Laser vein removal
The use of a laser is an effective and safe way to treat the unsightly blood vessels visible on the skin surface with minimal discomfort. The small blood vessels that appear through the skin surface which look like tiny red or blue lines, also known as spider veins, can now be effectively treated with the use of a laser. As well, the red dots that arise on the skin surface itself, also known as cherry spots, can also be removed.
At our clinic, the Nd Yag 1064 laser is employed to send pulses of laser energy in the appropriate wavelength to penetrate the skin surface reaching these target vessels below. The laser targets the pigment in the blood of the vessel allowing it to avoid damage to the surrounding tissue and skin surface. The laser heats the blood within the vein causing the vessel walls to collapse on each other. Over several weeks, the vessel becomes barely perceivable or not visible at all.
Side effects of this treatment are minimal with essentially no downtime after treatment. Patients may experience some mild swelling or redness. This usually subsides within hours of treatment but may last up to one to two days. There is a small chance of pigment change or blistering. These usually subside over a number of weeks. Very rarely, scar formation can occur.
The treatment itself takes only a few minutes with less discomfort experienced than older treatment methods and technologies. Most people describe the sensation like a bug sting. Pre-treatment with a topical anaesthetic or the use of Tylenol™ can be employed to minimize discomfort.
The number of treatments and sessions required will depend on the severity of the problem. This can be discussed at the time of consultation.
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