Restorative Skin Procedures by Mr Ioannis Goutos

Vascular Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment London

At a glance

Treatment time:

5-15 minutes, depending on area being treated.

Return to work:

Same day.

Anaesthetic:

None or local numbing cream.

Pulsed Dye Laser Cost:

Starting from £500

Pulsed Dye Laser treatments, also referred to as ‘PDL’ or ‘Vascular laser’ at Goutos London is a specific type of laser technique traditionally used to treat skin lesions such as haemangiomas or port wine stains.

How does Pulsed Dye Laser work?

Skin lesions are caused by small, clustered blood vessel malformations that are usually present from birth and hence known as ‘birth marks’. The pulsed dye laser works by producing concentrated beams of yellow-orange light, which target the red or blue looking haemoglobin under the skin.

The light beam is then converted to heat in the skin, which helps to break down the targeted haemoglobin and blood vessels to lighten their appearance, whilst leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. PDL can also be used to treat other skin lesions caused by prominent blood vessels, such as acne rosacea and fresh red scars.

Mr Ioannis Goutos is a leading plastic and burns surgeon and has a wealth of experience delivering a number of clinical, cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, including laser treatments. Your initial consultation will include a comprehensive assessment of your skin and the area you want treated followed by a detailed discussion of your treatment objectives. A collaborative treatment plan will be developed that aims to meet your aesthetic goals.

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What is Pulsed Dye Laser?

Dark birth marks, such as port wine stains or hemangiomas, as well as conditions such as acne rosacea can make some individuals feel less confident and more self-conscious about their skin. PDL treatments have a high safety profile as these techniques use laser beams to treat targeted areas only, meaning that there is a reduced risk of adverse effects in the nearby skin. PDL provides positive results for a number of skin conditions and in a variety of skin types, making it the treatment of choice for many.

In addition to treating skin problems caused by prominent blood vessels (known as ‘vascular lesions’), PDLs have also been shown to improve the appearance of other skin conditions. As well as the primary effect of light beams being converted to heat in targeted lesions, the PDL also causes some biological changes within the skin. This is known as a ‘photo-chemical effect’. This causes a regeneration-type reaction in the cells in the skin which can lead to improvement in multiple non-pigmented skin lesions such as:

Scars
Burns
Acne
Warts
Stretch marks

In these conditions, PDL can retain the benefits of being a targeted treatment and so minimizes the risk of any side effects within the surrounding skin.

If you are interested in having PDL it is important to seek the advice of a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to assess your target areas and discuss the best treatment options for your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pulsed Dye Laser

We know having medical, surgical or cosmetic treatment can seem daunting and it is natural to have questions. We are here to ensure your comfort and safety at all times. If you are unable to find the answer to your questions below, then please do not hesitate to contact us so we can help.

What is PDL treatment for vascular lesions?

PDL, or Pulsed Dye Laser, is a commonly used laser treatment for vascular lesions. It emits a pulsed beam of yellow light, typically at 585 nm, and is effective in treating various types of vascular lesions such as telangiectasias, hemangiomas, rosacea, and port wine stains. The PDL is known for its specificity and effectiveness in targeting blood vessels in the skin, making it a preferred choice for both congenital and acquired cutaneous vascular lesions.

How long do the results of pulsed dye laser last?

The results of pulsed dye laser (PDL) treatment for vascular lesions typically become fully apparent 3-4 months after the final treatment session. This timeline allows for the gradual healing and remodelling of the treated blood vessels. The longevity of the results can vary depending on the type and severity of the lesion, as well as individual patient factors. Some lesions may require multiple sessions for optimal results, and maintenance treatments might be necessary for certain conditions.

What are the risks associated with Pulsed Dye Laser treatments?

Most patients will have some mild bruising or lightening of the treated area immediately after laser therapy but this should resolve on its own. Laser treatments can also increase the sun sensitivity of the skin for 6 months after treatment, so it is important to wear appropriate clothing and use goo, high SPF protection. Finally, there is a small risk of scarring following laser treatments, which can be dependent on the area of skin being treated and the individual’s predisposition to developing scarring.

What kind of results can I expect from Pulsed Dye Laser treatments?

Treatment outcomes will vary between individuals and will depend on the type and location of the lesion being treated. With multiple treatments you can expect lightening of the affected region and a general brightening of the skin.

What are the side effects of Vascular Laser treatments?

PDL techniques are not usually painful, but can be uncomfortable during treatments. It is often described to feel like a ‘warm elastic band’ hitting the skin. You can use ice packs or an Aloe Vera gel after each treatment to sooth the treated area.

What is the difference between IPL & PDL?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses a broad spectrum of light, making it versatile for treating various skin issues like pigmentation, hair removal, and vascular lesions, thanks to its adjustable settings. In contrast, PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser) emits a single wavelength specifically targeting blood vessels, making it highly effective for vascular conditions such as rosacea and port wine stains. While IPL is more versatile and generally less expensive, PDL offers precision for specific vascular treatments.

How do I care for my skin after Vascular Laser?

You should avoid applying any harsh products on the treated skin for the first 48 hours after treatment, including soaps, fragrance-containing items or make-up. You should also avoid direct sun exposure and ensure good application of SPF protection on treated skin for at least 6 months after treatment.

How much does Pulsed Dye Laser in London cost?

Starting from £500

At Goutos London, we aim to deliver a premium service with no compromise on quality in order to deliver the best results possible for your needs.

Related conditions

Whatever your condition, and whatever your health goals are, we will ensure you get a holistic, focused and bespoke service that offers you the safest options for treatment aiming for the best possible outcome.

Acne

Burns

Stretch marks

Testimonials

Mr Goutos is delighted to share some of his patient and peer feedback on their experiences of his services.

Louise Steel

2023-08-16

Mr Goutos performed keloidectomy surgery on both my earlobes, and I am so grateful to have been referred to him. From the first consultation, through surgery, and now my 3-month follow-up, I have nothing but good words to say.

Luke Ward

2023-07-10

This man is an extremely intelligent, professional gentleman. He will set realistic expectations from the beginning and will not ‘beat around the bush’ so-to speak. From the initial consultation to post-surgery, it has been a rollercoaster ride. However the high level of expertise & professionalism Mr Goutos maintained has been impeccable. All I can say to any other individual considering treatment with Mr Goutos, is that you are in incredibly safe hands. And on top of this, he has a great sense of humour. I wish nothing but the best for this man, and the best results for his future patients.

Mauricio Lucas

2023-07-06

Outstanding Doctor - Exceptional Expertise I recently had the pleasure of consulting and also going through surgery. Dr. Goutos removed a large class of keloids from my back and chest, and without a doubt, I can confidently say that he is the best doctor I have ever had the privilege of seeing. From the moment I entered his practice, I was immediately struck by his professionalism, knowledge, and exceptional bedside manner. Dr. Goutos possesses an extraordinary level of expertise in his field, and his technical skills are truly remarkable. His ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions is unparalleled, and I have personally witnessed his remarkable success in improving the health and well-being of countless patients. What sets Dr. Goutos apart is his genuine care and concern for his patients. He takes the time to listen attentively, ensuring that he understands every aspect of the medical issue at hand. He communicates clearly and effectively, explaining complex medical concepts in a way that is easy to comprehend, which greatly helps in alleviating any concerns or fears. One aspect that impressed me greatly was Dr. Goutos' commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in his field. He incorporates cutting-edge techniques and treatments into his practice, ensuring that his patients receive the highest standard of care available. This dedication to continuous learning and improvement is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his profession. Additionally, the support staff at Dr.Goutos' practice deserves recognition for their exceptional service. They are friendly, compassionate, and highly efficient, ensuring that appointments run smoothly and patients feel comfortable throughout the entire process. Overall, I cannot emphasize enough how fortunate I feel to have found Dr.Goutos' exceptional skills, genuine care, and unwavering commitment to his patients make him a truly outstanding specialist. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch medical care.

Kashmala Khan

2023-01-26

Mr. Goutos and his team did an amazing job reversing a scar I had on my forehead. This was a very old scar and had bothered for many years. The laser treatment and fat transfer procedure has changed my life and given me so much confidence. I would definitely recommend him, he is a fantastic and very skilled surgeon. Thank you so much!

Javier

2023-01-14

Mr Goutos and his team removed some lipomas from my arms. The initial consultation right through to the aftercare was professional, sensitive and genuine. Mr Goutos put me at ease right from the start, discussing my history and background and then discussing the various options for the incisions and sutures. The incisions were quick, efficient and professional. I felt completely at ease knowing I was in expert hands. The incisions were extremely neat and have closed and scared really well. I had a number of questions after the operation and one of the sutures became infected. Mr Goutos was quick to make an appointment for me, see me and deal with the infection and offered for me to see him again if the infection didn’t calm down. He was genuinely empathetic to my needs and took time to check each scare, explain things and assure me along the way. He didn’t at any point, make me feel I was asking silly questions or too many. I highly recommend Mr Goutos for his exceptional incisions and suturing as well as his professional conduct, caring approach and after care. The whole experience was smooth and easy and I am very grateful for what he has done for me.

Ieva Lihovida-Yarlett

2022-12-07

We came to see Dr Goutos a few month ago to remove invasive spider nevus on my 9 year old sons nose . After a lovely consultation with Dr Goutos , he suggested to do several laser treatment sessions. After a few sessions we already noticed a massive improvement. On the final laser treatment session the spider nevus was completely gone. Thank you to the Dr Goutos for tackling the problem so rapidly and with great results!

Amy Munson

2022-10-27

We took our 4yr old daughter to Mr Goutos following an accident which resulted in a small burn scar on her cheek. Mr Goutos gave us various options and we went for laser treatment. After 4 appointments the scar has gone! The care that Mr Goutos gave us was exceptional and so good with children. He made us feel very comfortable and confident in his ability. I would recommend him to anyone if they were looking for a doctor in that particular field. Can't thank him enough.