Spider veins are small, thread-like veins that look like red or purple spider webs just under the surface of your skin. They usually appear on the legs, face and hands, but may appear on the chest. They are cosmetically unappealing and most people would like them to disappear but don’t want the cost or risk of surgery. Fortunately, external laser therapy is a treatment for spider veins that may completely eliminate them.
What is External Laser Therapy?
External laser therapy is effective for removing most spider veins. It can be an ideal treatment for veins that do not qualify for other treatments or for people who are resistant to common sclerotherapy, who are allergic to sclerosing agents or for people who have a low tolerance for needles. The treatment works on the surface of the skin, where the treatment device delivers a precise amount of energy to the affected vein without damaging surrounding tissue or skin.
It is estimated that half of the adult women in the U.S. have spider veins on the legs. The most common cause of spider veins is heredity. Other causes are hormonal changes such as pregnancy, taking birth control pills, weight gain and long periods of standing. Most people have treatment to remove these veins because they are unattractive, but they may also cause uncomfortable symptoms such as burning and swelling, cramps and aches. Treatment will relieve the symptoms as well as improve your appearance.
What Can I Expect from External Laser Therapy?
Your spider veins may be diagnosed during a consultation with our medical team and the right treatment will be recommended. The treatment is done as an outpatient procedure and is proven for safety and efficacy. A hand-held device is used to trace your spider veins with the laser. The light turns to heat as it touches the vein, causing it to gently collapse. Gradually, the spider veins will be absorbed by the surrounding tissue. The process only takes a few minutes and there is no downtime afterwards. If the treatment was for spider veins on your legs, you may be asked to wear compression stockings after the treatment to maintain good circulation. For tiny veins on the face that cannot be treated with sclerotherapy, external laser therapy is the most common treatment.
When Should I Get External Laser Therapy?
It is recommended to have external laser therapy at least three weeks before you plan to expose your legs or face to the sun. Immediately after the treatment, the veins may look inflamed while they are healing. This is because any disruption of the skin may cause the melanin to become active. Sun tanning or tanning beds may cause excessive pigmentation. You should wait for three to four weeks after external laser treatment for spider veins before going on a vacation at the beach.
Today, you have the option of using a minimally invasive treatment to remove spider veins on your face, legs, hands and chest. After diagnosing your condition using several factors, external laser therapy may be recommended to remove spider veins in a safe, comfortable and effective way.
Schedule a consultation at Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center in El Segundo to learn more about external laser therapy. We serve the Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Contact us today to book your appointment!