ND:YAG Laser Treatment of Facial Spider Veins

Problems with unsightly veins are very common with nearly two thirds of people over the age of 60 suffering from some kind of venous problem especially varicose veins and spider veins. Development of spider veins on the face are often the result of excessive sun exposure and the development of rosacea.

Spider Veins

Spider veins although similar to varicose veins are much closer to the surface of the skin and are usually red or purple. These veins are most commonly found on the face and legs and appear like a spider's web with short jagged lines.

Treatment of Spider Veins

Superficial veins, like spider veins, can be treated extremely effectively with laser therapy. The energy from an Nd:YAG laser is absorbed by the blood in the vein, changed into heat and the vein walls destroyed. This process is perfectly safe as other healthy veins will supply blood to the treated area and the body will clear the dead tissue as it clears a bruise. Some patients may only need one treatment but usually up to 3 treatments are required to clear the skin of the spider vein completely. Until the development of the newer ND:YAG lasers, sclerotherapy was the treatment of choice for smaller leg veins. Laser therapy of small leg veins is now comparable to scerotherpy for treatment efficacy.

For after care to optimize treatment results, we recommend ace wraps or 20-30mm support stockings for three days post-treatment. They may be removed for showering. Avoid hot baths for three days. Avoid exercise for three days post-treatment as well. Increasing blood flow to the treated areas of the legs, may help the body re-cannulate the vessels to re-form rather than resolve.

For any irritation post-treatment, apply aloe gel as often as needed. Wear a sunblock for 6 weeks post-treatment. Facial skin may become swollen and sore for a few days post-treatment. Aloe gel can be helpful. Hydrocortisone 1% Ointment also may be very helpful in improving the symptoms quickly.

Blood vessels on the nose have a higher penchant for recurring than other facial vessels after treatment and are more likely to require re-treatment.

Before and After Images