Spider veins, or telangiectasia can occur anywhere, but most
commonly on the face and legs. Laser treatment targets a focused
beam if light energy into the vein, causing coagulation of
the blood vessel which is then slowly reabsorbed by the body.
At
Imago, we use a MeDioStar diode laser, with a special vein
hand piece. The specific wavelength of this laser system is
actually designed for hair removal but is also effective on
BLUE veins.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You will need a consultation with the physician
to review your medical history and determine skin type as well
as to determine whether our laser can help you.
If you’re a
suitable candidate, then we can proceed with the first treatment,
which usually takes 15-30 mins. As the laser energy is delivered
along the length of the problem vessels, you may experience
a feeling of heat or “prickling”. After the first treatment
the vein(s) will change color, or the outline may become more
“blurred”.
IS THERE ANY RECOVERY?
There will be some bruising around the
treated area initially, which will resolve within the first
week. A brown pigment may persist in the skin for a few weeks.
We
advise you to wear support hose for the first 24-72 hrs. The
only restrictions on activities are to avoid vigorous exercise
and heat (hot tubs and saunas) for the first 24 hrs.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Most people need multiple
treatments and results are varied. The average number of treatments
is 4. Sometimes new veins appear and further treatment is required
for these.
WHAT OTHER TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
For very fine red veins
on the face, Intense Pulsed Light therapy (photorejuvenation)
is effective.
Larger leg veins (more that 0.5cm) will require sclerotherapy,
which involves injecting a sclerosing solution into the vein
through a micro-needle. This treatment is not yet available
at Imago. Many vascular surgeons offer this treatment and we
would be happy to give you a referral.
For predominantly red
leg veins, you would need to find a practitioner with a laser
system specific for treating vascular lesions and red veins.
