What is laser treatment?
Laser treatment refers to the use of focused beams of light for both medical and cosmetic purposes. Using specialized equipment, a medical provider can direct lasers toward specific areas of your body, treating growths and scars without affecting the surrounding skin.
Laser treatment has a number of applications in podiatry, including:
- Removing plantar warts
- Removing plantar fibroma, knots that form on the bottom of the foot as part of a condition called Ledderhose disease
- Removing corns and calluses
- Reducing pain from Morton’s neuroma, a thickening of nerve tissue around the toes
- Reducing toe fungus while promoting healthy nail growth
Laser treatment can also improve the appearance of scars. Dr. Bocian is one of the only podiatrists in the area to offer Nd:YAG laser technology, one of the most powerful and versatile lasers available.
How can laser treatment help with lower extremity scars?
Your feet and ankles are especially prone to scars because they receive relatively low blood flow, especially if you have diabetes or other diseases that affect circulation and immune response. This interferes with healing and increases the likelihood of scarring.
Your socks and shoes, as well as the pressure you place on your feet by standing and walking every day, can irritate wounds. Small irritations such as blisters can eventually lead to scars.
Whether your scar is causing you discomfort or you simply dislike the way it looks, laser treatment can help.
What can I expect from laser treatment?
Laser treatment is a noninvasive outpatient procedure. The procedures vary somewhat depending on what you’re treating but consist of Dr. Bocian directing a wand that emits a laser over your skin.
Depending on the severity of your condition, including the number and size of your scars, you may need multiple treatments to get the results you’re looking for. Though laser treatment doesn’t get rid of scars, it can significantly reduce their appearance.
Laser treatment is safe for most people. However, if you have light sensitivity or take blood-thinning medications, there may be some risks involved. Dr. Bocian goes over your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for laser surgery.
To learn more about laser treatment, call the office of Darin A. Bocian, DPM, or use the online booking tool.
