Doctor's diagnosis & consultation required.
The Cynosure Accolade Laser is a Q-Switched Alexandrite System which is the gold standard of lasers worldwide. You have a tan, blue gray or brown skin mark or lesion that is caused by a deposit of pigmented cells (Melanocytes) at various depths under the skin surface. The Cynosure Accolade Laser will focus a red beam of light on the unwanted pigment in your skin and destroy it without damaging the normal skin.
THE FOLLOWING FACTORS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED IN YOUR DECISION TO UNDERGO THIS LASER TREATMENT.
- Multiple laser treatments are usually necessary. Lentigines (sun/age spots) require 1 to 3 treatments [the V Beam Laser or IPL may be used]. Café-au-lait macules (light tan or pale brown patches apparent at birth) require 2 to 3 treatments. Nevus of Ota (blue-gray patch on the face) requires 4 to 6 treatments. The number of treatments may vary depending on each individual's response. The above lesions will need to be correctly diagnosed by a dermatologist. Lentigines that are rough and raised are not suitable for laser therapy. Freezing or Liquid Nitrogen will offer safer results.
- Treatments are usually scheduled at intervals of 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your healing time.
- The impact of the Laser feels like a snap of a rubber band, making it mildly uncomfortable. Patients with larger marks or those who are very sensitive may require an anaesthetic cream (Emla) or injection before the treatment.
- Immediately after the treatment, swelling and bruising, followed later by crusting and scabbing, can occur. This may persist for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Fading of the treated lesion can continue for up to 6 months after laser treatment in some instances.
- Although existing laser research and clinical evidence indicate that laser surgery is safe, there is no guarantee that your condition can be completely treatment by laser.
- Although the side effects of these procedures are minimal, a small risk of the following could occur after the laser treatment.
- Skin texture change or scarring
- Dyspigmentation (skin lightening or darkening)
- Infection
- Incomplete removal of pigmented lesions
- Allergic reaction to ointment or other contactant
- After each treatment, it is vital to follow a strict skin care regime. The treated area must be kept clean at all times. Use mild, gentle cleansers that do not contain any fruit acids or alcohol. If necessary, apply Bactroban or Fucidin regularly to the treated areas. Ice packs will help reduce the swelling. Burnshield cream will soothe and rehydrate the skin. Use sun block regularly during the day.
- Do not scratch or pick off scabs as this will lead to scarring.
- When your skin is healed, you may have your next treatment. Your laser operator endeavours to provide you with a satisfying experience, so please do not hesitate to ask any questions before, during or after your treatment.