Preparation
Before each treatment, patients must be informed in detail by the treating physician about the upcoming treatment. All possible risks must be explained and weighed up. The decision for laser therapy must be made individually for each patient, because it depends on the type of treatment and the patient himself. As a rule, it is an outpatient therapy, i.e. it is carried out in a practice or you can leave the hospital on the day of the procedure. In most cases, a blood sample is not necessary either.
Procedure
The course of a laser treatment also depends on the underlying disease and the extent of the application. A laser therapy is usually performed on an outpatient basis in a medical practice. In some cases, the treated area is locally anesthetized beforehand with an analgesic, since laser application can be very painful.
Anesthesia is not necessary in most cases. Both the patient and the doctor must wear protective goggles, as the laser can damage the eyes. By means of a special device the laser beam is shot at the body part.
Usually, this is not a continuous beam, but a high number of shots. Usually several treatment appointments are necessary. After the treatment the skin needs special care.
Risks
Laser therapy generates heat, which can lead to injuries of the skin. Incorrect use can cause burns or small wounds that can become infected. In addition, scars, redness, blisters or oedemas can occur.
A laser has negative effects on the eye in particular, which is why protective goggles must always be worn. Furthermore, it can cause severe pain. Care should be taken that the treating physician has already performed some laser therapies and has a qualified certificate.
Is it painful?
The application of a laser to the skin is often a painful treatment. However, it depends on the location of the treatment. The application of the light rays leads to small stabbing pains, similar to a small electric shock. A single shot of the laser beam is not painful, but since a large number of laser shots are applied, this can cause pain over time. Sclerotherapy of veins is also painful, which is why it is often performed under local anesthesia.