Thanks to a generous gift from Janet Tussing, Akron Children’s Hospital’s Paul and Carol David Foundation Burn Institute has acquired two advanced lasers – the Lumenis® Stellar M22® and UltraPulse® Fractional CO2 – to treat scarring from burns and complex wounds, as well as acne, vascular malformations and a variety of cosmetic concerns in adults and children. Combined with other lasers currently in use at Akron Children’s, we are the only hospital in a multi-state region to provide the most advanced laser therapy for cosmetic and reconstructive (scar management) care.
As an outpatient procedure, it safely and effectively improves the appearance, thickness and feel of scars, while also decreasing pain and itching. In addition, laser treatments result in better range of motion, limiting and occasionally, preventing, the need for complex reconstructive surgery. Improving the physical appearance of scars has psychological benefits, helping patients feel less self-conscious and erasing the reminders of a traumatic burn injury.
Director, Paul and Carol David Foundation Burn Institute; Acute/Reconstructive Burn Surgeon; Surgical Critical Care; Director, Pediatric and Adult Cosmetic & Reconstructive Laser Program; The Marci M. Matthews Endowed Chair for Excellence in Burn Care
Accepting New Patients
Acute/Reconstructive Burn and Plastic Surgeon; Surgical Critical Care
Director, Pediatric Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery; Medical Director, James A. Lehman Jr., MD Craniofacial Center and Speech Resonance Clinic; Pediatric Craniofacial Surgeon
Scars form as part of the body’s natural healing response after an injury such as a severe burn, trauma or even a surgical incision. To improve the texture of scars, laser therapy is used to deliver short impulses of light and energy that penetrate the layers of the scar, break down its rigid fibers, and promote the production of new collagen and healthy elastic fibers. These advanced lasers allow for greater precision in targeting specific areas so healthy skin tissue is protected. They also provide greater flexibility in tailoring the amount of light and energy based on each patient’s individual needs. Because they can penetrate deeper than most common lasers, excellent results can be achieved quickly, safely and comfortably in patients of all ages.
Our burn surgeons, as well as our pediatric dermatologists and pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgeons, have all received specialized training in the use of these lasers. Along with applications in burn care, they may be used to treat inflammatory acne or smoothen acne scars in teens and adults.
For inflammatory acne, laser treatment can be a great alternative to oral medications. Our laser uses short pulses of intense light to eliminate acne-causing bacteria in the pores and reduce inflammation and excessive skin oil production. This greatly improves skin appearance by reducing breakouts, while also treating redness and pigmentation.
With precision and a high level of safety, laser therapy has become the first-line therapy for a number of vascular malformations, including hemangiomas, port-wine stains and telangiectasia (spider veins).
These lasers have numerous applications in cosmetic treatments that address a variety of concerns for men and women, including spider and varicose veins, port-wine stain birthmarks, rosacea, unwanted hair, and fine lines or other early signs of aging. Treatment with these state-of-the-art lasers is gentle, yet effective with minimal downtime. Adult cosmetic treatments are not covered by insurance.
While we are ranked among the best children's hospitals in the country, it's our compassionate approach to treatment that makes us truly exceptional. Through a combination of revolutionary treatments and extraordinary patient experiences, our care does more than heal. It brings the entire family together for emotional support and understanding across multiple locations to reach you in the community where you live. Learn more...
