Adult and Pediatric Laser Clinics

At the UMass Memorial Medical Center Laser Clinic, we treat a number of conditions of the skin and hair through precise laser targeting. This method of treatment allows us to pinpoint exact locations for more efficient treatment.

Adult Conditions We Treat:

• Vascular lesions (hemangioma, port wine stain, telangiectasia, rosacea)
• Hair (hirsutism, hidradenitis suppurativa)
• Psoriasis
• Vitiligo
• Tattoos
• Warts
• Scarring
• Wrinkles
• Benign pigmented lesions

Pediatric Conditions We Treat:

• Port wine stains
• Hemangiomas
• Spider angiomas
• Pilonidal disease
• Excess hair
• Café au lait macules
• Traumatic tattoos
• Epidermal nevi

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a laser?

Laser stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” A laser is a specialized light delivery device that can be used to target certain molecules in the skin.

What are the different types of laser?

Lasers differ based on the wavelength of light and how long it takes to deliver that light to the skin. Lasers used at our clinic include:

• V-beam laser: used for vascular lesions, psoriasis, warts and scars
• Gentle Max laser:  used for hair removal and vascular lesions
• Sciton laser: used for wrinkles, scars and facial resurfacing
• Excimer laser: used for vitiligo, psoriasis and dermatitis
• Q-switched Ruby laser: used for tattoos and benign pigmented lesions
• Q-switched Nd:YAG laser: used for tattoos

What are the side effects of laser treatment?

Side effects from laser treatment can vary depending on the type of laser use and the condition being treated. They can include:

• Temporary pain, swelling, redness or bruising
• Lighter or darker discoloration of skin
• Rarely, lasers may cause blistering, burning or scarring

Is sedation available? 

We can perform laser treatments with varying degrees of sedation, including general anesthesia, in the adjacent Day Surgery unit. 

At what age do you start treating port wine stains on pediatric patients?

We like to start very early such as 3 to 6 weeks of age for the best results.