Hi,
I'm new to the forum and have a lot of questions I was hoping someone could help me with. I have read a lot of the postings on V beam already but still have some more questions. Please feel free to redirect me if my questions have been answered elsewhere.
I was dx with rosacea 4-5 years ago and had 5 V beam treatments (~2 months apart) at that time. I did not see any results. I had a couple of small bruises after the last 3 treatments but never any swelling beyond the day of treatment and was able to go back to work immediately. I now have a new dermatologist and asked him if the Gemini laser would be an option for me since the V beam didn't seem to work. He told me V beam is still the best option for my issues (permanent redness on forehead, chin, cheeks and nose and small visible blood vessels around the nose and cheeks) so I decided to try it again. I had my first treatment 4 days ago. I was shocked when I woke up the day after; my face was completely deformed and swollen (but only minor redness and no bruising). I don't know the specifics of my treatment but the derm told me it was a very aggressive treatment. It is now day 4 and the swelling is not improving much. I have huge bags under my eyes and I'm freaking out! Is there a chance it could be permanent? I know supposedly the V beam does not damage surrounding tissue but this can't be good for you? There must be some major tissue damage to cause this kind of swelling and trauma
I did not request any time off from work because I have not needed it in the past but I clearly do now. I realize it varies from person to person but how long does this swelling typically last (if I decide to go for more treatments and need time off from work)? Are we talking a few more days or weeks? Will later treatments of equal intensity require similar healing time or can I expect to heal faster/slower with subsequent treatments? Despite the swelling I believe I can see some results but when should I see the full effect of the treatment? Will the results improve or diminish with time? Do you see the most significant improvement after the first treatment vs. later treatments?
Lots of questions, I know..... I probably have more, but I can't think of any at the moment. I feel like I need more information before I decide to continue with treatments.
Thanks!!!