IPL at Hubbard Plastic Surgery
Everyone at Hubbard Plastic Surgery understands that you want noticeable improvements with as little downtime as possible. That's why we are proud to offer "Intense Pulsed Light" or IPL in Virginia Beach. This sophisticated treatment addresses many aspects of aging – including age spots and dilated or "broken" blood vessels – with virtually no downtime. Additionally, IPL can be used to treat areas of the body such as the neck, hands, and chest.
Our skin care specialist Denise Kail, RN has helped many men and women in Virginia Beach considering IPL. With her experience and skill, she can customize the proper IPL treatment for your skin concerns. Request a consultation online or contact our office by calling (757) 687-1900 to discuss your options.
Meet Dr. Hubbard
Learn why men and women in Virginia Beach trust the surgical expertise of board-certified plastic surgeon
Dr. Thomas Hubbard.
Is IPL for Me?
IPL is frequently used by individuals with skin irregularities, such as discoloration caused by sun damage. Women who have suffered from hyperpigmentation due to pregnancy or menopause can also benefit, as can some people with red scars, birthmarks and broken capillaries.
During Your Procedure
Skin care specialist Denise Kail will tailor your specific IPL treatment to your skin concerns. Typically, anesthetic is not required for this procedure and there is very little to no pain involved. A handheld device emitting a high-intensity light beam is directed toward the treatment area and may cause a slight prickling sensation on the skin, which is not painful.
Recovery and Healing
Because IPL treatments are non-ablative (meaning that the procedure does not damage the epidermis), there is usually no downtime required. However, some people may experience redness, itching, or even a slight stinging sensation post-treatment. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after IPL but are encouraged to apply SPF to protect the skin.
A Complete Makeover
Many people who have IPL treatments to reduce uneven pigmentation also choose facials and peels to refine their appearance and re-texturize their skin. Injectable fillers or BOTOX® Cosmetic can also be combined with IPL for anti-aging benefits.
You May Also Need to Know
Rarely in plastic surgery does a treatment modality come along that brings about so much exciting change with so little downtime as IPL. The specific concerns that this treatment addresses may be appropriate for those with sun damage: brown (age) spots of pigment, enlarged pores, and dilated "broken" blood vessels.
With 3 or 4 brief office visits spaced just 3 weeks apart, there can be quite a noticeable (and sometimes dramatic) reduction in brown pigment and dilated vessels. Yes, some aggressive skin care products can nicely reduce pigment, and we encourage these products as they bring about other benefits as well; however, appreciable results may take several months and these products may increase the possibility of skin irritation.
IPL and Rosacea
IPL systems are a relatively new addition to the arsenal of possible treatments for rosacea. Recent studies evaluating the efficacy of intense pulse light treatment on rosacea patients found that 83 percent of patients had less redness, 75 percent decreased flushing and improved skin texture, and 64 percent fewer acne break outs.
If we look at alternative treatments, there are lasers that treat rosacea; however, this mode of treatment often results in a considerably longer recovery with an increase in redness and swelling that lasts 2 to 3 days. There are also lasers which treat brown pigment, but they, too, require a moderate amount of recovery.
IPL can actually treat the brown pigment and vessels simultaneously with less recovery than either of the lasers. Unlike lasers, IPL treatments can also reduce pore size. Generally, lasers treat only one aspect of aging and require considerable recovery times from several days to 2 weeks or more. The IPL addresses multiple aspects of aging with minimal recovery. Most patients can go back to work immediately with only mild redness.
Please visit our photo gallery page to see examples of IPL treatment.
