Laser Thread Vein and Spider Vein Removal
Thread veins, also known as spider veins or the technical name “telangiectasia”, are clusters of slim visible veins which can either be red or blue coloured. They typically appear on the face or legs. Unlike varicose veins, they are flush with skin and do not cause bulges.
Whilst these veins are completely harmless, many people would rather they didn’t have them and seek to minimise their appearance. Traditionally, they were treated by injections known as sclerotherapy, but technology has now improved and they can be removed easily and painlessly with laser therapy.
How does it work?
The laser has a wavelength of 980nm, which selectively targets the pigment in the red blood of the thread veins. The heat causes the vein to break down and the blood to coagulate – the vein closes in on itself and the blood is rerouted into other blood vessels and disappears from the surface of the skin.
The treatment is safe, effective and non-invasive (no needles required!) An improvement is often seen straight away, but on average 2 or 3 treatments are needed with final results being seen 3 to 6 weeks after the last treatment.
FAQs
What causes thread veins?
Thread veins can appear at any age. However, they usually start to develop in early adult hood and become more noticeable around 50 to 60 years.
Which areas are suitable to be treated?
Anywhere there are thread veins, although usual areas are the face or the legs.
What are the side effects of laser thread vein removal?
Possible side effects include bruising, redness, scabbing or (unusually) small blisters.
Will it hurt?
The procedure is comfortable and numbing cream is not required.
How many treatments are needed?
A patch test and then two to three further treatments are required for best results. Sometimes more treatments are required on the legs. It is recommended to have about four weeks between treatments and wear a sunscreen during this time.
What is the aftercare?
The full pre and post treatment care is available here.
Can thread veins be treated on the NHS?
No. Treatment for thread veins is considered to be cosmetic and as such is not available on the NHS.
