|
Almost everyone has a pigmented lesion of some type. These areas of the skin contain especially high concentrations of melanin and are typically caused by an excess of pigment commonly due to sun exposure, aging or genetic factors. Pigmented lesions vary widely in size, shape and depth. Some are no bigger than a fingertip or even a pinhead, while others may be as large as a hand and occur in such conspicuous places as the face, neck or arms. They can be either raised or flat and are usually a cosmetic rather than a medical concern. However, certain moles or "sun spots" can be precancerous; removing these lesions is medically necessary.
Pigmented Lesions
Age spots, solar lentigines, can be successfully treated. The treatment is quick and easy, with minimal discomfort. Commonly treated areas are the hands, arms, face, neck and chest. Prior to treatment these lesions must be evaluated to rule out skin cancer.
Vascular Lesions
Facial veins, spider veins and vascular red spots respond quickly to laser treatments. Hemoglobin in the vessel is the target. One treatment is necessary and results are immediate, with minimal discomfort.
Lasers produce high-intensity light that can be used to selectively heat the hemoglobin contained in the red blood cells inside the blood vessels. The laser is able to target the hemoglobin and the heat generated in the unwanted blood vessel is able to close it off without damaging the surrounding tissue, thus minimizing the risk of burns and scars.
|
|
