Freckles

FRECKLE REMOVAL IN LOS ALTOS CA

Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Harry Mittelman, MD, is conveniently located in Los Altos. Dr. Mittelman is proud to serve those residing in Palo Alto, San Jose and the surrounding communities of California and offers expert laser resurfacing treatments to remove or fade freckles.

WHAT ARE FRECKLES?

Freckles, also known as ephelides, are small patches of brown color that can appear after a period of sun exposure. Individuals with lighter complexions tend to have more freckles than those with darker skin. Freckles tend to be found on the face, but they can appear on any areas exposed to sunlight, such as the arms, hands and legs. While some people might think that freckles are charming, in reality, they are evidence of sun damage. Freckles can fade, but there is no way of telling how long this may take. If an individual does not use sunscreen, their freckles can easily come back again through repeated sun exposure. As people age, freckles combine with the appearance of age spots, they are often deemed less attractive when this occurs.

THE CAUSE OF FRECKLES

The tendency to develop freckles is a recessive trait that is inherited from both parents. They are caused when uneven melanin distribution darkens with exposure to the sun. This process is no different from how the way skin becomes darker after prolonged sun exposure.The only difference is that the skin darkens unevenly. Children aged five to 15 are the ones who typically develop freckles.

Unfortunately, those who often develop freckles when they spend time in the sun are prone to sunburn and skin cancer. If you develop freckles easily, it is important that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to protect your skin.

TREATING FRECKLES WITH LASER COSMETIC SURGERY

It is possible to remove freckles with laser cosmetic surgery using a pulse-dye laser, or IPL®. During this procedure, the pigment in freckles will absorb the laser’s light. The light will then heat the pigment in the freckles until the pigment breaks into tiny particles. Your skin’s natural exfoliation process will then remove what is left of the darkened pigment. This treatment is very effective and is done without harming the surrounding skin. Even though a pulse-dye laser is often effective at removing freckles, it may take several treatments to completely remove them.

The procedure is very safe and causes very little pain. Because laser freckle removal surgery is non-invasive, you will be able to resume your normal day-to-day activities immediately after the procedure. However, your freckles may reappear with continued sun exposure.

DECIDING IF LASER FRECKLE REMOVAL IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Discuss your individual case with Dr. Mittelman to find out if laser freckle removal is a good option for your goals. You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have freckles that you find to be unattractive and wish to have removed. Dr. Mittelman will discuss your case and determine if your freckles will appear again with later sun exposure. If your freckles will most likely appear again, Dr. Mittelman may not recommend this treatment for your needs.

HOW MUCH DOES LASER FRECKLE REMOVAL COST IN SAN JOSE, CA?

Because laser freckle removal is considered cosmetic in nature, it most likely will not be covered by your insurance company. Be prepared to pay out-of-pocket for the procedure. If you require financial assistance, the staff at Dr. Mittelman’s practice can work with you regarding financing options.

Harry Mittelman, MD, is recognized as a pioneer in facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical or non-invasive cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery procedures, Dr. Mittelman provides his patients with exceptional skills and results that last. For more information on treatment for freckles or to schedule a private consultation at Dr. Mittelman’s office, please contact us today.We serve the entire Southbay and Bay Area including Los Altos, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, Mountain View, San Mateo, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and the surrounding areas.

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