Photodynamic Therapy: Renew Your Skin’s Health and Radiant Appearance
If healthy, glowing skin is your goal, you aren’t alone, but it can be hard to maintain that vibrancy as we age. Conditions like skin cancers, acne, psoriasis, sun damage, and other infections can get in the way of that goal. To treat these conditions, versatile photodynamic therapy can help restore the skin’s health and overall appearance. At Valley Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, our experts perform photodynamic therapy for both cosmetic and medical reasons that can put healthy, radiant skin within your reach.
At Valley Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, our goal is to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin and make informed decisions about your treatment options. Dr. Kyle Sanniec, a highly respected, board-certified plastic surgeon with over a decade of experience, offers innovative photodynamic therapy treatments at his state-of-the-art offices in Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ. His team delivers professional, personalized treatments to help you look and feel your best.
Are you interested in learning how photodynamic therapy with Dr. Kyle Sanniec can help restore your skin’s health and appearance? Contact us at (623) 937-8969 or complete our online form to request your consultation to begin your journey today!
What Is Photodynamic Therapy, and How Does It Work?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses light and a light-sensitive drug to treat skin cancers or conditions like acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and sun damage. A photosensitizer medication is applied to the area and exposed to light. This process kills damaged and harmful cells. PDT is less invasive than surgery, can be repeated on the same site, usually causes minimal scarring, and is ideal for hard-to-reach areas. However, it may cause mild pain or skin reactions in some individuals.
First, a photosensitizing drug is applied to the skin or injected into the body, depending on the location of the targeted tissue. Then, the drug is allowed to accumulate in the target cells for a specific period, anywhere between 1 to 18 hours, depending on the condition being treated.
After the drug accumulates in the cells, the treatment area is exposed to a specific light wavelength, which activates the drug and initiates the reaction. Once the drug reacts with oxygen, it destroys the targeted, damaged cells.
Photodynamic Treatment Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: PDT is generally a non-invasive procedure, often eliminating the need for surgery or extended recovery periods.
- Minimal Scarring: PDT can reduce scarring compared to other treatment options, making it suitable for areas where preserving cosmetic appearance is essential.
- Targeted Treatment: PDT can specifically target abnormal cells, thereby minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
What Can PDT Treat?
As a versatile treatment, PDT can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Skin Cancers: PDT is an effective treatment for precancerous skin lesions, such as actinic keratosis, and certain precancer and skin cancers.
- Other Cancers: PDT can be used in treating malignancies located in various regions of the body, including the head and neck, bladder, and lungs.
- Eye Conditions: PDT is employed in the management of wet, age-related macular degeneration.
- Acne and Other Conditions: PDT is also applied in the treatment of acne, psoriasis, and certain viral and fungal infections.
What to Expect from Photodynamic Therapy in Glendale, AZ?
Come to your procedure with clean, moisturized skin. Before beginning your procedure, our experts will clean your skin, and Dr. Sanniec will review the details of your procedure.
During the PDT procedure, you’ll experience:
- Application of Photosensitizer: A photosensitive medication, such as aminolaevulinic acid (ALA), is applied to the specified treatment area.
- Incubation Time: The medication will remain on the skin for a designated period, typically ranging from 1 to 18 hours, to ensure absorption by the target cells.
- Light Activation: Following the incubation period, a specific type of light, generally blue or red, is directed at the treatment area for activation.
- Sensation: Patients may experience sensations such as stinging, tingling, or burning during the exposure to light.
After Photodynamic Therapy Treatment
Following photodynamic therapy, your skin may be red, swollen, and may peel or scale. The treated area may be itchy, or painful. As your skin heals, these effects will gradually subside over a week.
Photodynamic therapy does not require downtime, but it’s crucial to avoid sunlight and bright lights as your skin will be very sensitive for 48 to 72 hours.
Dr. Sanniec may recommend over-the-counter medications and cold compresses to alleviate discomfort and ensure a healthy recovery. Contact Dr. Sanniec and his staff with questions or concerns.
When Will I See My Scottsdale, AZ, Photodynamic Therapy Results?
Depending on the extent of your photodynamic therapy treatment and the skin condition being treated, you may experience redness or discoloration that may last a week. You may start to experience improvements to your skin’s appearance within days or weeks. As your body produces more collagen and elastin, you’ll continue to see your skin grow smoother, clearer, and healthier.
Some patients will see results after a single treatment, but others may need 2 to 3 treatments scheduled 8 weeks apart, depending on the initial condition of the skin.
To maintain your results, it’s important to thoroughly follow all aftercare instructions, including using proper skincare and sun protection.
Why Choose Valley Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Glendale, AZ?
Dr. Kyle Sanniec is a board-certified plastic surgeon who brings a meticulous and patient-focused approach to every treatment. With over a decade of experience in aesthetics and a deep understanding of skin health, Dr. Sanniec and his team provide expert guidance and safe, effective skincare solutions. With convenient locations in Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, you’ll receive personalized care in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
Dr. Kyle Sanniec
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Authenticity. Integrity. Honesty. These characteristics are the foundation of Dr. Kyle Sanniec’s practice. With Midwestern values of hard work and humility, Dr. Sanniec sees himself as “the regular person’s plastic surgeon.” Dr. Sanniec focuses on delivering elite-level plastic surgery to patients who never thought they would get plastic surgery—the woman who wants to feel better in a bathing suit after her third kid or the man who wants the reflection in the mirror to match who he feels like inside.
Ready to Learn More? Schedule Your Photodynamic Therapy Consultation Today
Renew your skin’s health and appearance and boost your confidence with photodynamic therapy in Scottsdale, AZ. With photodynamic therapy, Dr. Kyle Sanniec and his expert team can help you restore your look and the overall health of your skin.
Schedule your consultation or call (623) 937-8969 today at one of Dr. Sanniec’s offices in Scottsdale, Mesa, or Glendale to discover how photodynamic therapy can benefit you.
