Skin blemishes due to abnormal blood vessels located directly under the skin are called vascular lesions. Some individuals have had these since birth or shortly thereafter, while others develop vascular problems such as telangiectasias of the face as they grow older. Rosacea is a skin condition associated with broken blood vessels. Brown spots and pigmented lesions are present in many areas of the body and have different forms.

                                                                                                          Most of these lesions, as well as warts, can be treated under local anesthetic in the office. The congenital vascular problems such as port wine stains, especially in children, usually require an anesthetic in the hospital. Pigmented lesions, warts, and many vascular problems do well with one or two laser  treatments. The larger vascular problems and port wine stains can take 6-8 treatments, spaced 6-12 weeks apart.

     




    Following the laser treatment the areas heal in 4-10 days. Some areas have minimal discoloration and problems and can be covered with makeup after healing. The pink skin that develops usually fades in 7-21 days, depending on the area treated. The final results develop over the next few months. Additional treatments may be required.

The costs vary tremendously, depending on the area treated. Port wine stains in children are usually covered by insurance. Most small areas treated, such as brown spots on the cheek cost $150-250.00. Treatment of large areas, such as Rosacea of the cheeks, costs $650-1,200.00.