Rosacea is a condition in which the skin has a red, flushed appearance,
most commonly affecting the skin of the cheeks, nose, forehead,
and around the mouth. As it progresses or the patient ages,
pustules can appear and the skin can get uneven and nodular or
bumpy, making the facial complexion rather unsightly.
Can lasers help treat Rosacea?
Yes, lasers can safely and effectively improve the facial skin damaged by Rosacea. There a several options available, depending on the severity of the Rosacea as well as the location. For example, thick nodular skin of the nose (rhinophyma) can be reduced significantly with the CO2 laser.
Less nodular and red, inflamed skin can be improved using the Laser Genesis Nd:Yag laser. This involves a series of pulses that gently heat the small blood vessels of the skin to allow the vessels to close. This takes away the redness. This may require 3 to 6 treatments at monthly intervals.
How is the laser Rosacea treatment done?
Mild to moderately severe cases of Rosacea require no anesthesia and have no down time. They can be treated with the Laser Genesis Nd:Yag laser. There is no need for anesthesia, though a topical numbing cream is sometimes applied. A series of pulses gently heats the small blood vessels of the skin to allow the vessels to close. This takes away the redness.
Treatment of larger, more nodular areas requiring resurfacing with the CO2 laser will require either in injection of local anesthesia or, perhaps, intravenous sedation in Dr. Guida’s AAAHC certified operating room with his board certified anesthesiologist. A week or antibiotic ointment on the treated area is necessary. This usually requires only one treatment.
When can I expect improvement in my Rosacea?
Immediately after the treatment there may be some redness which will fade after several days. When the Nd:Yag Genesis laser is used, there is a progressive improvement after each treatment. One can expect medium to excellent improvement of the rosacea several weeks after the series of treatments are completed.
The CO2 laser treatment for more severe Rosacea is usually a one time treatment. A healing ointment is needed for one week over the treated area. Afterwards, the area may be light pink for several weeks and can be covered with make up.
How many treatments are required for treating my Rosacea?
This may require 3 to 6 treatments at monthly intervals if treatment is done with the Nd:Yag laser. The CO2 laser usually only requires one treatment.
How do I set up an appointment and begin a treatment?
Dr. Guida would be happy to meet with you personally to discuss this laser treatment in detail. Please feel free to call the office at 212-871-0900 or schedule an appointment on line. We are here to help you.
