Laser Vein Treatment

Spider Veins or Telangiactasias are those small, red, pink and blue blood vessels that appear most frequently on the face and legs. In contrast, varicose veins are usually larger in diameter and may appear raised with bluish color. Several types of lasers are used to treat these conditions. The Cutera CoolGlide Excel laser treats spider veins and is the only laser on the market that treats all skin tones safely. Smaller spider veins are treated with our Varilite laser, an effective laser that treats bright red blood vessels.

These lasers deliver pulses of light energy which causes the blood within the vein to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessels. Treatments take anywhere from a few minutes up to an hour, depending on the number of vessels. The number of treatments needed varies depending on the patient.

Pre-treatment guidelines:

• No caffeine 4 hours prior to treatment

• Ibuprofen: 800mg (4 tablets) 30 minutes prior to treatment

• Come with treatment area clean and no make-up on face

• No treament on anyone who is pregnant or taking Accutane

Areas of Treatment

Leg Veins

Spider veins, or superficial blue and red veins of the legs, are treated one to three times at intervals of four to six weeks. Immediate skin redness over the vessels is common, but temporary. Large vessels (up to 4mm in diameter) can be treated and usually benefit from compression stockings for several days after treatment.

Facial Veins

Small damaged capillaries or blood vessels around the nose and cheeks respond well after several laser treatments. Red or blue blood vessel less than 1/8 inch in diameter can be successfully treated with the Varilite laser.

Rosacea

This skin condition arises from dilation of very tiny superficial capillaries in the skin - usually on the cheeks and sun-exposed areas. Multiple treatments are usually needed to clear the majority of the "blushing". Combining ancillary treatments, such as topical creams will help the clear the Rosacea.

Cherry Hermangioms

These bright red spots on the torso, neck and extremities are easily treated, ususally with just one treatment. The spots will turn dark brown immediately and then flake off after one to two weeks. There is generally no scarring or discomfort.

Red/Purple Birthmarks

Known as "Port Wine Stains", these vascular skin problems can be treated in three to five treatments, resulting in significant fading or elimination without scarring.