Laser Vein Treatments
Millions of Americans suffer from unsightly spider veins or broken capillaries on the face. Spider veins get their name from their appearance, which can look like a spider's legs or in more extreme cases like a spider web. These distinct blue or purple veins also can resemble tiny tree branches, and generally occur in clusters. They are not a medical concern, but they may be the result of an underlying medical condition and many people find them to be an embarrassing cosmetic nuisance. Broken capillaries beneath the facial skin are generally associated with rosacea.
Drs. Andrew Goldberg and Mitchel Krieger specialize in laser vein removal in Fairfax, Virginia. Laser vein removal is an easy, fast, and effective way to clear up the discoloration associated with these conditions.
If you would like to learn more about laser vein treatments, click here to request a complimentary consultation at the Virginia cosmetic surgery practice of Drs. Goldberg and Krieger.
Eliminating Spider Veins
Spider veins and broken capillaries are superficial veins which no longer function properly, due to an accumulation of blood which has "backed up" within the vein walls. Removal of these veins does not affect circulation, as blood is naturally re-routed to the healthy, functioning veins. People develop spider veins for a number of reasons, which include pregnancy and heredity. Broken capillaries in the face are often associated with a skin condition called rosacea. While it is difficult to prevent the formation of these veins, it is fairly easy to eliminate them using modern technology.
There are different approaches to the elimination of distinct facial veins and capillaries, but the optimal treatment is laser. The laser used for vein treatment utilizes a specific wavelength of light that targets only the darker pigment of the blood in the vein. This allows the laser to heat the vein without damaging the surrounding tissue. The heat from the laser causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. The body then breaks down and eliminates the vein over the course of 4 to 6 weeks.
Laser treatment works most effectively on small, superficial veins, rather than deeper or larger veins. The discomfort associated with the procedure is minor, usually described by our Virginia cosmetic surgery patients as a tingling sensation. Typically, 2 or 3 treatments are required for complete vein removal, and these treatments are generally scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart. While laser treatments effectively remove existing veins, they do not prevent the formation of new ones - additional treatments may be required as new visible veins develop.
Next Steps
We offer many resources related to laser vein treatment. You can download home care instructions to learn what steps you should take during recovery and even print a treatment consent form to bring with you during your first visit.
If you are interested in finding out more about laser vein removal, click here to request a complimentary consultation with one of our Virginia plastic surgeons. Or you can call Goldberg & Krieger Board Certified Plastic Surgeons toll free at 888-245-6513 to make an appointment.
