The 1064 YAG Laser Treatment causes selective heating of the target with minimal to no heating of the non-targeted tissue. For vascular lesions, the target is hemoglobin. During treatment, the target absorbs the laser light and rapidly increases in temperature altering the cells of the skin or vessel. No needles or incisions are used, but the heat from the laser can be quite painful. Cooling helps reduce the pain. Laser treatments last for 15 to 20 minutes.
Generally, 2 to 5 treatments are needed to remove spider veins in the legs. Laser therapy usually isn't effective for varicose veins larger than 3 mm (about a tenth of an inch).
This technique sends very strong bursts of light through the skin onto the vein. This makes the vein slowly fade and disappear. You can return to normal activity right after treatment. Not all skin types and colors can be safely treated with lasers.
How it Works
The 1064 YAG Laser Treatment causes selective heating of the target with minimal to no heating of the non-targeted tissue. For vascular lesions, the target is hemoglobin. During treatment, the target absorbs the laser light and rapidly increases in temperature altering the cells of the skin or vessel.
Who is a Candidate for Laser Vein Reduction?
At Stockton Dermatology, patients receive personalized care that is carefully planned around their cosmetic goals and desired outcome. With that said, laser vein reduction using our powerful 1064 YAG laser platform is appropriate for the majority of cases of superficial veins and other vascular concerns. To ensure the best outcomes, the doctor performs a thorough consultation and examination before recommending a vein reduction procedure. Some veins, such as large or severe varicose veins, may require more extensive treatment protocols, such as sclerotherapy or microphlebectomy.
Is Laser Vein Reduction painful?
No. Laser vein reduction is conducted through the skin. There are no incisions or punctures made to stimulate vein closure. No anesthetic is needed and patients typically have very few side effects, if any, from their treatment. Because the laser energy is passing through the skin during treatment, patients may experience momentary zapping sensations that feel like a rubber-band snapping the skin. These zaps may feel odd but are not painful.
How can I prepare for Laser Vein Reduction?
Before laser treatments of any kind, patients are typically advised to avoid excessive UV exposure. This applies both to natural sunlight and tanning beds. Lasers generally work better when there is more contrast between skin tone and the target which, in this case, is the hemoglobin trapped in spider veins. In addition to avoiding excessive sun and UV exposure, adults interested in laser vein reduction should also avoid using self-tanning lotions in the weeks prior to their treatment.
How long does it take for veins to disappear after laser treatment?
Veins begin to shut down within days after laser vein treatment. While subtle changes may begin to develop within a week or two, it can take several weeks and multiple treatments for the body to fully process and eliminate the closed veins.
What is recovery like from Laser Vein Reduction?
Patients may resume normal activities after their laser vein treatments. It is beneficial to avoid sun exposure while undergoing any laser treatment because exposure to UV light can make the skin more sensitive to light.
Because laser vein treatment is so conservative, patients may have no activity restrictions other than this one. They may go back to work and even exercise at their normal pace and intensity without increasing treatment side effects.
How long does it take for veins to disappear after laser treatment?
Veins begin to shut down within days after laser vein treatment. While subtle changes may begin to develop within a week or two, it can take several weeks and multiple treatments for the body to fully process and eliminate the closed veins.
How many laser sessions does it take to remove spider veins?
Every person is different in their response to noninvasive laser vein reduction treatment. To experience substantial resolution of visible veins or vascular lesions, a provider may recommend between 3 and 6 sessions. After each, the treatment area can be assessed for response and, if necessary, adjustments to the treatment may be made to achieve the best results.
Can Veins come back after Laser Treatment?
Laser vein treatment targets the blood that has pooled in the visible veins. The heat generated within the target veins causes the blood to coagulate. The thickening of the blood and blood vessel walls causes the veins to close off and fade away. The treated veins are closed and get absorbed by the body, so they do not return. However, vein treatment cannot prevent new spider veins from forming in the future. Patients may maintain a healthy, active lifestyle to decrease their risks, and may schedule treatments as needed if new spider veins become problematic.
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