Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Jackson, TN
Ready to get started?
Contact UsWHAT IS PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a special treatment performed with topical photosensitizing agents called Ameluz (5-aminolaevulinic acid) or Levulan (5-aminolevulinic acid or ALA) that are activated with the correct wavelength of light. This is also known as “PDT treatment”, photofacial or photodynamic therapy. These treatments remove sun-damaged, pre-cancerous zones and spots called actinic keratosis. Sun damage, fine lines, and blotchy pigmentation are also improved because of the positive effect of the photosensitizing agent and the light treatment.
WHAT DOES PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY TREAT?
- Removing pre-cancerous skin lesions
- Preventing skin cancer
If you are interested in treating wrinkles, pore size, skin texture, of pigmentation, please see the list of our Cosmetic Dermatology Services offered.
Dermatology & Skin Cancer Consultants Reviews
Convenient location and friendly personnel, enjoyed a doctors visit and that is rare to enjoy going to the doctor!
I am posting this on my husband’s account, but I just wanted to share my experience here. Everyone that I saw was very kind—from the front desk to the back room. The nurse practitioner and nurse that I had at my appointment were very sweet and personable, and they took the time to make me feel better about my skin, which I appreciated because I tend to get nervous in doctor’s offices. It was my first time here, and I will use them again in the future if needed. I’d be happy to recommend this office to anyone.
I want to say these ladies go above and beyond to help with issues that you may have with your skin,and with Ms.Patrica she is happy and always caring when entering my room .She help me get my psoriasis under control. I always enjoy coming to the office cause I feel that I get all answers!
There is no other skin cancer physician, Moh’s surgeon or dermatologist I trust more. I first met Dr. Carranza over 11 years ago before her private practice. I was in a very fragile state and that’s the day she impacted my life forever. My skin cancer journey began a little over 15 years ago in my mid 20’s. I have seen other dermatologist’s and Moh’s surgeon’s in Atlanta, Memphis and Nashville- she is by far the most incredible. Her compassion, knowledge, professionalism, bedside manner is unparalleled to anyone. Sincerely, there is no other person I trust more with my skin cancer journey or skincare needs. Dr. Carranza is most thorough in every exam and procedure. She is persistent in advocating for her patients. She will take her time, listen and explain in a way you will understand. Many doctors these days lack empathy, not her. I noticed that from day one, she genuinely cares. You can tell that this field is a true love and passion. You will see that trait almost immediately after meeting with Dr. Carranza. Let me say this, I hate that people have posted they are upset because they had to wait. Moh’s surgery is not like going through a fast food restaurant. It is a procedure that takes time. You want your surgeon to take that time - making sure those margins are indeed clear. On that note if you do wait a little longer, have comfort because she will take her time with you. Her appointments are not like quickly cooking and flipping a burger to get to the next one. I promise she will impact your life in a positive manner. Trust her expertise and she will guide you in whatever dermatological needs you may have in your life. Dr. Carranza is bar none!
I am a new patient at this clinic and I was very impressed at how quickly I was able to get an appointment and how quickly they saw me once I arrived. I didn't wait long maybe 10 min to see the Doc. The staff was very nice and helpful and the Doc was so sweet and professional. I have moved all my dermatological care to this clinic and I am so glad I did! 😊
15
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Get In Touch
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY FOR ACTINIC KERATOSIS
How much improvement can I expect?
If you have severely sun-damaged skin manifested by actinic keratoses, texture, and tone changes including mottled pigmentation and skin laxity, you’ll likely see excellent results. You may also see improvement of large pores and pitted acne scars.
How many treatments will it take to see the optimal results?
To achieve maximum improvement of pre-cancerous (actinic keratoses) sun damage, skin tone, and texture, a series of 2 – 3 treatments 6 – 8 weeks apart is most effective. Some patients with just actinic keratoses are happy with one treatment. More treatments can be done at periodic intervals in the future to maintain the rejuvenated appearance of your skin.
What are the disadvantages?
Following PDT, the treated areas can appear red and swollen with some peeling for 2 – 7 days. Some patients have an exuberant response to PDT, and experience marked redness of their skin. Temporary swelling of the lips and tissue around your eyes can occur for a few days. Darker pigmented patches called liver spots can become temporarily darker and then peel off leaving normal skin. (This usually occurs over seven to ten days). Repeat treatments may be necessary. The photosensitizing agent is active for 48 hours, so you must stay inside for two days following treatment. This is an important consideration in scheduling your treatment.
What are the advantages?
- Easier for patients than repeated topical liquid nitrogen, Efudex (5-Fu), or Aldara because the side effects are minimal and there is rapid healing.
- PDT treatment is relatively painless versus liquid nitrogen, 5-FU, and Aldara.
- Reduced scarring and improved cosmetic outcome compared with cautery, surgery, and Efudex.
- Liquid nitrogen can leave white spots on skin.
- PDT improves the entire treatment area, creating one color, texture, and tone, rather than just spot treating with liquid nitrogen, cautery, and surgery.
In summary, PDT matches the “ideal treatment” for actinic damage:
- Well tolerated (essentially painless)
- Noninvasive (no needles or surgery required)
- Excellent cosmetic outcome (particularly in sensitive areas of your face)
