Cutaneous Laser

The CoolTouch cutaneous laser is one of the latest laser technologies and is a non-invasive procedure available at the Duke Vein Clinic.

It was originally designed for the cosmetic treatment of aging facial skin and acne scarring and has been used extensively in nationwide cosmetic clinics. Its effectiveness in the treatment of spider veins has recently been discovered.

Because a laser is being used, protective eye goggles will be worn by the patient and treating personnel during treatment. A mild topical anesthetic cream may be applied prior to the treatment and during treatment a light spray to cool and protect the skin will be directed to the skin by the laser handpiece.

During treatment a unique type of laser energy is applied in a series of gentle pulses over the treatment area. The treatment has been described by patients as a “spray and snap.”

Aspects of cool touch laser treatment include:

• Performed in the office setting
• Quick and easy treatments
• Special handpiece technology allows gentle, precise and non-invasive treatment
• No down time -- resume normal activities immediately after treatment
• A minimal amount of skin blushing and puffiness for a short period of time may occur in the treated area
• Treated skin may be slightly drier after treatment and will improve with skin moisturizers

Possible risks to the CoolTouch laser include: risk of infection, mild blistering and possible temporary loss of sensation at the treatment site, and more rarely, slight scarring or pigment changes.

Physicians

Physicians offering this service include:

• Lawson, Jeffrey H.
• Mureebe, Leila
• Shortell, Cynthia E. K.

Locations

This service is available at:

• Duke Aesthetics Center
  3475 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
• Duke Vein Clinic
  Duke Clinic 2B, 200 Trent Drive, Durham, NC 27710