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Phototherapy Brisbane
Some common skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can be treated with phototherapy, also known as light therapy. Light therapy is a noninvasive treatment that can be tailored to each individual’s needs. It can be suitable as part of a combination therapy or on its own if other treatments have not been effective.
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What is phototherapy?
Phototherapy uses specific wavelengths of UV light to noninvasively treat a variety of skin conditions. It works by penetrating the outer layers of the skin and slowing down the growth of affected skin cells.
It can reduce inflammation and symptoms that are commonly in conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Specifically, it can help to reduce the rapid skin cell turnover and inflammation characteristic of psoriasis, and reduce inflammation, itchiness, and the number of flare-ups in eczema.
Treatments will need to be personalised to suit the needs of each patient, considering factors such as the type and severity of the patient’s skin condition. Effective treatments may prevent the need for further treatments, such as medication, which may benefit patients who want to avoid these treatments for a variety of reasons.
Patients will usually need more than one light therapy treatment session, with treatment plans usually beginning at two to three sessions a week.
Who is a suitable candidate for phototherapy?
Suitable candidates for light therapy will need to be in good general health and not have any significant contraindications to treatment.
Suitability will also depend on the skin condition that each candidate will want to treat. For example, phototherapy for eczema may be performed slightly differently than phototherapy for psoriasis.
If treating eczema, treatment may be suitable patients with moderate to severe eczema that does not respond well to other treatments, such as topical treatments. If treating psoriasis, light therapy may be ideal for moderate to severe cases, especially when topical treatments are ineffective or impractical.
Sometimes, certain skin conditions can interfere with quality of life, causing significant discomfort, frequent infections or even pain. These candidates may be particularly suited to the treatment, provided that they do not have any contraindications.
Those with a history of photosensitivity disorders, a history of skin cancer or a high risk of skin cancer (due to genetics or extensive past UV exposure), may not be suitable due to the risk of triggering a reaction. Certain medications may also increase photosensitivity, making phototherapy less suitable for those who take these medications, unless adjustments can be made. Candidates who are pregnant or breastfeeding may also not be suitable for light therapy.
It’s always important to consider whether a candidate has realistic expectations for the results of the treatment. Light therapy will typically need more than one session and can take some time to show results. Candidates should be willing and able to commit to regular sessions to benefit from their treatment.
Before undergoing light therapy, every candidate will need to have a consultation at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane. Our dermatologist Dr Kate DeAmbrosis has the qualifications and experience to assess skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, and recommend a suitable treatment plan.
Do I need to prepare my skin for light therapy?
You will be provided with preparation instructions during your consultation if you need to follow them before your treatment.
Some candidates may need to stop taking certain medications or stop using certain skincare products that can increase photosensitivity.
It is also a good idea to avoid excessive sun exposure leading up to your treatment, and consistently stay hydrated.
How is the treatment performed?
Light therapy works by exposing the skin to carefully controlled wavelengths of UV light.
A treatment plan will consider skin sensitivity, the skin condition being treated, and other factors that will depend on each patient’s individual situation. A phototherapy plan will typically include how many treatment sessions will be targeted per week and how long the overall treatment may take. Essentially, the goal of the treatment will be to maximise its effectiveness while minimising possible complications.
During the treatment, patients will be required to wear specialised eyewear to protect their eyes from UV light. Sometimes, patients may also need to use a face shield or cover their face if the treatment area excludes the face, to avoid any unnecessary exposure.
Phototherapy is then performed by treating the affected skin with UV light, at a specific wavelength, that will be monitored closely throughout the session.
When you have your consultation, you can learn more about how the treatment will be performed, and what to expect on the day of your treatment.
What can I expect in terms of aftercare?
Shortly after light therapy, patients can experience skin redness, dryness, itching, and a sensation similar to mild sunburn. Sometimes, blisters may also form in the treated area.
Some aftercare steps will be explained during your consultation. These normally include avoiding UV exposure, keeping the skin clean with gentle products, and applying moisturisers or special creams. You may also be instructed to avoid undergoing other skin treatments in the area while your phototherapy treatment plan is being followed.
You should avoid itching or picking at the treated area, as this can cause irritation. If you do notice any signs that complications have occurred – for example, if you are experiencing a significant and persistent burning sensation, please contact our team and seek medical attention for advice.
Costs of phototherapy at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane
To be at its most effective and to minimise complications, phototherapy needs to be a highly personalised treatment, with tailored steps.
Each patient will have varying treatment plans, designed to treat their specific skin condition and consider a variety of personal factors (such as skin sensitivity and skin type).
Our team will provide you with a quote after you have discussed your treatment plan.
Medicare may cover a portion of your treatment costs if treatment is deemed medically necessary. For example, in severe cases where the condition interferes with daily life and wellbeing, phototherapy for eczema or phototherapy for psoriasis may attract Medicare eligibility.
To be eligible, patients will need to provide evidence supporting the medical necessity of the treatment, and follow Medicare’s application process.
If you want to learn more about treatment costs, please contact our team or begin the process of seeing one of our team members for an in-person consultation.
What potential complications can occur after the treatment?
Apart from the initial side effects of the treatment, such as redness, dryness, itching, peeling, and a sensation similar to mild sunburn or blisters, significant complications can typically be avoided with proper care and attention to detail.
Rarer complications may include pigmentation changes, such as hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening), an aggravation of the condition being treated, skin damage due to prolonged UV exposure, increased sensitivity to sunlight, or putting patients at a higher risk of triggering a reoccurrence of the condition after treatment.
A variety of measures will be put in place to prevent these complications, and even minimise the initial side effects of the treatment, when possible. For example, those with lighter skin types may be more suitable for a certain type of light therapy, which can be discussed during the initial consultation stage. Making adjustments, such as pausing medications before treatment, can also help to minimise complications.
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