Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT) is a new non-invasive skin treatment for areas of your skin that show signs of damage from acne, certain skin cancers, sun damage, age spots and other causes. It allows you to target specific areas, and gives very effective results.

PDT involves applying a topical medication to your skin, and then exposing it to a specific wavelength of light. This causes a reaction that eliminates abnormal skin cells and allows healthy cells to flourish (the term ‘photo dynamic’ refers to light sensitivity). We describe the procedure in more detail below.

The experienced staff at The Ashley Centre are at the forefront of Photo Dynamic Therapy, so you can be confident you’ll be in good hands during your treatment. Please contact us today for a personal, no obligation consultation to find out if PDT can help you.

WHAT’S INVOLVED IN PDT?

First of all, our friendly professional staff will talk with you about the treatment to answer any questions and confirm whether PDT is suitable for you. Some people who have photosensitivity issues, or are using certain types of medication may be advised not to have PDT. For most people however this is a very safe and effective procedure. You can make an appointment for your consultation online now.

The doctor will determine with you how many sessions you may require. Usually this is 1-5 treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

The first step in your treatment is to clean your skin, to remove natural oils. Sometimes we recommend microdermabrasion to prepare the skin surface more intensively. Then a solution known as ALA (alfa levulinic acid) is applied to your skin and left for 60 minutes to be absorbed.

Next, we use a specific level of blue or red light, which react with the ALA in your skin to improve its appearance. The blue light is not UV light and cannot damage your skin. As the ALA is activated you may feel a tingling or slight burning sensation, this is normal. The light treatment lasts for almost 17 minutes, and one of our team members will be there to monitor you throughout this time.

How will I feel after the PDT treatment?

It is normal to experience redness, swelling or tingling for about 48 hours after your PDT session. Crusting, darkening or lightening of the skin may also occur. Normally these effects pass in 1-3 days, and improve markedly within a week. (By this time you will also notice the results of your treatment). Within four weeks of treatment you should see no such signs at all, but you will notice much improved appearance of your skin – it will look more natural, youthful and vibrant.

What after-treatment care is required?

It is important to take care of the treated area immediately following PDT, as it will be sensitive to UV rays. This includes avoiding all sun exposure for the first 48 hours, and avoiding extended periods of direct sunlight without adequate protection (sunscreen, hat, coverage) for about two weeks. Our staff will explain these precautions in detail with you at your appointment.

Some patients choose to take a day or two off work while their skin recovers, depending on the extent of their treatment.

We always take care to monitor your recovery, so normally we would see you again at two days, one week, three weeks and four weeks after the procedure.

What’s the next step?

This page gives you general information about PDT at The Ashley Centre. However, each individual patient is unique. The best way to find out if PDT is the right treatment for you is to come and see us. Don’t worry, there are no sales pitches – our understanding staff will be happy to simply explain the options, and answer your questions to help you to make the right decision. Contact us today to make an appointment.

How much does PDT cost?

We understand you are curious to know how much PDT might cost. The truth is that your cost can fall within a fairly wide range. We believe it is inaccurate and unethical to give a cost estimate without gaining a proper understanding of your individual needs.

This approach ensures that we can outline all the costs to you accurately, so there are no last minute surprises or add-ons. The best way to give you an assessment of potential costs is for you to contact The Ashley Centre, and we can explain all your options to you and give you one, accurate quote. We are here to help and always place our patient’s best interests first.

Please either contact us online, or call us on 03 9569 3511 to arrange a no obligation consultation in person.