Leg veins

Superficial leg veins (spider veins) have traditionally been treated with sclerotherapy (microfine injections into the vein to stimulate closure of the vein).

Superficial leg veins can be treated with Nd-Yag laser. A consultation will be required prior to a treatment session to determine whether your veins are suitable for treatment at that consultation. A test patch might be performed to determine the most efficient energies for treatment.

How the laser works

Highly focused light energy from the laser targets and heats the blood pooled within the vein to very high temperatures without affecting surrounding skin. The 2 edges of the vein wall are “stuck” together with the coagulated blood. Over time the vein collapses and disappears.

Before the procedure

• Avoid tanning for at least 2 weeks
• Avoid fake tan for 2 weeks
• Regular exercise is recommended
• If you work at a sedentary job, try and take regular breaks and walk around.

During the procedure

• When the laser fires you will experience a quick sharp hot sting.
• For most people the treatment is tolerable with numbing cream
• The laser has an inbuilt cooling system which helps with the pain.
• Often response can be seen immediately but may take up to 6 weeks
• A repeated treatment will be required in most cases. The number of treatments varies.
• At the end of the treatment a pressure bandage will be applied which should be kept intact for 24 hours.

After the procedure

• Avoid hot baths
• Avoid high intensity aerobic exercise for 48 hours. Walking, Yoga, Reformer Pilates is ok.
• Practice strict sun protection to avoid pigment alterations for at least 4 weeks post treatment
• As appearance of leg spider veins is part of the aging process and your particular genetics, new veins may appear over 1-2 years. These HAVE NOT been caused by the leg vein laser treatment. A “tidy up “treatment can be performed safely and effectively every 1-2 years as needed.

Complications /Risks

If the vein treated takes up too much energy, a blister, bruise, superficial wound may occur which may lead to a pinpoint white scar. This is very rare. If this occurs clean with saline (1 teaspoon salt to 1 cup boiled cooled water) and apply Vaseline and contact the practice.

Pigment changes:  increased or decreased pigment may occur due to the necessary inflammation created by the laser. This may lead to post inflammatory hypo (decreased) or hyper (increased) pigment. In the majority of cases this resolves but may take up to 6 months or longer.