LichenLase™

What is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin condition that causes thinning and discoloration of the skin, usually around the genital and/or anal area. It can affect women, men, and children — but it’s most common in women after menopause.

If left untreated, LS can become very uncomfortable and sometimes painful, and may even lead to complications like skin damage and scarring. Patients with LS also have a higher risk of vulvar cancer.

Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?

• White or red patches on the skin around your vulva or anus
• Blisters or sores
• Itching or burning
• Pain during sex or general soreness
• Tightness or narrowing of the vaginal opening

If you’ve noticed any of these changes, you might need to talk to your doctor.

Testimonial

My life with lichen - Mojca, 63 

At the age of 63, I was diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosis et Atrophicus affecting the pubic and anal areas.
The first signs started to appear about a year earlier in the form of burning skin, itching and small painful sores that didn’t heal. Not knowing what was causing it made me feel ashamed and upset. Eventually, I visited a gynecologist who referred me for a tissue biopsy, where benign lichen was confirmed.
After the diagnosis, I was prescribed various ointments (covered by health insurance), which did alleviate the condition, but not for long. Then I learned about laser therapy, though unfortunately, it must be paid for out-of-pocket.
After two laser treatments, the symptoms decreased significantly, though not completely. Four months later, the problems reappeared, but only half as severely as before. Two additional laser treatments were more painful, but bearable, and again brought noticeable improvement.
So far, I have noticed that with each series of laser treatments, the symptoms are milder and more bearable, so that I can already imagine a normal life - even with occasional treatments. Of course, this is only possible as long as I can afford the procedures, or until some other definitively effective treatment method is found.

Find a doctor who performs LichenLase™:

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What causes LS?

The exact cause of LS remains unclear, but it may be linked to:

• An overactive immune system (autoimmune issues)
• Hormonal changes (like lower estrogen after menopause)
• Skin irritation, injury, or infection

The good news? It can be managed with proper treatment.

How can laser treatment help?

Fotona’s LichenLase™ laser therapy effectively improves symptoms of LS. It has been shown to offer results that match or in some cases even exceed the effectiveness of standard topical corticosteroids. Studies have demonstrated significant improvements that can last up to six months. Laser treatment is especially recommended for those who do not respond to corticosteroids or who wish to reduce long-term steroid use.

What is the treatment like?

LichenLase™ is a quick in-office procedure that causes minimal discomfort. You can resume your normal activities immediately after the treatment.

How many sessions do you need?

The laser therapy typically requires three sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart, with follow-up sessions every 6 months to maintain results.