Excel V+ Laser Treatments
Professor Mark Ashton
MB., BS. MD. FRACS (Plas)
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Professor Mark Ashton is a Melbourne-based plastic surgeon. He is chair of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Epworth Freemasons Hospital, former Head of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Royal Melbourne Hospital (2001 – 2016), and is one of Australia’s most respected and internationally renowned plastic surgeons.
The following information is designed to help you understand our process for Excel V+ Laser treatment, including assessment and suitability, and will emphasise essential information to consider before proceeding with this treatment.
AHPRA registration number – MED0001135718
Excel V+ Laser – Melbourne
What does Excel V+ Laser Treat?
- Rosacea and age spots
- Spider and Reticular Veins
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Mild to moderate acne and acne Scars
- Red surgical scars
- Freckles
- Cherry angiomas (red dots)
ASSESSMENT
Prior to treatment, you will be assessed for suitability of treatment, which includes discussing your concerns, assessment of your skin, and clinical photos. You will also be provided information regarding suitable treatment options, a financial quote, and an informed consent form, which must be signed prior to treatment being conducted.
HOW DOES EXCEL V+ WORK?
Excel V+ laser is used for vascular and pigmentation treatments. This laser system combines dual wavelengths (1064 and 532) to target the haemoglobin pigment in red blood cells, and melanin pigment in melanocytes and keratinocytes, at different depths of the skin.
When treating vascular lesions, the heat produced causes photocoagulation destroying the abnormal blood vessels.
When treating skin pigmentation lesions, the laser light is absorbed by the melanin pigment within the skin cells, and sheds and flakes off within 1 to 2 weeks.
Excel V+ laser is delivered through a hand piece applied directly onto the skin of the face and/or body.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE REQUIRED?
The number of treatments recommended will vary based on your skin condition and how your body responds. Your skin will need to be assessed, and a treatment plan will be provided.
IS THE TREATMENT PAINFUL?
Depending on the procedure performed, a cooled tip will be in contact with your skin to protect and provide comfort to the treatment area. The treatments are reasonably quick, and a cooling mask will be applied to your face following treatment.
RECOMMENDATIONS POST TREATMENT
- SPF 50+ broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen must be worn on the treated areas at all times
- Avoid excessive heat for 1 to 2 days – such as spas, saunas, steam baths
- For face treatments – avoid using skincare with active ingredients for 7 days post treatment – such as retinol, toners, exfoliants and chemical peels. Make up can be applied post treatment
- Use a mild cleanser and moisturiser for the first 2 weeks following laser treatment
- Do not apply makeup for the first 24 – 48 hours. If you do wish to apply makeup after this time, use mineral-based makeup only, and avoid oil-based makeup
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS / DOWNTIME?
Common side effects include:
- Swelling – in full face treatments swelling will peak 24 to 48 hours post treatment
- Skin Discolouration – treated brown spots will darken then slough off in 3 to 5 days
- Redness
- Bruising
Rare Complications include:
- Burns
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Scarring (change in skin texture)
- Loss of hair
ROSACEA
Before and After 2 Treatments
Photos courtesy of H. Heise, M.D.
Age Spots
Before and After 2 Treatments
Photos courtesy of K. Stankiewicz, M.D.
Veins
Before and After 2 Treatments
Photos courtesy of H. Heise, M.D.
Please contact Professor Ashton’s Rooms for further advice regarding Excel V + Laser Treatments
