Excel V+

Excel V+ Laser by Cutera targets and helps erase spider veins, rosacea, and other types of hyperpigmentation caused by vascular lesions. One 15 to 20-minute treatment session results in a noticeable reduction of discoloration, aging and sun damage.

Unlike traditional skin resurfacing treatments, Excel V+ is a minimally invasive procedure that requires no downtime. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after the session, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules. It primarily treats vascular concerns, but also incorporates laser technology capable of treating wrinkles, fine lines, scars, and age spots. 

If you are interested in experiencing the transformative effects of Excel V+, consult one of our highly experienced aesthetic nurses or  board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Specialists in Marin County. The PSS team keeps current with the latest advancements in medical aesthetics to provide the very best result for our patients. 

Contact our office at (415) 925-2880 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards achieving smooth and vein-free legs and a radiant and rejuvenated complexion. You can also browse through our blog to get a good idea of how we approach all of our procedures. 

Before and After Photos

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All About Excel V+  

The Excel V+ laser is engineered to target very thin, tiny blood vessels within the skin that cause certain types of redness and various forms of hyperpigmentation. As the laser beam hits the skin, it seals off the unsightly vein, and the blood coagulates and breaks down, dissolving the blood vessel itself. 

The device also revitalizes the skin using laser light to cause micro injuries on the lower layer of the skin, the dermis. These micro injuries increase Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), proteins that are responsible for signaling skin repair and regeneration. 

The increase of these proteins leads to the formation of new fibroblast cells that have the ability to produce more collagen and elastin– proteins that are vital for skin youthfulness and glow. To be more specific, collagen promotes skin structure while elastin allows the skin to recoil with ease. 

The fibroblasts create hyaluronic acid, a substance that helps to maintain cell hydration. Laser light, in general, heals the skin from within and has unique advantages that topical treatments can’t offer. 

Excel V+ Treatment Modalities

A laser beam is concentrated light of a specific wavelength. A laser specialist can customize the Excel V+ to two wavelengths, making the device safe for all skin types and able to address over 20 different skin conditions. 

The 532 nm light is able to treat more superficial vascular concerns such as rosacea, spider veins, redness, and inflammation nearer to the surface of the skin. The 1064 nm treats darker forms of hyperpigmentation, larger, protruding veins in the legs and/or face, and a condition called venous lakes that usually occur around the lips. Longer wavelengths of light are capable of penetrating deeper into the skin. They’ve also been proven to be safer for darker skin types since they prevent the risk of hypopigmentation, a type of unwanted lightening of the skin ⁽¹⁾

Excel V+’s laser is also considered non-ablative, meaning that it increases fibroblasts in the dermis, but it does not affect the surface epidermis. Patients heal much quicker and experience much less discomfort with nonablative lasers. ⁽²⁾

CoolView and Genesis V Handpieces

The laser specialist will choose  the most appropriate  handpiece to administer laser light. Two different handpieces allow our expert to customize the treatment for your specific concerns. The CoolView features spot size adjustments and a sapphire cooling system for patient comfort. The Genesis V uses two types of energy to stimulate microvasculature, thereby stimulating collagen growth and reducing wrinkles. Excel V+ can adapt and apply precise light to very specific areas, further minimizing side effects after the procedure. 

Other Benefits of the Excel V+ Laser 

In addition to treating vascular lesions and irregularities, Excel V+’s non-invasive laser therapy offers benefits for individuals seeking skin rejuvenation. Patients see a significant reduction in: 

How is Excel V+ More Advanced Than Excel V? 

As an updated version of the Excel V, the Excel V+ boasts 50% more power. The Green Genesis setting offers a means of treating red and brown hyperpigmentation at the same time while utilizing the same wavelength. This cuts down on procedure time and allows the laser specialist to treat larger areas with more ease. The CoolView handpiece also features a wider window than its predecessor. 

Candidates for Excel V+

ExcelV+ is appropriate for virtually every skin type. It reduces or completely eliminates vascular irregularities, redness, and other effects of sun damage. An exception for patient screening are those with active psoriasis, severe acne, keloid scars, vitiligo, or scleroderma. These patients should avoid all types of laser treatment. People who have undergone acne treatments such as Accutane should wait at least one year before considering laser treatment, as it can lead to scarring. Those who take medications that increase their sensitivity to light should speak to a doctor about making any adjustments. 

Personal Consultation

With our one-on-one skin health evaluation, you can expect personalized treatment recommendations that align with your desired outcome. Your provider will discuss the various skin treatment options available to you, explaining the benefits and potential risks associated with each approach. 

Whether you are considering a non-surgical procedure, such as Excel V+, or a more invasive treatment, our team will recommend the most appropriate treatments to achieve your desired results. To schedule your personalized consultation with one of our experienced  aesthetic nurses at PSS in Greenbrae, please contact our office at (415) 925-2880. 

We also offer virtual consultations for those who are unable to visit our practice in person. Our staff is ready to assist you and ensure you receive the highest level of care throughout your journey towards enhanced beauty and confidence.

Preparation

In preparation for your laser appointment, protect your skin by applying 30 SPF sunscreen daily. Sun damage from ultraviolet rays can make your skin more vulnerable to developing hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation. ⁽³⁾ Your laser specialist will prescribe you an antiviral medication if you have ever experienced a viral outbreak in the treatment area. As a precaution, the specialist may prescribe you hydroquinone cream in order to prevent further hyperpigmentation after the procedure. During your consultation, you’ll be informed on what skin type you are, according to the Fitzpatrick Scale. 

The Fitzpatrick Scale 

Excel V+ is capable of providing effective treatment for any skin tone, but the settings must be adjusted to suit the specific needs of the patient. 

Excel V+ Laser Procedure

Before arriving, remove all makeup in the treatment area. You may be asked to apply numbing cream prior to the appointment to ensure the treatment is comfortable.  Before you begin your specialist will adjust the device to treat your skin type and specific concerns. 

The appropriate handpiece is chosen and applied directly to your skin to administer a pulse of laser light. Several passes may be necessary over the  treatment area. 

For patient comfort, the treatment protocol includes numbing cream, and adjustable cooling settings. After treating the area healing ointment is applied to prevent infection and promote healing. 

Recovery and Results

After your session, you’ll likely notice further redness and swelling, but this will resolve in a few days. If you have significant swelling, you may need to consult your nurse. 

Many patients see remarkable improvement after just one session. The best results are seen with a series of three treatments. It takes time to see results as the body repairs the damage and builds collagen. If you book multiple treatments, they are scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart to allow your skin to heal effectively. 

Cost of Excel V+ in Marin County

Determining the cost of any laser treatment, including the Excel V+ procedure, requires careful consideration of various factors. At PSS, we understand that each patient’s needs and goals are unique, and as such, the cost of the Excel V+ treatment will vary from person to person. 

To learn more about the cost of this laser treatment, or to schedule your personal consultation, please contact our office at (415) 925-2880 or request your virtual consultation today.

References

1. Cole P, Hatef D, Kaufman Y, Pozner J. Laser Therapy in Ethnic Populations. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2009;23(03):173-177. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1224796 
2. Loesch MM, Somani AK, Kingsley MM, Travers JB, Spandau DF. Skin resurfacing procedures: new and emerging options. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2014;7:231-241. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S50367 
3. Prohaska J, Talel Badri. Laser Complications. Nih.gov. Published April 4, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532248/