormal vessels cease to function and disintegrate.

Because laser energy generates heat, our state-of-the-art lasers are adapted to emit a cool mist during treatment to minimize any discomfort. The number of treatments varies depending on the size and thickness of the lesion. The treatment may occasionally cause temporary skin blistering and discoloration. Treatments can be scheduled approximately 4 to 8 weeks apart. This gives the tissue adequate time to heal and to absorb the treated blood vessels. The patients might not see the effects of treatment for several weeks. The pre- operative visual consultation is extremely important in order to customize your treatment plan.

Sclerosing Agents
These are solutions that are injected directly into the offending vessels. When used in specific cases, these products irritate the blood vessel lining while rupturing the blood cells themselves. Eventually the treated vessel will be eradicated.

Excision
Some lesions may be amenable to direct surgical removal either because of their size and/or location.

Steroids
Certain infant blood vessel anomalies can be significantly decreased in size with the judicial use of these substances. They are usually used in combination with the previous mentioned therapies and work to temporarily, but rapidly, reduce the size of the lesion.