Laser Vein Removal for the Face
At The Museum Spa & Laser Center we treat spider veins and broken capillaries of the face with the Harmony XL 515nm by Alma Laser. This laser emits light of a specific wavelength that is absorbed by the blood vessel, heating and destroying it, without damaging the surrounding tissue. The laser involves minimal discomfort and patients can usually go back to work immediately. After the first treatment you may notice the veins getting darker or a possible slight bruise. After approximately one week you will see a definite improvement in the treated area. We normally recommend two to three treatments, about a month apart.
How Does it Work?
The HarmonyXL system from Alma Lasers, utilizing Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT™). It employs an advanced algorithm that stabilizes each pulse to ensure predictable, reproducible treatments that are safe and effective. An intense light is produced that is applied in a series of gentle pulses over the treatment area. The light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by and heats the pigmentation and/or abnormally dilated vessels, causing remarkably little or no skin damage. Clinical trials conducted by leading authorities on pulsed light document its safety and effectiveness.
Facial Telangiectasia
Before
Pulsed Light Treatment of Facial Veins
Laser Vein Removal is a proven method for treating spider veins and facial veins (small red veins on nose and face) as well as other unwanted vascular lesions associated with rosacea and port wine stains.
As one ages a variety of pigmented or vascular abnormalities can accumulate on the face. These unsightly lesions include broken capillaries on the nose and cheeks, medium and smaller vessels on other facial areas, hemangiomas, port wine stains, rosacea and poikiloderma. All of these can be treated with pulsed light, which can be applied to small facial areas or the entire face.
In the case of vascular lesions the heat causes the vessel to close off. With pigmented lesions, the light energy heats the melanin in the lesion and causes it to fragment. The melanin fragments are then absorbed by the body and eliminated.
A full-face treatment typically lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. Smaller areas, such as the nose, can be treated in 15 minutes. For best results repeated treatments are often required. Before treatment a cold gel is usually applied to the area to be treated. Then precise pulses of light are applied to the target area. Patients report little or no pain with AFT treatment, it is generally described as a rubber band snap.
The light pulse is then delivered with little or no discomfort. After treatment, the gel is removed and the skin is cleansed. You can resume all regular activities. Immediately following treatment the skin may appear flushed, brown pigmented spots may appear darker and capillaries may be more visible. To help guarantee the best results, limit your exposure to the sun for several weeks before and after treatment. After an initial course of therapy follow-up treatments may be desired once a year to maintain results.
How does the treatment work?
The laser emits a specialized light that passes through the skin and is absorbed by the vein. The laser causes the vein to break up and be absorbed by the body.
How many treatments are required?
The majority of the treated veins will disappear within two to three treatments which are administered in intervals of a minimum of 4 weeks. Additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the maximum long-term effects. New veins may appear with time and require additional treatments.
Is Laser Vein Removal safe?
Laser therapy is safe and has few possible complications. Common side effects include bruising, redness and discomfort around the treated area. These effects are not dangerous and resolve over time. Limiting sun exposure will greatly minimize the risk of complications.
What are the benefits of Laser Vein Removal over other treatments?
The benefits of Laser Vein Removal over other therapies are that there is no downtime, and it is faster than other therapies.
What can be expected post-treatment?
After treatment, a sunburned sensation may occur, and some redness may appear around the treated area. This will disappear in a few days. A cold compress may be applied to the treated area.
Who are candidates for Laser Vein Removal?
Clients with spider veins on their face are candidates for Laser Vein Removal.
Who should avoid Laser Vein Removal?
Clients taking high doses of blood-thinners are generally not candidates for Laser Vein Removal. Also, clients with dark suntans, bleeding disorders or those currently taking photosensitizing medications may also want to avoid Laser Vein Removal.
How does the treatment feel?
Most Laser Vein Removal clients report little discomfort and describe it as either as a mild burning sensation or similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin.
What are the alternative treatments?
An alternative to Laser Vein Removal is sclerotherapy, which is a solution injected into a targeted area of skin to reduce spider veins. There are anywhere from five to forty injections per treatment.
Is additional treatment necessary?
The number of treatments necessary to resolve your veins depends on the size of the vein and your body’s ability to heal. Future treatments may be necessary to remove new vein growth.
Instructions for before treatment:
Avoid sun tanning or tanning products for three weeks prior to treatment. Discontinue Accutane® for six months and Retin-A or other retinol for three days prior to treatment. Aspirin and other blood thinners should also be avoided for at least three days before treatment.
Instructions for after treatment:
If necessary, over-the-counter pain medication may be taken. Cool compresses may be helpful in reducing pain, redness and swelling. Avoid massaging the treated area, and avoid the sun for at least two weeks after treatment.