DOT (Dermal Optical Thermolysis) Therapy

DOT is a new and exciting way of reversing the appearance of aged or sun-damaged skin. Wrinkles, skin discoloration, sun-spots, skin laxity, and scars all may be reduced or eliminated with DOT therapy.  This innovative, new laser procedure takes less than one hour in our office and may restore a more youthful appearance.  While the aging process cannot be stopped, with proper care you can maintain your rejuvenated skin's appearance for many years. Because DOT Therapy delivers the desired outcome with minimal downtime, it is rapidly replacing traditional laser skin resurfacing as the treatment of choice for mild to moderate signs of photoaging and damaged skin.

During the procedure, a pattern of tiny scanned pulses of laser energy will be applied to your skin.  The DOT Therapy laser precisely creates thousands of microscopic holes (DOTs) in your skin, which induce immediate skin tightening and stimulate new collagen growth.  DOT therapy is designed to improve the skin's texture and tone, and to fight fine lines, deep wrinkles, and acne scars. 

Unlike older laser technology, DOT Therapy leaves islands of healthy tissue surrounding the microscopic dots  This enables your skin to heal more rapidly.  Immediately afterward, you will experience redness and some discomfort similar to a sunburn.  You may also experince some peeling after about three to four days.  In most cases, your skin will return to its normal appearance in five to seven days.  You should be able to wear make-up after the third day post- procedure.  

For your comfort, you will receive a topical and/or injected local anesthetic just prior to treatment.  Maximizing your comfort is our highest priority.  People with unusually low pain thresholds can ask for a sedative, but you will not be able to drive yourself.  We will need to be assured that you have a friend, relative, or taxi available to get you home safely.   Having said that, many people have no difficulty tolerating the procedure with minimal anesthetic. The procedure lasts less than an hour.  Once the procedure is over, a cold compress will be applied.  During your recovery you will apply a hydrating lotion to keep your skin moist and to promote rapid healing.  In most cases, you may resume your normal make-up application after three days.

DOT Therapy can be performed safely on most skin types.  Many people get excellent results after just one treatment.  However, your specific needs may require two to six visits.  You will discuss this with your provider at your cosmetic consultation visit.  Multiple treatments are usually spaced approximately, one month apart.   However, spacing treatments further apart will not negatively affect your results.