There are two surgical procedures that can lessen or even completely remove the small, map-like or spidery vessels (telangiectasia) that can result from the condition rosacea. Pulsed dye laser treatment uses an intense but gentle laser pulse whose wavelength has been matched to the color of the vessels being treated so that only these vessels absorb the heat of the laser light. During this absorption of the laser, which lasts a nanosecond, the vessel is destroyed with no damage to the tissue surrounding it, thus prohibiting dermal scarring.

Another electrical surgical procedure is called electrodessication, which uses an electric current introduced into the vessel by a very fine electrode or needle. The electric current then destroys only the vessel in which the needle has been inserted, thus also avoiding scarring of any surrounding tissue.

Of course, as with any type of surgery, there can be side effects and complications. It has been reported that pulsed dye lasers seem to worsen the symptoms of rosacea before the correction takes place, although not always. These procedures vary from individual to individual. Both are expensive and may require several treatments for best results. The results very often may not be permanent, compelling follow-up treatments at regular intervals.

Bibliography

1. www.acne-rosacea.co.uk/Rosacea%20Treatments.htm, “Rosacea Treatments.”

2. www.rosacea-treatment-clinic.com, “Acne Rosacea Treatment Therapies.”