How does laser vein removal work

The Cutera nD-YAG laser beam targets the blood vessels. The heat generated from the laser coagulates the blood inside the vessel, causing the capillary walls to collapse and seal.  Over the next few weeks, the vessel will disappear, and all the blood will be removed by the body’s scavenging cells. The Cutera nD-YAG laser treatment allows delivery of the precise dosage of energy to each blood vessel without injuring any nearby structures.

Am I a candidate for laser vein removal

Spider veins do not cause symptoms and are only of cosmetic concern. For those who have symptoms, a referral to a vascular surgeon may be necessary. Laser vein removal is most effective for the very small spider veins and is not used to treat varicose veins.

Does it hurt

We use the Cutera nD-YAG system which is considered the gold standard in laser technology and is FDA approved. The laser contains a triple sapphire cooling tip to cool before, during and after each pulse to ensure high comfort for all laser vein removal treatments. During the treatment you may feel a slight stinging sensation as the laser fires. This can be likened to a hot elastic band flick.

How do I prepare for the treatments

There are no major preparations required before the laser treatment, but you must avoid sun exposure and any blood thinning medications for at least a week prior to the treatment. Please avoid all creams and moisturisers on the area that is going to be treated and do not have self tan present. Avoid any waxing 24 hours prior to treatment on the area.  On the day please wear loose fitting clothing.

How many treatments would I need and how long does the treatment last

Once the vein has been successfully treated and your body has reabsorbed them they will not return this may take between 3-4 treatments every 6-8 weeks. However, because of genetics and other factors you will likely form new veins in different area over the coming years that may require more treatment.  These are new veins that weren’t initially there during your initial treatments.

Will I require a skin test patch

Yes, once your practitioner has deemed you the right candidate for laser vein removal you will be required by UK law to have a patch test. This is a few shots of the laser in the area to be treated. You will then need to wait 24-48 hours to have the full procedure