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Laser therapy for skin lesions

Laser Therapy for Skin Lesions
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Laser treatment for skin lesions: Overview

Laser treatment uses a highly focused beam of light. This high-intensity light is used to shrink or destroy skin lesions like pre-cancers (actinic keratosis). With lasers, there is usually less bleeding, swelling, and scarring. Healing is quicker, and you are less likely to get an infection.

Several different types of lasers are used to treat skin lesions, including the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser.

Why is laser treatment for skin lesions done?

Laser treatment may be used to treat an actinic keratosis. It can also be used to treat things like warts and some birthmarks.

How well does laser treatment for skin lesions work?

How well laser treatment works for skin lesions depends on things like what kind of lesion is being treated. It can also depend on what type of laser is used, your age, and your skin tone.

Precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses may go away after one treatment, but they can come back. Other lesions, like large birthmarks, may need several treatments and may not go away completely.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.