Photodynamic Therapy in Cleveland
Conveniently located to serve Cleveland, Beachwood, Lake County, Westlake
Photodynamic therapy in Cleveland is a non-invasive option for treating skin conditions like acne, rosacea, skin cancer, and sun damage. The Parker Skin and Aesthetic Clinic uses this approach to address pre-cancerous lesions, early skin cancers, controlling oil production, and uneven pigmentation from UV exposure. PDT may be an excellent option if you’re looking for an effective way to achieve healthier, clearer skin.
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a three-step treatment used to treat mild or severe skin conditions through a photosensitizing drug and a light source to activate it. PDT destroys abnormal cells that cause actinic keratosis, a pre-cancerous condition, and can also minimize pores and reduce oil glands to treat acne, rosacea, and some scarring.
How Does Photodynamic Therapy Work?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a topical photosensitizing agent with a specific light source to target abnormal or damaged skin cells. The photosensitizer is applied to the treatment area during the procedure, making the cells more light-sensitive. After a specific activation time, a medical-grade light destroys the affected tissue while leaving healthy skin intact.
For patients seeking aesthetic improvements, PDT helps with acne by shrinking sebaceous glands, reducing oil production, and eliminating acne-causing bacteria. It also minimizes the appearance of sunspots and fine lines, offering photorejuvenation benefits for clearer, more youthful skin.
Conditions Treated with Photodynamic Therapy
- Skin cancer: PDT effectively treats actinic keratoses and some non-melanoma skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma.
- Acne: Photodynamic therapy helps reduce breakouts by controlling oil production and targeting the bacteria that cause inflammation.
- Sun damage and discoloration: PDT is useful for addressing uneven pigmentation, freckles, and photodamage from UV exposure.
- Rosacea and redness: Reduces vascular issues by targeting dilated blood vessels responsible for facial redness.
What Happens During Photodynamic Therapy?
During the PDT procedure, a topical photo sensitizer called Levulan is applied to the skin and left to incubate for several hours. Levulan is made of aminolevulinic acid (ALA), a natural substance found in the body.
After incubation, the Levulan is activated with a wavelength light source. During this part of the treatment, patients may experience warmth, tingling, heat, or burning sensations. After light activation, the treated area is washed, and patients can return home.
Photodynamic Therapy Recovery
There is no downtime for PDT. Patients can go home after the treatment. Most can return to work within one to two days after the procedure.
For the best results, patients may need up to five treatment sessions, depending on the severity of their condition and the aggressiveness of their treatment. Sessions are spaced two to five weeks apart and can be continued afterward to help maintain the initial results of the treatment.
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
- Non-invasive: No incisions or needles, making it an excellent outpatient option with minimal downtime.
- Therapeutic and aesthetic results: It addresses medical concerns, like actinic keratosis, and cosmetic issues, such as acne and uneven skin tone.
- Minimal discomfort: Patients may experience redness or peeling, but these side effects resolve in five to seven days.
- Long-term benefits: Helps regulate oil production and improve skin texture over time, especially with acne.
- Outpatient procedure: Treatments are quick, and patients can return home the same day, making PDT a convenient option for busy schedules.
Are There Risks?
Although PDT is a safe treatment option, specific risks and side effects are associated with any medical procedure. These risks and side effects may include redness, pigmentation, bruising, infection, and scarring. These side effects are usually mild and disappear in five to seven days.
How Much Does Photodynamic Therapy Cost?
Photodynamic therapy costs vary depending on the treatment area and the number of sessions needed. Treating pre-cancerous lesions or more extensive areas may require higher investment.
Why Choose The Parker Skin and Aesthetic Clinic?
At The Parker Skin and Aesthetic Clinic, we combine expertise with a focus on patient comfort. Our providers stay current with the latest treatment protocols for each procedure’s effectiveness and safety. Whether you’re seeking PDT for skin cancer or looking to improve your complexion, we will provide a treatment plan that meets your individual goals.
Our clinic is known for its welcoming environment and high-quality care. Schedule a consultation today to explore how photodynamic therapy in Cleveland can improve your skin’s health and appearance!
Schedule a Consultation
For more information on Photodynamic Therapy in Cleveland, schedule a consultation with us at The Parker Skin and Aesthetic Clinic. Our team will provide a comfortable and safe Photodynamic Therapy treatment plan to help you restore clearer, healthier skin.