Cutera Excel V

What conditions does Excel V treat?

Excel V has been shown effective at treating a number of conditions, including:

• Rosacea
• Telangiectasias (broken blood vessels)
• Leg veins
• Port wine stains
• Cherry angiomas
• Benign pigmented (brown) skin lesions

Excel V treats mild and severe forms of these conditions. The system may also have a cosmetic benefit for patients who have skin lesions or scars from past injuries or surgeries.

How does Excel V work?

Excel V, developed by Cutera, is a new laser system providing treatment for a variety of vascular skin conditions. Many skin conditions manifest in the form of broken or abnormal blood vessels in the skin, such is the case with rosacea, in which the facial blood vessels dilate excessively causing redness and flushing. Excel V treats these conditions by administering a unique high power green laser that is absorbed by the abnormal blood vessels in the skin.  The laser heats the abnormal vessels until they are removed.  At the end of treatment, the patient’s natural skin tone and color are restored.

How is the procedure performed?

After an initial consultation with the patient, the physician determines if treatment with the Excel V is appropriate. Unlike other procedures, injections or topical anaesthesia are not required throughout the duration of the 15 – 30 minute procedure.  Depending on the condition, the physician places the Excel V hand piece over the affected areas of the skin until the abnormal vessels diminish. To minimize discomfort  and protect the patient’s skin,  the Excel V uses a proprietary cooling mechanism.

What skin types does Excel V treat?

All skin types indentified in the Fitzpatrick skin type classification can be treated with the Excel V system. This classification denotes 6 different skin types, ranging from very light (type I) to very dark (type VI).  The 532nm wavelength is ideal for treating skin types I – IV and the 1064nm mode can be used on all skin types I - VI.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of sessions depends on various parameters, including the size, thickness and color of the vascular lesion. Superficial vascular lesions such as small telangiectasia and diffused redness are easiest to treat; some patients might see significant improvement after just one treatment.

Are there other laser treatment options available for these skin conditions?

Yes, there are other laser treatment options available for skin conditions. The challenge usually associated with laser treatment is tailoring the treatment to precisely match the patient’s unique skin condition. Some existing lasers may be effective for treating a condition at one size and depth, but may not work effectively on conditions that affect a larger area.

How can I find more information about Excel V laser treatment?

More information is available at www.excelv.com

Specialists perspective on the Excel V

Dr Hugh Roberts, Consultant Dermatologist

"The Excel V from Cutera is considered our 'workhorse' laser. It is such a versatile laser platform and safely and effectively treats a variety of skin conditions ranging from vascular (blood vessel) disorders to pigmented (brown) skin conditions."