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Even the slightest skin condition, growth of hair in undesirable places, loss of hair where it’s really needed… these are all issues that lead to embarrassment and loss of self-esteem.
Use of Laser and PRP in treating dermatological issues and hair loss, has been practiced in the West for decades. Now, thanks to Asiri Central Hospital, these solutions are available to you, in an established & safe clinical environment, that has international accreditation. For better understanding on the topic, we spoke to Dr. Nayani Madarasinghe, Consultant Dermatologist.
The applications for lasers in aesthetic dermatology are numerous and are constantly being refined and developed. According to Dr. Madarasinghe, in Sri Lanka the following solutions are possible:
Imagine never having to tweeze, shave, wax or epilate ever again? Well, according to Dr. Madarasinghe, this is now totally possible. Using lasers, hair can now be permanently removed from any part of the body. The procedure takes 5-6 sessions over 2 to 3 months. Of course, the patient’s hair growth rate, thickness and also the body site would influence actual treatment plan.
Scar removal is an umbrella term that addresses varying skin calamities such as acne, surgical scars, remnants of chicken pox, unsightly birthmarks, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation and even vasodilation. Through the stimulation of collagen, visibility of scarring is vastly reduced improving the aesthetic appeal of the marred area.
At an initial consultation, through close analysis of the problem, the consultant will decide on the type of laser to be applied and approximately how many sessions would be required for a permanent solution, explains Dr. Madarasinghe. She cautions that results take time and depend on the depth of the scarring and the body site. Real results can take a minimum of six months, she says.
With time, our skin starts to lose its elasticity and before we know it we’re trying every anti-ageing product available, to battle laugh lines, crow’s feet and other tell-tale sign of age. Dr. Madarasinghe reveals that laser treatment yields good results in these cases, even after just one session.
We’ve all made mistakes and tattoos are a constant reminder of those bad decisions. If you think it’s time to let go, then luckily for you Asiri Central Hospital offers laser treatment for tattoo removal. According to Dr. Madarasinghe, despite a minimum of 5 sessions being prescribed, most patients are quite happy with the results after the third sitting.
Is laser treatment painful?
Dr. Madarasinghe claims there may be some mild discomfort or even pain but this depends on the type of laser required for the specific job. If the laser needs to penetrate deep into the skin tissue, a topical anaesthetic numbing cream is applied prior to procedure.
Are there side effects?
The side effects are very minimal with generally just a slight redness and swelling. The problem with dark Asian skin, she says, is people are prone to pigmentation after laser treatment, which is why strict sun protection is recommended both before and after. Of course none of these side effects are permanent, they’re transient and not at all unhealthy. There are absolutely no permanent side effects.
What’s the laser downtime?
In terms of scar removal, Dr. Madarasinghe tells her patients at Asiri Central Hospital to stay indoors for roughly a week post-treatment. However, with hair removal, patients can go back to work immediately after treatment. Medication such as antibiotics, serums and vitamins may be prescribed for use over a week, but a strict regimen of sun protection will have to be adhered to before and after any laser treatment.
Am I eligible?
Any patients with keloids or active skin infections will not be able to undergo laser treatment.
There’s no age range as long as the patient is able to comfortably tolerate the procedure. Of course, Dr. Madarasinghe does not recommend laser treatment for any purposes to pregnant or lactating mothers, as an additional precaution.
What is PRP treatment?
Made popular by Kim Kardashian, Platelet-Rich Plasma is a treatment where a small amount of the person’s own blood is taken to treat any one of the following problems:
A sample of blood is drawn from the patient and a concentration of platelets are centrifuged from it. The PRP is then injected into the problematic area. These platelets contain several growth factors which stimulate healing across several areas.
Dr. Madarasinghe highly recommends this form of treatment as it is VERY safe. The patient’s own blood is used with no additional drugs or chemicals, resulting in no risk of allergic reactions.
As you can’t always have it all, there is some pain involved with the PRP treatment. However, this would vary from patient to patient. Either way, a topical anaesthetic numbing cream is always applied beforehand. A sitting may take a little longer than laser treatment would, as the entire process takes place in one session – drawing of blood to re-injection. Dr. Madarasinghe explains that a minimum of 3-4 sessions will be necessary, followed by maintenance sessions for good results.
Dr. Madarasinghe confirms there won’t be any side effects with PRP, except for some mild redness and swelling for a few hours post treatment. Despite the multiple pricks, rest assured there won’t be any wound care necessary. She says she doesn’t even prescribe any medication afterwards.
With one treatment per month, results are usually visible in as little as 3 months.
A patient’s platelet count is important for successful treatment. Also, if you are prone to bleeding, you will not be allowed to undergo PRP treatment due to health risks. Again, Dr. Madarasinghe does not recommend it for pregnant or lactating mothers.
For more details call +94 772 533 641