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Photodynamic Therapy
What Is Photodynamic Therapy (a.k.a. Blue Light Treatment)?Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for acne is a process by which a photosensitizing agent, aminolevulinic acid (ALA), is applied to your skin. A photosensitizing agent is a special solution applied that is activated by a specific wavelength of light, which “turns it on”. ALA has been used extensively for the treatment of a variety of different skin conditions. ALA is a natural product found in all humans throughout the body. What Are The Indications Of Photodynamic Therapy?
Am I A Candidate for Photodynamic Therapy?If you have acne or acne scars and you want an extremely effective treatment without systemic side effects, this may be the right treatment for you. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) also helps with brown spots, sun damaged kin, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, precancerous spots, facial redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, and large pores. What Does The Procedure Involve?High intensity blue-light or photodynamic therapy (PDT) is designed specifically to kill the bacteria responsible for acne and shrink the oil glands. This treatment also aids with acne scars. Acne treatments utilizing photodynamic therapy are state of the art. Photodynamic acne treatment involves the application of a photosensitizing agent which is then activated with blue light. This results in significant improvement in moderate to severe cystic acne. Photodynamic acne treatment involves three mechanisms of action against acne. Photodynamic therapy inactivates the bacteria that trigger acne, exfoliates the skin to unclog pores, and – perhaps most importantly - shuts down the sebaceous glands on the skin. This is critical because sebaceous glands are the root cause in the formation of acne. The treatment has a long lasting effect, even on severe acne. Photodynamic acne therapy can even work in patients who have a failed experience with Accutance. Accutane targets the sebaceous gland but with fairly toxic side effects. Photodynamic acne therapy is a very safe alternative to Accutane treatments. Photodynamic therapy also aids with acne scarring, rosacea or facial redness, broken capillaries or facial veins, fine lines, brown spots or sun damaged skin, uneven pigmentation, precancerous spots and enlarged pores. What Are The Advantages?The advantages of PDT are rapid treatment without surgical excision and no systemic side effects. The skin appears refreshed, glowing and younger following these treatments. Treatments are very safe with rare frequency of side-effects. How Long Is The Procedure?The procedure generally takes from 45 minutes to 1 hr and 15 minutes. How Many Treatments of Photodynamic Therapy Are Required?We advise 2-4 treatments at 2 to 3 week intervals to obtain optimal results. How Long Do The Results Last?The results are good over the long term, generally lasting one year or longer. Will I Have Pain?Most patients are essentially pain free during this procedure. We use the latest technology to minimize discomfort. We also apply our especially formulated highly effective pre-treatment topical anesthetic cream. This is sufficient for most patients. As an additional measure, we use the Zimmer cold air device, which gently blows cold air against the skin, to facilitate comfort. Every person has a different threshold for pain, for those especially sensitive patients, we have developed other protocols to ensure that treatment is comfortable allowing you to fully enjoy results without associated pain. When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?You can generally return to work or school in 5-7 days. Can I Be Treated If I Have Dark Skin?This treatment can be used effectively on dark skin. You may be given a special skin treatment regimen by our office. Who Will Perform My Treatment?All treatments are performed/supervised by our skilled board certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons. What Are My Alternatives?
What is the Cost of Photodynamic Therapy?The cost for this procedure may vary from patient to patient depending on various factors; however, we guarantee that our pricing will always be competitive with that of other local providers furnishing equivalent services. We provide excellent financing options, and discounts for multiple procedures are available. Call 1-800-506-8084 for more details. Will Insurance Cover The Procedure?Most insurance companies do not offer reimbursement for cosmetic procedures; however, you should consult your insurance provider for specific information since acne and rosacea are medical conditions. Is It FDA Approved?All laser and intense pulsed light equipment used at TopSurgeons are state of the art and FDA approved. For Further Information:If you have been wondering how to enhance your skin quality and texture, call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 and arrange a private consultation. We would be happy to address all of your concerns. |