Electrocuagulation FAQ’s
1. What Are Vascular Blemishes?
Broken capillaries and spider veins are classified in medical terminology as “telangiectasias.” There are many different names associated with these lesions, including “Blood Mole,” “Blood Dot,” as well as the cosmetic/aesthetic term, “Couperose Skin.” Blood moles resemble a red dot or patch and can appear nearly anywhere on the body. Capillaries under the eye or around on the nose as well as the neck or upper chest are vascular blemishes treatable here at Natural Touch Aesthetics and Laser Hair Removal Clinic.
2. How Did I Get Them?
Heredity seems to be the most popular theory. It is noted that those with fair skin have a higher incidence of telangiectasia while more olive complexions have few problems. Other contributing theories include age, hormones, sun exposure, alcohol consumption and other predisposing medical conditions. Trauma to the skin may also cause telangiectasia to develop.
3. What Are Skin Tags?
A skin tag is a bit of skin that projects from the surrounding skin. They are not dangerous and are, in fact, very common occurring in all shapes and sizes. They may be smooth or irregular, flesh colored or more deeply pigmented. The tag can be slightly raised or have a stalk (a peduncle) so that the skin tag hangs from the skin. Skin tags, no matter where they are located on the body can be treated in minutes and fall of within 3-4 days.
4. How Did I Get Them?
The cause of skin tags is not known; however, their tendency to develop is inherited (runs in families). They are more common with age beginning in middle age and they tend to be somewhat more prevalent in women than men.
5. How Can I Get Rid of Vascular Blemishes and Skin Tags?
Whatever their origin, these vascular blemishes can be removed easily and permanently with an electrocoagulation system. A fine tipped sterile probe is placed on the surface of the blemish. Low level radio frequency (RF) and direct current (DC) is passed through the probe to the vessel. The blood in the tiny vessel is clotted or coagulated and stops flowing. With the proper “post” treatment care the vessel is naturally absorbed into the surrounding tissue and typically within three to four weeks will disappear. Skin tags will fall in within days.
6. What Other Methods Are Used?
Many physicians use a hyfrecation device. A hyfrecator applies a high voltage of RF current to the surface of the skin. This method tends to be very painful and often scars surrounding tissue. Another method is laser treatment. Though painful and very expensive,
the appropriate laser can be quite effective in treating vascular blemishes. Physicians sometimes remove skin tags by cutting them off with a scalpel or scissors, or by freezing them off.
7. How Long Does the Treatment Take?
Most blemishes are removed in seconds. Depending on the number of capillaries most conditions can be successfully and permanently treated in one 10 to 15 minute treatment. Most skin tags fall off within days of being treated.
8. Is the Procedure Safe?
Typically, telangiectasias are very superficial and can be treated with a sterile, disposable probe. Electrocoagulation has been used in cosmetics safely for years to remove vascular blemishes at Natural Touch Aesthetics and Laser Hair Removal Clinic St. Catharines Niagara. .
9. Does It Hurt?
Some experience a “pinprick” sensation that can be mildly uncomfortable. However, when a topical anesthetic cream is applied to the area most of the discomfort is taken away.
10. What About “Post” Treatment Care?
Electrocoagulation of the tiny vessel stops blood flow. You need to pay attention not to disturb the treated vessels for 24 hours. Undue stress could cause renewed blood flow and the vessel will not dry up and be absorbed. With proper care, the treated vessel will tend to look darker the next day. This is normal and a good sign that the vessel was properly treated.