Advances in laser technology are improving so that leg veins sometimes referred to as varicose veins or spider veins can safely be removed using laser light without leaving a scar. When the dilated blood vessels are hit by the laser light they are sealed so the blood can no longer flow into the vessel. The high energy long pulse Excel laser is used at Timeless Skin Solutions.

What can be done to prevent noticeable leg veins?

Avoid standing in one spot for long periods. If the blood vessels are large, support hose should be worn to help prevent dilation of these vessels. Avoid the tourniquet effect that often occurs when knee-high or thigh high length stockings are worn. Lose weight. Do not cross the legs. Elevate the feet higher than the ankles when convenient. Avoid high impact aerobics which can dilate veins.

How do vascular removal lasers work?

The pulse dye laser is effective because the wave length of light that penetrates the skin has a selective affinity for blood vessels. It passes harmlessly through the top layer of epidermis of the skin leaving it essentially intact. When it hits the targeted blood vessels it causes a microscopic fragmentation of the blood cells. The dispersed blood cells, in the form of a bruise, are then carried away by the body’s collecting cells, leaving normal behind normal skin.

The high energy long pulse lasers also have a selective affinity for blood vessels. When it targets the blood vessel it causes it to seal so blood no longer can enter the vessel.

Does a treatment with a vascular removal laser hurt?

The light from the lasers is emitted in pulses. Each pulse feels like someone has snapped an elastic band against the skin. Most adults tolerate this amount of pain very well. An anesthetic cream can be provided to ease the discomfort. The Excel laser has a chilled tip which is applied to the skin both before and after the laser pulse. The cooling effect protects the superficial layers of the skin from heat damage and reduces the discomfort.

How does the skin look and feel after a treatment with a vascular removal laser?

A burning sensation may be experienced for one or two hours after a treatment session. An analgesic such as Tylenol™ can be taken one hour prior to treatment and this will help with procedural discomfort. Aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided because of their blood thinning properties.

When the dye laser is used, a deep purple discoloration of the skin, similar to a bruise may be evident for 7 to 14 days after the treatment. This fades to a pink or beige color that may take up to six weeks to disappear entirely. In some cases the treatment site may take 3 to 6 months to return to a normal skin tone. The treated area will be swollen for 2 to 6 days after a treatment with these lasers. In the majority of cases the top layer of the skin is left intact; however, occasionally a superficial crusting may occur. In this case, the treated area is covered with an antibiotic and a non-stick dressing. The dressing is changed daily until the area heals.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatment sessions and length of a session depends on the size, location and depth of the lesion. These factors also determine how much the surgery will cost.

Are the vascular removal lasers safe?

Yes, the Excel lasers are safe. Because the energy from the laser beam is absorbed by the abnormal vasculature and does not affect the surrounding tissue the risk of scarring is very low. Safety goggles must be worn by the patient and the laser surgeon during the procedure to protect the eyes from the bright light.

What are the possible complications associated with vascular removal laser therapy?

Postoperative complications from treatment with a vascular removal laser are very rare. However, with any surgery there are inherent risks. The potential adverse side effects from laser therapy for vascular lesions include: scarring, crusting, thinning of the skin, change in the color of the skin (brownish to loss of color), or a slight depression at the treatment site.

Can anyone with a vascular lesion have laser therapy?

There are some people who would not be candidates for this therapy. People who are sensitive to light due to hereditary disease or medication are not candidates for this treatment. Also, patients who have seizures triggered by light should not receive this therapy. Very dark skin individuals tend to develop hypopigmentation when treated with the Excel laser. .