This practice uses the KTP Aura Laser (532nm) for the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions found predominantly on the face. The Aura can treat:
- Broken capillaries,
- Rosacea,
- Haemangiomas,
- Pigmented lesions such as seborrheic keratosis, or
- Brown spots,
and may be effective for treatment of
- Facial flushing
- Pigmentation post sclerotherapy.
The KTP laser selectively targets hemoglobin in blood vessels or melanin in pigmented lesions and generates local heat to destroy its target. Multiple treatment sessions are usually required. Treatment results may take between 4 to 6 weeks and perfection cannot be guaranteed.
What should you do before a laser treatment?
- Do not cease any medications unless advised.
- Do not present with a tan and avoid sun exposure and solariums for 4 weeks prior to treatment day.
- Do not book for treatment if you intend to have sun exposure in the four weeks following treatment.
What happens on the day of treatment?
- Do not apply moisturizers or make-up on the day of treatment.
- On arrival, anaesthetic cream will be applied for 30 minutes to the areas to be treated.
- Each session takes approximately 30 minutes
What should you do after KTP laser treatment?
- Expect a mild sunburnt feeling after the procedure, usually well controlled by ice-packs and panadol.
- Apply ice-packs to the treated areas for 5 to 10 minutes hourly while awake for the first 24 hours following treatment.
- Apply Savlon cream twice a day or aloe vera (keep in fridge) as often as desired to any scabs for a period of 7 to 10 days.
- Apply sunscreen to treated areas 2-3 times a day for the following 4 weeks. Wear a hat and sunglasses whilst outdoors.
- Avoid the use of any skin products containing Retinoids, Hydroxy acids and Antioxidants for the first 14 days post procedure.
- Avoid heavy exercise and swimming for the first 48 hours after your laser treatment.
What can you expect following KTP laser treatment?
- Mild discomfort and erythema (redness). This will be lessened by the use of ice packs in the first 24 hours.
- Scabbing. Pigmented lesions can sometimes appear grey in color. This may increase in the 2 days following treatment.
- Swelling. This will be maximum in the first 2 to 3 days post treatment.
What are the possible complications post KTP laser treatments?
- Allergic reaction to the anaesthetic cream is rare.
- Hyperpigmentation may occur if patients have sun exposure within 4 weeks of treatment. This is avoidable with the use of sunscreens. If present it may respond to bleaching creams.
- Hypopigmentation can occur but is rare.
- Scarring can occur but is rare.
