Leg Veins

Millions of Americans are bothered by the appearance of veins on their thighs, calves, and ankles. These veins can either be small, thin capillaries (spider veins) or larger veins that we call reticular veins. The very largest veins are called varicose veins. There are many factors that contribute to the development of these unsightly veins including pregnancy, weight gain, prolonged standing, and even family history. When excess pressure builds up in the blood vessels, the body tends to release it by adding more veins. Very small veins, about the size of a hair are called spider veins and can often be red, blue or purple. Not only are spider veins unsightly, but they can also cause aching, swelling and burning in the legs.

Reticular veins are those blue veins that lie well below the skin's surface and are larger than the spider veins. They often are the source of spider veins and must also be removed in order to achieve a long-term result in your treatment. Finally, varicose veins are quite large, and tend to bulge with a rope-like texture on the skin's surface. They are likely to cause pain and be related to more serious vein disorders. Veins larger than 4 millimeters wide are usually outside the realm of treatments available at New Image Laser Cosmetics and are best treated by a vascular surgeon.

At New Image Laser Cosmetics, spider veins and reticular veins are treated very effectively and relatively pain-free using Laserscope's Lyra-i. This laser is FDA approved to treat veins in patients of all skin types, including tanned skin. After carefully evaluating your condition, Dr. Noe will discuss what treatment options he believes will best satisfy your desires.
The cost of vein treatment varies greatly and is dependant on how extensive the problem is and how long we estimate it will take. Most treatments last 15 minutes. As always, the initial consultation is FREE.

About the Procedure

Laser vein removal is surprisingly fast, relatively pain-free and very effective. The laser energy destroys the vein without damaging the skin above. The laser beam passes through the skin and its energy absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessel. This heats the vessel and destroys it. Over the next 4 to 8 weeks, the body will break down the vessel and carry it away, and the vessel will fade away much like what you see with a bruise. During the treatment, you will feel a slight tingling sensation at the treatment site each time the laser fires. Some people describe it as a static electric spark. The skin above the vessel will soon take on a reddish "cat scratch" appearance. You may expect to see this for a few hours to a few days. If you desire, topical anesthetics can be applied to the treatment site to decrease any discomfort you may feel, but this is generally not necessary.

Associated Risks

The risks associated with laser vein therapy are minimal. You will be given a special pair of goggles to protect your eyes at all times during the treatment. There is a small risk of discoloration of the skin at the site of treatment. When this happens it is often temporary and its occurrence can be reduced by avoiding the sun or using a sun block of SPF-30 after the treatment. The risks involved will be discussed in detail during your initial consultation.