Frequently Asked Questions

What laser treatment is right for me?

There are many lasers on the market today which are excellent for treating a wide variety of skin conditions. These lasers, in properly trained hands, can be used to treat many bothersome and/or embarrassing skin conditions. At The Laser Institute of Pinehurst there are multiple lasers that can be used to treat Excess Hair, Wrinkles, Age Spots, Rosacea , Spider Veins, Adult and Teenage Acne, PortWine Stains, Benign Moles and Psoriasis.  We are able to treat these conditions and more, safely and with little to no down time. With such a wide variety of lasers available it is important to consult with an experienced skin care specialist who can recommend the right laser and right treatment for you.

Are Laser Treatments Painful?

Laser treatments can be performed with slight discomfort and minimal to no pain. Tolerance of pain varies greatly from person to person. Most patients may feel a slight discomfort with some procedures and therefore we offer a topical anesthetic that is applied under the supervision of a physician.

Who Can Perform Laser Treatments?

Each state in the United States is regulated by multiple medical boards that govern practice standards. The North Carolina Medical Board's position statement states that "Laser surgery should be performed only by a physician or by a licensed health care practitioner working within his or her professional scope of practice and with appropriate medical training functioning under the supervision, preferably on-site, of a physician or by those categories of practitioners currently licensed by this state to perform surgical services." The statement further enunciates that "it is the position of the Board that good medical practice requires that each patient be examined by a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner licensed or approved by this Board prior to receiving the first laser hair removal treatment and at other times as medically indicated. The examination should include a history and a focused physical examination. Where prescription medication such as topical anesthetics are used, the Board expects physicians to follow the guidelines set forth in the Board’s Position Statement titled “Contact with Patients Before Prescribing.“ When medication is prescribed or dispensed in connection with laser hair removal, the supervising physician shall assure the patient receives thorough instructions on the safe use or application of said medication." It is important to be aware of the Medical Board's position statements and to be aware of whether the location where you are receiving laser treatments is following these guidelines.

Where should I receive laser treatments?

Questions to ask when choosing a laser treatment center should include:

1. Who will perform the laser treatment?
2. Will the same person be performing the laser treatment on each visit or will I have to see a different person each time?
3. What are the qualifications and experience of the person performing the treatment?
4. How long has the center been in business?
   

The cost of the procedures is important but should not be the final deciding factor in your choice of laser centers.Visit the center, meet with the physician and staff and ask for a tour of the facility? Then ask your self:

1. Am I comfortable with the physician and staff?
2. Was the staff professional?
3. Was the staff confident?
4. Was the facility neat and clean?
5. And again, Am I comfortable here?
   

Is Botox right for me?

Botox Cosmetic is indicated for the treatment of frown lines between the brows. These wrinkles can make you look tired, stressed, even unapproachable when you really are not. For a fresher, younger look, Botox may be right for you.

How can I learn more about laser treatments, dermal injectables and skin care

The American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery www.aslms.org
The Laser Institute of Pinehurst
 www.pinehurstlaser.com.
The American Academy of Family Physicians
www.aafp.org
Allergan
www.botox.com
www.latisse.com
www.juvederm.com
Bioform
www.radiesse.com


For more information on what procedures are right for you,
Contact The Laser Institute of Pinehurst to schedule your No-Obligation Consultation.

910-295-1130

Ofelia Melley, M.D.

Copyright © The Laser Institute of Pinehurst 2008