Pigment (Liver) Spots
What are these spots anyway?
Almost everyone has some sort of brown spots on his or her skin, whether it be in the form of freckles, age spots, liver spots, sun damage due to suntanning, or birthmarks. Medically these are known as pigmented lesions. These spots exist because melanin, the complex which gives our skin its color, has become concentrated in one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin can be present at birth, but usually they are due to aging or over exposure to the sun's damaging rays.
Minimizing brown spots
Today, treatment of these brown pigmented spots is available at Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. using the Q-Switched YAG Laser. This laser allows patients to have their spots treated with minimal risk of scarring, and is even safe and effective for the treatment of infants and children.
The Q-Switched YAG Laser
For the treatment of superficial brown pigmented spots, the Q-Switched YAG Laser emits various light wavelengths in very short, high intensity pulses designed to target dark areas. The light energy passes through the skin, but is absorbed by the abnormal concentrations of melanin. Due to the rapid absorption of the light energy, the melanin destructs and the concentration is reduced. The combination of the wavelength and speed of the pulsed light emitted produces minimal damage to normal skin while providing maximum melanin concentration removal. For spots which cover a large area of the body, the physician may choose to treat the area in several stages to avoid any unnecessary discomfort to the patient. The result is skin which is more uniform in color and texture. On order to maintain the results of the laser surgery, patients will need to wear protective sunscreen.
All things considered
As with any elective surgery, there are many factors to take into consideration before deciding to proceed with laser surgery. Although many pigmented spots can be easily ignored, some may be quite conspicuous and detract from the skin's beauty. Among the many pros of opting for laser surgery is that the procedures are performed here at Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C. and at the Peoria Ambulatory Surgery Center on an out-patient basis. This not only provides you with the convenience, privacy and confidentiality of a physician's office, it also allows for loser costs for the procedures performed, which cannot be realized at larger institutions. Laser surgery is helpful in removing brown pigmented spots with minimal risks of scarring. But most importantly, the patient receives piece of mind knowing that his or her skin is healthier and more beautiful.
Although the risks are minimal, they do need to be considered. Infection is a remote possibility. Although common pigmented spots do not return after treatment, some birthmarks may return after several months to a year. However, results can be re-achieved with further treatment. It is important to note that lesions which are cancerous or are suspected of being cancerous cannot be removed with these laser techniques. Also, scarring, increased or decreased pigment, partial results, and blisters are other risks to be considered.
The benefits of Laser Surgery
Payment Options
At Soderstrom Dermatology Cosmetic Laser Center there are various methods of payment accepted for the treatment of pigmented spots. Note that it is possible that these services will not be covered by your insurance. Patients may pay in advance, by credit card, or arrange a payment plan. In addition, we can help you apply for payment through CompleteCare, Inc. financial company.
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