VBeam Perfecta’s pulsed dye laser uses heat to target blood vessels and pigmented cells. It works well on lighter skin and is not recommended for some darker skin tones. We often recommend a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or laser skin resurfacing as an alternative treatment for patients with high level of melanin in their skin.
We love the VBeam Perfecta system because it was designed with the patient’s comfort in mind. Most patients won’t experience anything more than mild discomfort during a session, and the manufacturer built in a feature called an integrated dynamic cooling device to counteract the effects of the heat generated by the laser’s energy.The cooling component is built into the handheld laser wand and emits a cold mist before each laser pulse. The result is a warm, tingly sensation as the wand is moved over your skin.
The best results begin with choosing a skilled clinician. Dr. Ben Light, the only double board-certified facial plastic surgeon between Nashville and Birmingham, has more than two decades of experience using lasers in cosmetic and medical treatment plans.
In addition to choosing the right practitioner, Dr. Light recommends wearing sunblock with a protection factor of at least SPF 30 throughout your treatment plan. We’ll also review any additional post-treatment care specific to your conditions during your consultation.
One of the reasons Dr. Ben Light selected the VBeam Perfecta system is its safety record. Following treatment, most patients will experience minor redness or swelling in the area where the handheld laser was used. It’s rare, but some patients may experience a “laser bruise,” known as purpura. This bruise will disappear within five days.
Immediately after your treatment, your skin will appear red, irritated, and moderately swollen, which can continue for the first 2 to 3 days. However, most patients begin to see the results of their VBeam Perfecta treatment after about 4 to 8 weeks. At this time, the skin will have had time to heal, and pigmentation that has been broken apart by the laser will be successfully shed away.
You can do a few things to help promote faster healing, like cleansing with a gentle cleanser and keeping your skin moisturized with an approved lotion by your doctor. Always keep your skin protected with SPF 30 or higher or with protective clothing, as your skin will be susceptible to UV light, making it prone to burns. Avoid intense cold or heat, such as when you shower or intense weather conditions. It is also best to refrain from saunas or Jacuzzis that can lead to inflammation.
For patients seeking a smoother, more even-toned complexion, we recommend four to five treatments spaced four weeks apart. In addition, patients may consider maintenance treatments once their desired results are achieved.
VBeam Perfecta treatments generally involve a quick and problem-free recovery. Redness, swelling, and minimal discomfort can develop after a VBeam treatment; however, this will resolve after a few days. During your recovery, it’s essential to keep your skin hydrated, clean, and protected from the sun at all times. It may also be beneficial to avoid strenuous activities that could cause you to sweat heavily until the inflammation has subsided. If you feel self-conscious about the redness of your skin, it is safe to apply makeup to the treated area immediately after your treatment.
If you suffer from any of the conditions listed above, you are likely a suitable candidate for VBeam Perfecta laser treatments. However, it is important to mention that VBeam is not recommended for patients with darker skin complexions as their higher pigmentation can act as a barrier that interferes with the laser’s ability to target the deeper blood vessels of the lesion. As a result, the pulse dye laser can cause unwanted skin darkening. To find out if you’re a candidate for this treatment, the best thing to do is schedule a consultation with Dr. Light.
The development of redness in any area of the body is usually caused by the blood flow traveling through a network of blood vessels within the skin. The greater the blood flow in a given area, the redder the skin will appear. Normal networks of blood vessels are set deep within the skin, thereby limiting the appearance of excessive redness, even in areas with higher blood flow. However, there are aberrant, localized, or broken small blood vessels that can sit at the skin’s surface. These are referred to as broken capillaries, spider veins, or angiomas. The reason these vessels develop is usually due to genetics or inherited causes.
The answer to this question largely depends on the size of the area you want to have treated. Most laser treatments take between 15 to 20 minutes.
Dr. Ben Light designs each VBeam Perfecta laser treatment plan to address your unique conditions and concerns. We start your treatment plan with a thorough presentation of the science and safety of this cutting-edge treatment. We make sure you’re a good candidate and build your treatment schedule to achieve your aesthetic and clinical goals. At our practice, you’re in the hands of a facial plastic surgery and laser skin care expert every step of the way.