More and more cosmetic laser treatment horror stories are hitting the headlines –the latest being that of UK newsreader Kate Silverton who was forced to take time off work and ended up with scarring on her face thanks to laser surgery.

Many people are born with birthmarks and these birthmarks can vary in size, colour and location. Birthmarks are generally described as a mark on the skin that is unique to the individual that does not quickly disappear.

Most birthmarks are fairly small and are hidden by clothing however some birthmarks are on more prominent areas of the body. Some birthmarks can also pose health risks therefore some people may seek out the advice of a cosmetic surgeon with a view to getting the birthmark removed.

Laser vein treatment is when a laser is shone onto the problem areas. The laser produces a high-intensity burst of light which gives off a lot of heat energy. This energy gets absorbed by different tissues, depending on how the laser is calibrated. The light will usually pass through the skin and destroy the cells underneath the skin such as the blood filled vessels which give that veined look.

Procedure: Smooths the face and smooth fine wrinkles using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device that treats layers of damaged skin. Softens lines around the eyes and mouth and minimizes facial scars and unevenly pigmented areas. 
Length:  A few minutes to 1 hour. May require more than 1 session. 
Anesthesia: Local with sedation, or general. 
In/Outpatient: Usually outpatient, unless combined with other surgical procedures that require hospitalization. 
Side Effects: Temporary swelling, discomfort. Lightening of treated skin. Acute sun sensitivity. Increased sensitivity to makeup. Pinkness or redness in skin that may persist for up to 6 months. 
Risks: Burns or injuries caused by laser heat. Scarring. Abnormal changes in skin color. Flare-up of viral infections (��?cold sores��?) and other infections (rare). 
Recovery: 2 weeks: Back to work
                4 to 6 weeks: Strenuous activities
                6 months: Complete fading of redness. Sun exposure must be limited for several months
Duration of Results: Variable - new wrinkles may form as skin ages.