PHOTO DYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an excellent treatment for sun damaged skin and the pre-cancerous lesions called solar keratoses.
Sun damaged skin can develop multiple solar keratoses, which are red, scaly patches that have the potential to develop into early or superficial skin cancers that require treatment.
PDT is one of the faster and more definitive treatments for these lesions and has less overall downtime than the topical creams and lotions available.
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During treatment, a photo-sensitising chemical is applied to the skin in the treatment areas. After three hours you will return to the clinic and be placed under a specific wavelength of LED light. When the photo – sensitising medication is exposed to the selected wavelength of light, they produce a chemical that destroys the unhealthy cells, leaving the healthy cells.
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Following the treatment, the skin becomes red and swollen for 2-3 days, and then may crust and peel for 7-10 days.
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Please note: PDT is NOT covered under Medicare. Some health insurance companies do provide a partial rebate for this procedure. We advise patients to check with their cover prior to undertaking this procedure.
THE ADVANTAGES OF TREATMENT WITH PDT INCLUDE:​
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Non invasive treatment
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Reduced potential for scarring
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Ability to treat large areas in a short period of time
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Improved cosmetic outcomes
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Suitable for all skin types
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Less overall downtime than topical creams.