The 980nm laser is a type of diode laser commonly used in medical aesthetics for vascular removal, particularly for the treatment of spider veins, telangiectasia, and other vascular lesions. The principle behind its effectiveness lies in its specific wavelength and its ability to target hemoglobin in the blood vessels.
Here's how the 980nm laser works for vascular removal:
1. **Absorption by Hemoglobin**: The 980nm wavelength of the laser is highly absorbed by hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. When the laser is applied to the skin, the hemoglobin in the targeted blood vessels absorbs the energy from the laser light.
2. **Selective Photothermolysis**: The absorbed laser energy converts into heat, causing coagulation and damage to the walls of the blood vessels. This process is known as selective photothermolysis, where the laser energy selectively targets the blood vessels while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
3. **Vascular Coagulation and Closure**: As the targeted blood vessels absorb the laser energy and heat up, the blood inside the vessels coagulates, leading to the closure of the vessels. This process effectively reduces or eliminates the appearance of the vascular lesions on the skin's surface.
4. **Body's Natural Healing Response**: Following treatment, the body's natural healing mechanisms work to gradually clear away the coagulated blood vessels. Over time, the treated vessels are reabsorbed and eliminated by the body's lymphatic system, resulting in a gradual fading of the vascular lesions.
5. **Safety and Precision**: The 980nm laser offers precise targeting of blood vessels without causing significant damage to surrounding tissues. Its high absorption by hemoglobin allows for effective treatment of superficial vascular lesions while minimizing the risk of adverse effects such as scarring or pigment changes.
6. **Treatment Parameters**: Treatment parameters such as pulse duration, fluence (energy density), and spot size are carefully adjusted by the medical professional based on the size, depth, and location of the vascular lesions being treated, as well as the patient's skin type and medical history.
Overall, the 980nm laser for vascular removal offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution for addressing unwanted vascular lesions, providing patients with smoother, clearer skin and renewed confidence. As with any medical procedure, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if laser treatment is suitable for your specific needs and to ensure safe and effective results.