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Spider veins are wavy, thin, reddish-purple veins that are visible on the
legs and face. Often they are clustered on the thigh or below the knee.
Spider veins, or telangiectasis, affect as many as 80% of all women as
they grow older, and a large percentage of men too. The cause is largely
genetic, although other culprits include pregnancy, childbirth, use of
birth control pills, estrogen-replacement therapy, previous injury and use
of corticosteroids.
Telangiectasias are not usually a medical problem, but they may make
wearing bathing suits, shorts and other summer type clothing uncomfortable.
In the past, sclerotherapy was the only effective treatment of spider
veins of the legs. But now laser technology has revolutionized treatment
so that many spider veins can be virtually erased.
The Versapulse® Aesthetic Laser produces short, adjustable pulses of light
to treat a wide range of vessel diameters at various skin depths. The
adjustable pulses minimize the risk of purplish bruising (purpura) that is
a side effect of other lasers.
Laser treatments for leg telangiectasis depend on the quantity, size, and
depth of the veins. Most patients need between one and three 30 minute
sessions, spaced 8-12 weeks apart.
Before |
After |
The CoolTouch VariaTM is an exciting new laser that we have added for
the treatment of spider veins. Because it has a longer wave length, the VariaTM gives us excellent results treating stubborn blue and dark purple veins
on the legs and face. Larger, more varicose veins of the legs are responding
beautifully after two to three treatments. The cryogen spray cooling system (Thermal
Quenching) protects the epidermis and makes the treatments comfortable for
the patient.
Before |
After |
The laser treatment itself feels like numerous small snaps with a rubber
band. Most patients do not require anesthesia during the procedure.
Topical or local anesthesia is available for those who do.
The appearance of the treated area immediately after a laser session will
vary from patient to patient, depending upon the extent of treatment.
Immediate after-effects, if any, are minor. They may include redness,
light crusting, or tenderness, all of which disappear in a short time.
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