The changes experienced when you go through menopause may be consistent with the end of childbearing, but there’s no reason intimacy should stop then. The MonaLisa Touch™ system uses laser technology to address some of the symptoms of menopause, and it’s the choice of Dr. Susanne Ramos and her team in Santa Barbara, California. Call for an appointment today, or book online.
Laser devices are changing the way many medical and cosmetic procedures are performed. While laser “cutting” devices exist, most use laser light to target and selectively treat tissue through controlled warming. The light energy of the laser is absorbed by the target tissue and converted to heat, which usually starts a natural healing process which revitalizes and rejuvenates the affected tissue.
The MonaLisa Touch system is a controlled-warming laser specifically designed to treat the walls of your vagina to relieve the genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM). Typically, these symptoms include vaginal dryness, itchiness, or burning. Uncomfortable or painful intercourse or urination often accompany these symptoms, too, making the MonaLisa Touch system an invaluable treatment for many menopausal women.
How does the MonaLisa Touch laser work?
The MonaLisa Touch instrument targets tissues in the vaginal wall where collagen resides. The instrument delivers controlled laser energy to the collagen layer, boosting its temperature. The body interprets this intense warming as damage to the collagen layer, stimulating a healing response and new tissue production. Blood flow to the area increases, and so does the tissue’s ability to store moisture and create adequate lubrication.
With this new tissue comes relief from the symptoms of GSM. Patients report that their bodies feel more responsive and youthful, and pain or discomfort associated with the onset of menopause is no longer a problem.
What can I expect from a MonaLisa Touch treatment?
It’s fast. While your visit to Dr. Ramos takes about 30 minutes, the MonaLisa Touch treatment itself only takes about five minutes. Many women say the treatment is painless, and if you’re concerned about discomfort, Dr. Ramos can use an anesthetic cream to make you more comfortable. The standard course of treatment consists of three or four treatments spaced about one month apart.
While individual results vary, many women report noticeable improvement after a single treatment. After the initial series, annual follow-ups may be performed, if necessary, though it’s not always the case. You can discuss ongoing treatment with Dr. Ramos after you’ve experienced the results of your initial treatment.
- BRAC Analysis test for Hereditary Breast & Ovarian Cancer syndrome
- COLARIS test for Lynch Syndrome
Obstetrics:
Dr. Susanne Ramos and her friendly staff treat each patient with compassion and dignity. We consider it a privilege to help women as they both plan for starting a family and navigate the changes that await during pregnancy, delivery, and the post-partum period.
