Laser Vein Removal - Facial Vein Treatment

Laser Vein Removal
Brandeis Medical Center

The Brandeis Medical Center offers laser removal of unwanted, unsightly veins on the face, legs and any part of the body. Laser treatment is a safe and effective method for removal of unwanted veins. In just a few treatment sessions (and in some cases only a single treatment session) using the gentle power of lasers, you can greatly improve the appearance of skin which is disfigured by unwanted blood vessels and broken capillaries

How does laser removal of unwanted veins work?
The laser generates a pulse of intense, concentrated light which is directed through a small, cooled hand piece which is placed over the area to be treated. This laser energy passes through the skin to the blood vessels which you wish to have eliminated. The energy is absorbed by pigment in the blood, causing selective damage to the lining of the target blood vessel without damaging the surrounding tissues and skin. The blood heats the blood vessel, which dies off and is reabsorbed by the body. The flow of blood is re-directed away from the surface of the skin, back down beneath the skin where it should have been in the first place.
What areas of the body can be treated?
All parts of the body can be treated. In women, the most common areas for treatment are blood vessels on the thighs, lower legs and ankles. In men and women unwanted red blood vessels on the nose and face, including those associated with rosacea or sun damage can be treated.
What are the benefits of laser removal of unwanted blood vessels compared to sclerotherapy?
Small blood vessels which are difficult or impossible to treat with sclerotherapy respond very well to laser vein removal. Because only a beam of laser light is used, there is less risk of bruising compared with injection sclerotherapy which punctures the skin and the wall of the blood vessel. Because the skin is not pierced, there is no need for bandages, tape or support stockings after laser treatment of veins. Laser removal of unwanted veins avoids the discomfort and downtime associated with sclerotherapy.
How much does it cost?
The cost is approximately $125 for 15 minutes.
What are the risks of laser vein removal?
Short-term side effects may include a reddening of the skin over the treated vessels or local swelling which typically lasts less than a day, although it may infrequently last for a few days. Occasionally there can be increased or decreased pigment in the treated area. This usually resolves after several months. A blister is unusual, and generally will resolve within a week or two with some Polysporin or Aloe Vera. Bruising can occur occasionally when treating vessels on the legs and usually resolves within a few weeks without needing any treatment.

Is laser removal of veins "permanent"?
There is no treatment for veins which can guarantee anybody "permanent vein removal". The most realistic description of the results after laser treatment is "long term vein reduction". This means that after several treatments the total number of unsightly veins is greatly reduced -- generally by 70% to 90%." Most people are very pleased with this degree of improvement, as long ...