About Laser Vein Treatment

Lasers are used to treat small, superficial veins, including spider veins, on the face and legs.  The veins range in color from red to purple to blue.  When treating these vascular lesions, the blood temperature at the targeted area is elevated to a level that causes coagulation without damage to the epidermis or surrounding tissue but destroys the function of the vein.  Over time, the vein is absorbed by the body and disappears from sight.

There is no way to tell for sure which veins will respond.  A consultation with the clinician to evaluate and assess your veins will be required.  Prior surgery or treatment on your veins could affect the treatment outcome.  In some cases, further testing may be recommended to determine if there are underlying venous problems.

Multiple treatments are almost always necessary.  The number of treatments necessary varies from person to person.

What to Expect During a Laser Vein Treatment

The area being treated will be cleansed and a topical anesthetic applied approximately 20 – 40 minutes prior to the laser treatment.  The anesthetic will then be removed and a cool gel applied.  For some patients, there is little or no discomfort with this laser treatment.  For other patients, there is moderate discomfort described as a stinging sensation only when the laser pulse is delivered.  An air cooler system will be used on the skin during treatment to alleviate some of the discomfort.  After treatment, the gel is removed, and hydrocortisone and sunscreen may be applied to the laser-treated areas.

The laser treatments are scheduled in blocks of time from 15 – 60 minutes per setting.  Additional treatments may occur at 6 – 8 week intervals.

Side Effects of Laser Vein Treatment

Although we encourage you to resume normal activities almost immediately, we do ask that you refrain from vigorous exercise and avoid hot tubs for at least 24 hours post treatment.  You may have mild to moderate pain.  Redness, swelling and bruising can occur.

Pre-Treatment Care

Avoid direct sun exposure prior to and after any type of laser treatment.  Treatment cannot be performed on tanned skin.  When sun exposure is limited, both before and after laser treatment, the risk of complications is greatly reduced.

If you are using Retin A, glycolics or any other harsh topical product on the area to be treated, discontinue use of these 2 days prior to treatment.

Post-Treatment Care

Discontinue use of strong topicals for 5 days after treatment.  Avoid direct sun exposure after treatment; and, if you do go in the sun, protect the treated area with sunscreen.  Keep the area clean and moist.