Leg Veins

Spider veins, the bundles of small red or blue veins that form near the surface of the skin, are an often embarrassing but common condition found in millions of adults. They are typically caused by poor blood circulation due to years of prolonged periods of standing or sitting, shifts in hormonal levels, and childbirth. Often, they are associated with underlying larger varicose veins.  Leg veins can either be small, thin capillaries called 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 genetic predisposition.

The best techniques used to treat spider and reticular veins are  Laser and/or Injection (Sclerotherapy) vein removal. At LaserPro Cosmetic, a combination of laser and Sclerotherapy is used to achieve the best results.

Laser Leg Vein

How Does Laser Treat Leg Veins?
Highly controlled flashes of laser light are selectively absorbed by hemoglobin found in red blood cells in the veins. The absorbed light heats the hemoglobin, causing the blood to clot. The vein then collapses and is slowly removed by the body’s natural filtering systems. As the laser is not absorbed by the skin around the veins, there are no scarring or visible marks left by the laser!

Summary of Patient Benefits
• Closure of vascular structures
• Few side effects
• Treatment customization
• Speed and convenience
• Fast return to daily activities

How many treatments are needed?
Many leg veins need multiple treatments, often over a few months before the effect is complete. Even small vessels often require time to resolve. Typically, you can expect three sessions or more to achieve the appearance you desire.

What is a treatment like? Is it painful?
A pulse of laser energy feels like a pinch similar to a snapped rubber band. Most patients describe a tingling sensation during the brief time the laser is actually firing. However, because we offer cooling gel, and for the more sensitive patient we also offer topical anesthetic cream, you will be quite comfortable while undergoing these treatments.

Are these vein treatments permanent?
The removal of spider and reticular leg veins is not an exact science. Most patients achieve a significant reduction in the appearance of their veins and are very satisfied with the treatments. Of course, aging begins the moment the treatment ends. In addition, other factors such as standing and genetics continue. We recommend a single yearly treatment to “clean up” any new veins that appear.

What preparations must I make?
There are no changes in activities, before or after leg vein treatment. Prior to and following any leg vein treatment, you must limit your exposure to the sun. Treatment should not be performed on tanned skin. You are required to wear compression stocking for one week after treatment.

What kind of results should I expect?
Some immediate improvement is typically visible, with the leg veins, blotches and/or blemishes disappearing over two to three weeks. Complications, such as scarring, bleeding and pigment loss, are very rare. Most patients return to their regular routines quickly with virtually no after-care required. However, you may experience some redness around the treated area, similar in appearance to mild sunburn. This usually goes away in a few days.

Are the leg vein treatments safe?
There are a few uncommon risks associated with both laser and injection leg vein therapy. These include pigment changes and blistering. However, our highly skilled doctor is specially trained in the use of the lasers and injection therapy, the occurrence of these events when doing leg vein treatments is rare. Additionally, your eyes will be shielded during all treatments.

Sclerotherapy Leg Vein

Sclerotherapy is the Gold Standard for eliminating spider veins. It is relatively painless and is performed in the office.

FDA approved medication  is injected into the spider vein using a microfine needle. The solution washes over the tiny cells, which line the inner wall of blood vessels, dries them out, and causes them to shrink. Within a few weeks, the blood vessels fade away. The work of carrying the blood is shifted to other healthy blood vessels nearby, consequently improving circulation

What do I need to know about the procedure?
Sclerotherapy is a very effective spider vein treatment. 10 to 40 veins may be treated in one session. When spider veins are interconnected, injection into one site may fade the entire network; otherwise, individual injections are necessary. Sometimes several sessions are needed to clear the veins satisfactorily.

What about Laser treatments?
Sclerotherapy can be performed in conjunction with laser treatment to maximize the clearing of the veins and to minimize the side-effects.

What is so special about Dr. Vu’s treatments?
Successful results depend upon technique and require repeated sessions performed by the doctor. The combination Laser and Sclerotherapy along with skill by the doctor using the microneedle,  fades and gradually eliminates the veins.   The vast majority of patients having this procedure are highly satisfied with their results.

How long do the results last?
The removal of spider and reticular leg veins is not an exact science by sclerotherapy. Most patients achieve a significant reduction in the appearance of their veins and are very satisfied with the treatments. Of course, aging begins the moment the treatment ends. In addition, other factors such as standing and genetics continue. We recommend a single yearly treatment to “clean up” any new veins that appear.

Can Sclerotherapy prevent spider veins?
Although Sclerotherapy works for existing spider veins, it does not prevent new ones from developing. Wearing medical grade compression hose can prevent spider veins.

What happens after the treatment?
We recommend walking but avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours. Hot tubs and hot baths are prohibited for three days after treatment! Medical grade compression hose are worn for 7 days around the clock, followed by three weeks during the day. This has proven to increase the effectiveness of the Laser & Sclerotherapy treatment. The treated blood vessels disappear over a period of weeks.

Are there any side effects following treatment?
Possible side effects are minimal. Temporary reactions can include a slight swelling of the leg or foot, minor bruising and itching.  There is a risk of leg blood clot and lung blood clot.

I’m interested – What do I do next?
Call us at 626-329-4555 to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns with our knowledgeable staff.