Cutera Laser & Titan System

More than any other technology, laser therapy has emerged as the major tool in esthetic therapy. The application of light waves to the skin has evolved dramatically with longer wavelengths of light treating deeper structures, the use of pulsed (as opposed to continuous) durations minimizing discomfort from heat, and wider beams covering greater areas more quickly. As a result, the number of conditions amenable to laser therapy has skyrocketed.

What is the Cutera Laser?  Technically, the Cutera XEO Laser is a long pulsed neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser--a source of light energy to which attachment heads are applied and settings adjusted depending upon the condition being treated, skin and hair color and texture, and the depth of penetration required. The key is to heat treat the appropriate layer of skin depth leaving the layers on top cool and undamaged. One of these attachment heads is called the Titan, which works to tone, lift, and tighten (hence the name!) loose or excess skin on the abdomen, face, neck,arms, or legs. It also stimulates production of collagen, protein fibers that make up the skin's support mechanism. The result is younger, tighter looking skin. The lay press has dubbed the Titan Procedure a nonsurgical facelift or nonsurgical tummy tuck.

OK, got it. What else can this laser do? Happily, the list is long. Unwanted facial and body hair can be permanently eliminated. Leg veins can be targeted and destroyed, as can fine dilated facial blood vessels (telangiectasias). The XEO CoolGlide and Genesis Plus handpieces can treat unwanted pigment changes, such as sun spots, aging spots, birthmarks and rosacea.  In photorejuvenation mode, the laser provides heat to the underlying dermis to stimulate collagen growth, smoothing out overlying fine lines and wrinkles.

What can I expect? The process starts with a consultation, which is free of charge. Laser therapy is a time-consuming but relatively straightforward process. The area under treatment is shaved, cooled with ice packs and a topical anaesthetic gel is applied. This newest generation laser minimizes any burning sensation since the attachment head is cold water cooled. Treatment sessions may last 15-45 minutes. After each session, cool compresses and a soothing gel is applied to the area. A pink or reddish painless  discoloration of treated areas is to be expected, usually lasting several hours. You may be asked to use ace wraps, support stockings or to avoid sun exposure for a short time afterward, depending upon the area treated. Specific instructions will be provided at the time of treatment.

How many treatments will I need? Although individuals vary, leg veins usually require 2 treatment sessions, hair removal 3-6 sessions (usually 4), Titan skin toning and tightening 2 sessions, brown and red spots 2 sessions. Photorejuvenation with the XEO Laser Genesis attachment requires the greatest number of treatment sessions (usually 4, each separated by 2 weeks). Obviously, a more precise estimate of treatment duration will be available at the time of your initial consultation.