What happens after treatment?
- Your child will develop a bruise or increased swelling after treatment. This bruise will last for 1 to 2 weeks. The underlying mark should slowly fade over the next couple of months. The spot may not go away completely. Multiple treatments are needed to get the best results fading the spots.
- A fine scab or blister may appear over the treated area in the first few days after the laser treatment. If a blister or scab forms, please call or message us in MyChart.
When should I call the clinic?
Call us if you have any concerns.
Call if there are blisters or scabs forming in the area treated. Infection is very rare but can result in scarring and should be treated as soon as possible.
Signs of infection include:
- worsening pain or redness at site
- yellow crust or pus
- fever above 100.5 F (38.1 C)
How do I care for my child at home?
- Your child may have some swelling and burning in the first 48 hours.
- Use ice packs and keep the area treated raised if possible.
- Repeat this as needed to help relieve the symptoms.
- You can give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4 to 6 hours. Use this medicine only if recommend by your healthcare provider. Check with your healthcare provider first before giving any type of medicine to your child. Avoid giving your child aspirin or ibuprofen (like Motrin).
- Handle the treated area with care. Do not rub the area or pick off any crust or scab.
- Wash the area gently with lukewarm water without a washcloth for the first week. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment at least 2 times a day until the bruising goes away.
- If your child had anesthesia during the laser treatment, they may be sleepy and nauseous for the first 24 hours. Let your child decide how much they want to eat during this time. Make sure they drink plenty of liquids.
- Be very careful about having your child in the sun for at least a month after treatment and before any further treatments. If they cannot avoid the sun, have them use sunscreen of SPF 30 or more, sun protective clothing and hats. It is important that the treated area does not get tan or sunburned.
To Learn More
- Dermatology
206-987-2158 - Vascular Anomalies Clinic
206-987-4606 - For questions on evenings or weekends, call 206-987-2000 and ask the operator to page the dermatologist on call.
- Ask your child’s healthcare provider
- seattlechildrens.org/patient-education
Free Interpreter Services
- In the hospital, ask your nurse.
- From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.
