Spider veins are small (less than 3 mm) veins often found on the face, thighs and ankles. These veins are typically purple, blue or red and usually appear in three basic shapes: linear, branch-like or spider-shaped.
What causes spider veins?
These veins are often provoked by sun exposure, pressure, hormonal changes, heredity, or other factors. For example, many women tend to develop leg veins after pregnancy due to increased pressure and hormonal changes, or those with rosacea tend to have a weak capillary network under the skin which is often genetic. Some individuals develop a red flushed complexion due to over use or abuse of harsh skin care products while others develop red broken capillaries around the nose due to aggressive extraction. Although the exact cause is often unknown, these spider veins can be safely and effectively treated with the appropriate technology.
How are spider veins treated?
The Nd:YAG laser used at Azure Advanced Aesthetics penetrates deeply into tissue, targeting the hemoglobin in the vein and protecting the surrounding skin with Zimmer cooling technology. The targeted spider vein is thermally coagulated causing it to collapse, forcing the body to absorb and repair the area.
What Results can I expect?
Laser Vein Removal is very effective when used on appropriate veins. Most finer or spider like veins can be removed within 1 to 2 treatments. Larger or deeper leg veins may require more treatments. For some, the veins will disappear completely without any visible trace. Others, however, may experience some bruising or discoloration which can take up to several weeks to resolve completely. It may take 2-6 weeks for your body’s healing response to begin and it may take up to 4-8 weeks for your body to absorb and eliminate the coagulated vessels. Treatments are generally spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart.
Is Laser Therapy painful?
During treatment, you may feel a sensation somewhat like a rubber band snapping. The Laser system used at Azure Advanced Aesthetics for vein treatments, includes an integrated Zimmer cooling system for increased comfort and to prevent damage to the surrounding skin.
How Long Do the Results Last?
Spider vein removal is permanent; however, those who are prone to spider veins may notice the appearance of new vessels due to genetics and lifestyle / environment.
How do I know if I am a candidate for laser vein treatment?
All individuals are evaluated prior to laser therapy. Spider veins do not cause symptoms and are of a cosmetic concern only. For those who have symptoms, further investigation is done to ensure that they do not have varicose veins. Laser therapy is most effective for the very small spider veins and not used to treat large varicose veins.
What preparations should I take before treatment?
There are no major preparations required before the laser treatment, but you will want to avoid sun exposure, aspirin, alcohol and smoking for at least a week prior to the procedure. On the day of treatment, avoid all creams, lotions and moisturizers on the area that is going to be treated. Also, wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the body part(s) being treated.
What protocols should I follow after treatment?
• Aggressively cool area after treatment
• Apply ice packs or cold aloe vera for comfort or if redness or swelling continues
• If there is no extended redness, blistering, or scabbing, resume make-up, shaving, and regular skin care the next day
• If scabbing of blistering occur, keep moist with aloe or other cream of choice
• Wash the treatment area gently with soap and water. Do not soak.
• Do not shave the treated area if crusting is evident.
• Avoid contact sports or any other activity that could cause bruising of the treated area.
• Avoid sun exposure between treatments. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a good quality 30+ SPF sunblock to cover exposed, treated areas.
• You may continue with normal daily activities, however, you need to refrain from hot baths or exercise for up to 3 days.
• Compression stockings may be recommended for leg veins.
What are side effects of laser therapy?
The skin above the veins will often have a reddish, cat-scratch appearance. This generally disappears over the next two days. Laser vein treatment may remove some hair that may be in the treated area.
What are potential complications of laser therapy?
The risks associated with laser vein therapy are minimal. Your eyes will be shielded during the treatments. A state-of-the-art cooling system is used during treatment, thus the treatments are low risk and relatively pain-free. Following post treatment protocols will help to reduce potential complications.
Choosing a Provider for Laser Vein Treatments:
When selecting a provider for laser treatments, give your decision the same level of care and scrutiny that you would for a medical procedure. Even though it is non-surgical, Laser vein treatment is still a complex procedure that requires specific training, knowledge and skill to ensure safe treatment and effective results. You’ll want to choose a provider with extensive experience and access to a well trained physician for any potential questions or complications. Typically a plastic surgeon or dermatologist practice has the requisite training and experience for the best outcomes. A reputable and experienced Laser provider who has access to other skin treatments will know what Lasers can do for your skin and what they can’t. Each person is unique; therefore, at your initial consultation, your provider should address your concerns in a comprehensive, integrative manner.
