Lichen Sclerosus
Lichen Sclerosus is a painful skin condition that affects millions of women around the world. Until now, the only available treatments were topical steroids which only helped manage the condition. This led to a slow and uncertain road to recovery with unpleasant side effects.
Today, Dr. Sharmeen Shaikh at Excellence Medical and Skincare Clinic, located in Sherwood Park Alberta, provides cutting edge laser technology that can relieve the symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus. Through the use ProFractional Laser Therapy, women are now able to live symptom free of this debilitating condition. At Excellence Medical and Skincare, we are excited to be able to offer customizable treatment plans based on patient’s needs and their availability for treatment.
What is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen Sclerosus causes lesions and thinning of tissue that can easily tear. These areas may appear smoother and lighter in colour compared to the surrounding healthy tissue. When the vulvar skin is damaged, the skin can fuse and then tear, causing more broken skin, leading to uncomfortable intercourse and painful urination. The cause of Lichen Sclerosus is unknown, however, it is widely considered to be an autoimmune disorder with known risk factors including; genetics, other immune diseases, and trauma to the genital area.
Will the Laser Treatment Prevent a Recurrence of Lichen Sclerosus?
Health Canada recently licensed for the treatment of epidermal lesions with profractional laser. This includes treatment of lesions caused by lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, as well as melanocytic and keratinocytic lesions. Unfortunately, with Lichen Sclerosus there is always a risk of recurrence. We are pleased to say that with profractional laser treatment, patients have reported a 100% recovery from Lichen Sclerosus with no recurrence of associated symptoms. If you suspect you have the signs and symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus, coming into our clinic for an assessment is the best choice to live a more comfortable life.
What Laser Treatment is Available for Lichen Sclerosus?
First, Dr. Shaikh completes an exam and biopsy to determine the areas to be treated and the depth of the Lichen Sclerosus lesions. Dr. Shaikh and her team of qualified nurses then use the ProFractional Laser to eliminate damaged tissue, allowing new and healthy tissue to develop. The ProFractional Laser can be uniquely adjusted for the patient’s individual needs. It can be customized to treat the affected damaged tissue while preserving the healthy surrounding tissue. Combined with the healing benefits of Platelet Rich Plasma, also known as PRP, the patient will know that they are getting the most effective treatment for tissue rejuvenation.
After the initial assessment, Dr. Shaikh will have all necessary information within 7-10 days, allowing time to make a customizable plan for each individual. Upon results of the biopsy findings, patients will review the results in clinic and discuss the treatment plan with Dr. Shaikh. Associated laser treatments will be booked 2-3 weeks apart, with a follow-up booked for 6 months after the last treatment.
“At Excellence Medical and Skincare Clinic, We Restore Women’s Lives Through Improved Pelvic Health So You Can Focus on What’s Important: Enjoying Your Life and The People You Love”
What are the Symptoms of lichen sclerosus
Common symptoms might include
- Vulvar itching (very common)
- Anal itching, bleeding, or pain
- Pain during sex
- Skin bruising and tearing
- Blisters
- Easy bleeding from minor rubbing of the skin
- Pain or bleeding when having a bowel movement
- Trouble urinating or pain with urination
- Painful erections (in men)
In most cases, the symptoms can be treated and sexual performance can be restored.
Book a consultation to open up the discussion.
TREATING THE PROBLEM CAN HELP YOUR SEX LIFE, YOUR EMOTIONAL INTIMACY AND YOUR SELF-IMAGE
Why Choose Excellence Medical and Skincare?
Dr. Shaikh has extensive qualifications and experience in women’s and vulvar health and has been named in The Women’s Choice Award Best Doctors 2023 list. Dr. Shaikh is specially trained to diagnose and treat female pelvic conditions and can guide each patient as to which therapy or procedure is best suited for them. She and her experienced all-female staff are on the forefront for the treatment for Lichen Sclerosus.