Laser Treatment of Facial Veins

Let's face it: even though your facial spider veins, or telangiectasias, are not a medical problem, they are still an aesthetic one. Even though they're a normal part of aging, it doesn't mean you want them. Unfortunately, they can be hard to cover up with makeup - so what can you do?

In the past, there was little you could do about spider veins on your face. Standard treatment was electrodessication, which involved closing the vein using an electric current; but this unfortunately often left pitted or white scarring.

Because of improvements in technology there are now more viable cures, and many telangiectasias can be virtually erased. New treatments involve laser technology. This is a non-surgical treatment where a laser is aimed at the area in question and the energy from the laser seals the veins shut. They can then be reabsorbed by the body.

Laser treatment of facial veins uses lasers of a specific color, or wavelength, to target the veins. Because different pigments and tissues absorb different wavelengths of light, the use of a colored laser minimizes the laser's effect on the skin surrounding the veins. When looking for the laser treatment that is right for you, you may also want to seek out a treatment where the laser pulses, which will minimize bruising. A treatment that cools the skin during the procedure also enhances your comfort and safety.

Most laser therapy sessions last around ten minutes, and one to three sessions are generally needed. Sessions will be four to six weeks apart. Of course, this will vary with the quantity, size, and depth of the veins. The procedure will feel like small snaps with a rubber band, but patients do not normally require anesthesia.

After treatment, your face will feel tender and you may notice some redness of light crusting, which will disappear in a short amount of time. The appearance of the area will change gradually after treatment so don't be alarmed if you don't notice a difference right away.