Spider veins and varicose veins
Spider veins, or telangiectasia, are those small red, blue and purple blood vessels that appear most frequently on the face and thighs. Unsightly veins may appear in any area of the body. Varicose veins are usually larger than ¼ inch in diameter and may appear raised with a bluish color. They appear mostly on the legs and may also be related to more serious vein disorders and require a careful evaluation by your doctor prior to treatment. Telangiectasia or small veins often present an aesthetic concern and many patients would like to get rid of these unattractive and sometimes embarrassing distractions from their natural beauty. With advances of today’s medical technology we are able to safely and effectively treat spider and small varicose veins.
Safe and effective laser procedures
New medical lasers provide safe and effective non-surgical treatment of spider and varicose veins. They work best on smaller veins (3 mm or less). Long Pulse Nd:YAG laser uses 1064 nm wave of collimated light. The laser penetrates through the skin and is readily absorbed by hemoglobin chromophores within veins and vascular lesions. During laser treatment, light energy is delivered through a special laser hand piece to the target vein along the length of the vessel. The treatment is delivered in a series of brief pulses. The energy is absorbed by the blood vessel but not by the surrounding tissue. Laser energy is absorbed and converted to heat. Heating causes blood coagulation and collapse of the vessel wall. The sealed vein is then broken down and absorbed by the body.
About the procedure
During treatment of vascular lesions with laser, some patients may experience mild burning sensation similar to being hit with a rubber band. Following laser vein treatment, slight bruising may be noticed around the treated vessel. The bruises usually disappear after the first week. Patients are generally encouraged to resume most normal activities immediately. We do ask that you refrain from vigorous activities for the first 24 hours. The majority of the treated vessels will be gone for good with one or two treatments. For the maximum long-term resolution, one or two additional treatments may be necessary.