Treatment Overview
The Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser operates at 1064 nm (deep penetration) and sometimes 532 nm (superficial pigment), making it one of the most versatile lasers for vascular and pigmented birthmarks. Unlike Q-Switched Nd:YAG (which delivers ultra-short pulses), the long-pulsed mode uses longer pulse durations that are more effective for vascular birthmarks (port-wine stains, hemangiomas, telangiectasias) while still targeting melanin in certain pigmented lesions.
In Korea, the Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser is widely used for vascular-type congenital birthmarks, mixed pigmented-vascular lesions, and deeper dermal pigmentation. It is often integrated into combination protocols with Q-Switched, Alexandrite, or Pico lasers for resistant congenital birthmarks.
It belongs to the Birthmark & Pigmentation Laser family (Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed, Q-Switched Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, Ruby, Gold Toning, IPL, Pico Lasers):
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed (1064 nm): Best for vascular birthmarks + deep dermal pigment.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for melasma + superficial/dermal pigment.
- Alexandrite (755 nm): Best for congenital pigmented birthmarks (café-au-lait).
- Ruby (694 nm): Best for resistant pigmented lesions.
- Gold Toning (595 nm): Best for vascular melasma + inflamed pigment.
- IPL: Best for superficial vascular-pigmented lesions.
- Pico Lasers: Best for stubborn pigment + scars.
Purpose & Benefits
- Vascular Birthmark Treatment: Effective for port-wine stains, hemangiomas, and telangiectasias.
- Pigmented Lesion Clearance: Treats Ota nevus, café-au-lait, and dermal pigmented spots.
- Dual Depth Targeting: 532 nm for superficial lesions, 1064 nm for deep vascular/pigment.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Minimizes risk of PIH when performed by Korean specialists.
- Multi-Use: Also improves leg veins, rosacea, and facial redness.
- Collagen Stimulation: Secondary benefit of tightening and skin rejuvenation.
Ideal Candidates
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser in Korea is recommended for:
- Children and adults with vascular birthmarks (port-wine stain, hemangioma).
- Patients with dermal pigmented birthmarks (Ota nevus, congenital nevi).
- Individuals with mixed pigmented + vascular lesions.
- Men and women comparing treatments:
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed: Best for vascular + deep dermal pigmentation.
- Q-Switched Nd:YAG: Best for melasma and superficial pigment control.
- Alexandrite: Best for congenital pigmented marks (café-au-lait).
- Ruby: Best for resistant pigmented lesions.
- Gold Toning: Best for vascular melasma + PIH.
- IPL: Best for superficial vascular/pigment issues.
- Pico Lasers: Best for stubborn pigment + scars.
Possible Risks & Complications
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser is safe, but possible temporary side effects include:
- Redness & Swelling: Usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
- Crusting or Darkening: Lesions may temporarily darken before fading.
- Rare Risks: PIH, hypopigmentation, or scarring (rare in Korean expert care).
Surgical Techniques Used
Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser uses selective photothermolysis with long pulses:
- 532 nm: Targets superficial pigmented spots and vascular lesions.
- 1064 nm: Penetrates deeper to treat dermal pigment and vascular malformations.
- Long-Pulsed Mode: Controlled thermal energy for vascular coagulation and pigment clearance.
- Protocol:
- Vascular birthmarks: 4–8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- Pigmented lesions: 3–6 sessions depending on depth.
- Combination: Often paired with Q-Switched or Pico lasers for optimal results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Redness, swelling, and mild warmth.
- 2–5 Days: Lesion may darken, crust, or form micro-scabs.
- 1–2 Weeks: Pigment/vascular marks fade progressively.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply cooling packs or soothing ointments as directed.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent rebound pigmentation.
- Avoid picking at scabs or crusts.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants, acids, or retinoids for 5–7 days.
Results & Longevity
- After First Session: Redness reduction, early pigment lightening.
- Short-Term (2–4 Sessions): Noticeable fading of vascular and pigmented lesions.
- Medium-Term (4–8 Sessions): Significant improvement in congenital or dermal birthmarks.
- Long-Term: Results may be permanent for vascular lesions; pigment clearance can be stable with sun protection.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Analysis – Doctor evaluates whether the birthmark is vascular, pigmented, or mixed.
- Preparation – Cleansing, numbing cream if necessary, protective eyewear.
- Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Session – 1064 and/or 532 nm wavelengths applied to target lesions.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask, hydrating ointments, antioxidant serums.
- Follow-Up: Multi-session plan for gradual birthmark clearance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korea has refined Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed protocols for both vascular and pigmented birthmarks.
- Dermatologists combine Nd:YAG with Q-Switched, Alexandrite, or Pico Lasers for complex cases.
- Affordable compared to Western vascular/pigment treatments.
- Seoul is internationally recognized for vascular and congenital birthmark programs.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser in Korea:
- Single Session (small birthmark area): USD 150 – 400
- Medium to Large Birthmark (per session): USD 400 – 800
- 4–8 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 3,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Exosomes, PN boosters, whitening drips): USD 100 – 400
💡 The Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed Laser is often called “the vascular-pigment dual solution” in Korea, since it treats vascular birthmarks and deep dermal pigmented lesions with precision and safety.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Dermatology (Seoul): Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed for vascular congenital birthmarks.
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Nd:YAG + Q-Switched combo for Ota nevus and port-wine stains.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed for hemangiomas + pigment.
- View Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed for café-au-lait + vascular lesions.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Premium Nd:YAG Long-Pulsed + regenerative boosters.
