Laser Spider Vein Therapy

How does laser vein therapy work?

Laser spider vein therapy at our Birmingham, Alabama laser spa delivers pulses of light energy which cause the blood within the veins to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessels. The veins are later reabsorbed by your body. Blood flow is redirected to veins deeper below your skin's surface, where it should be.

What types of veins can be treated?

Laser vein therapy can be used to remove unsightly veins from all parts of the body. Small facial veins (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 best treated with Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT). A careful evaluation will help you determine which vessels can be treated and the best course of treatment.

The laser's unique design and long wavelength allow us to treat patients of all skin tones.

How does laser vein therapy compare to sclerotherapy?

The professionals at Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery & Spa Greystone will advise you on the best course of action. Some providers and patients prefer laser vein therapy to sclerotherapy because there are no painful injections.

What about blood blisters and port wine stains?

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 spider vein treatments.

How many treatments do I need?

Patients often find one or two treatments to be sufficient. However, the number of necessary treatments depends on the number, color and size of the vessels being treated.

Do laser vein therapy 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, many patients choose to use a topical anesthetic prior to treatment. Following the treatment, the pain is minimal to nonexistent.

What happens after treatment?

Following your treatment, some redness or bruising may occur. When larger veins are treated, a tan or brownish pigment may persist for a few weeks or months following treatment. Patients who have leg vein treatments may be advised to wear support hose for a short period of time.

What are the possible side effects?

Although many patients report few if any side effects, those most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local swelling of the skin. These effects typically last for less than 24 hours. Some patients may experience bruising, Blistering may occur in rare instances.

Are there any restrictions on activity after treatment?

Patients generally resume most normal activities immediately. However, it is recommended that you avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after treatment. The use of sunscreen is recommended on any treated areas exposed to the sun. As always, it is a good idea to limit your sun exposure.

When will I see results?

Most patients find that the majority of the treated veins show significant improvement within 2 to 6 weeks of treatment. However, your final results may not be apparent for several months. Over time, it is possible for new veins to appear, but these too can be removed with the laser vein therapy at our office in Greystone Cosmetic Center.