Cosmetic & Laser

Laser Vein Therapy

We can safely and effectively treat tiny superficial face veins and deeper blue leg veins on both men and women.

Our Lasers

We can treat a broad range of vessels from tiny spider veins to deep blue reticular veins quickly, safely, and effectively.

How does Vein Therapy work?

Laser vein therapy works by delivering pulses of light energy which cause the blood in the vein to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessel which is reabsorbed by the body. Blood flow will then be directed to veins deeper below the skin's surface, where it should be. Prior to treatment, make sure that all makeup, lotions, and skin products are removed from the treatment area. Shave the area to be treated the night before if hair is present. We are able to treat small facial veins and spider leg veins at our day spa. Larger veins should be treated by a vascular surgeon.

What types of veins can be treated?

Our system can remove unsightly veins from all parts of the body. Small, facial veins (or telangiectasia) can be treated quickly without bruising or complication. Spider veins and large blue leg veins can also be treated with excellent results. Knotty varicose veins are not good candidates. A careful evaluation with your physician will help you determine which vessels can be treated and the best course of treatment.

How does this compare to Sclerotherapy?

Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action, but many physicians and patients prefer Laser Vein Therapy because there are no painful injections.

What about blood blisters and port wine stainst?

Blood blisters or hemangiomas respond very well to Laser Vein Therapy, usually with just one treatment. Patients with port wine stains and other vascular lesions who had given up on finding a solution have been overwhelmed by the success of their Laser vascular treatments. Consult your physician for a thorough evaluation.

How many treatments do I need?

Usually, one or two vein treatments are sufficient. This depends a lot on the number, color and size of the vessels being treated. We will do our best to make an educated guess as to how much laser therapy you might need to get the results you are looking for. Most people have a 70% reduction in facial veins and a 40% improvement in leg veins after one treatment session. Often, after treatment, it will seems like the vessels are actually "worse" or not better at all.

Do the treatments hurt?

Most patients experience a stinging sensation as the pulses of energy are delivered through the handpiece. Although no local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required. Following the treatment, the pain is minimal to nonexistent.

What happens after the treatment?

The area to be treated is first cooled with ice or the laser Cutera Coolglide handpiece to minimize your discomfort. After cooling, the laser pulse is delivered. Some people experience a mild pinching sensation. Others have described the sensation of being snapped with a rubber band. Very tiny veins cannot be cooled ahead of time because the cold constricts the blood vessel too much which makes the laser therapy less effective. Fortunately, small vessels are not usually very uncomfortable when treated. Aspirin and Vitamin E supplements should be avoided for 10 days before therapy to minimize bruising. Often, there will be mild redness to the treated area and some local swelling which usually resolves within 24 hours to 7 days. Some patients may experience bruising and occasionally, small blistering may occur. If blistering or scabbing occurs, do not scratch open the area. Keep the area clean and apply an over the counter antibiotic ointment like Neosporin. When treated correctly, the area will usually heal without scarring. Itching can occur as the skin is healing. An over the counter hydrocortisone ointment can help with this if it is bothersome.

What are the possible side effects?

Occasionally, crusting or flaking of the treated area can occur taking 1-3 weeks to resolve. Once the skin heals, it may be pink or sensitive to the sun for up to to one month. During the healing process, the skin may become lighter of darker in color compared to the surrounding skin. This is usually temporary but may be permanent. Larger veins that are treated can leave behind a tan pigment in the treated area. This is caused by a release of iron from the reabsorbing of veins and can persist for up to six months. Skin infection or scarring is also possible, although rare, whenever a skin procedure is performed. Tylenol can help with any post therapy discomfort. Many people have no discomfort following the procedure. You can go about your normal activities right away after treatment. You should avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after treatment. It is important to wear a sunscreen on any skin exposed to the sun to minimize the chance of sunburn/sun damage.

When will I see results?

It is not uncommon for it to take two to six weeks before you will notice a change. Final results may not be apparent for up to three months. Over time, it is possible for new veins to appear just as they would have without ever having vein therapy. These new vessels can also be removed with the Cutera Coolglide laser.

Laser is not recommended for people who have had skin cancer, who are currently pregnant, or people who use medications that make their skin highly sensitive to light.