Treating spider and facial veins with Cutera® laser
Sydney Vascular Surgeon - Dr Mayo Theivendran
What are spider veins?
Spider veins and facial veins are a common cosmetic concern.
Spider veins are tiny superficial veins that are easily visible through the skin. They can occur anywhere on the body. Facial veins are broken blood vessels that occur on your face.
While spider and facial veins are not usually painful, they can make you feel self-conscious and many people prefer to have them removed.
What is Cutera® dermal laser?
Cutera® laser treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that uses advanced laser technology to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves delivering pulses of light energy that coagulate the blood within the veins, destroying them and allowing the body to reabsorb the veins. Blood flow is then redirected to deeper veins below the skin's surface, causing the visible veins to disappear.
How Cutera® laser works
Cutera® laser delivers pulses of light energy that coagulate the blood within the veins, destroying them and allowing the body to reabsorb the veins.
Blood flow is then redirected to deeper veins below the skin's surface, causing the visible veins to disappear.
Benefits of Cutera® laser treatment for spider and facial veins
Cutera® laser treatment offers a simple and effective solution to spider and facial veins. It can significantly reduce their appearance, providing you with clearer and smoother skin.
Cutera® laser has several benefits compared to other methods of spider and facial vein removal:
- Non-invasive: Cutera® laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require surgical incisions.
- Precise: The laser targets the affected veins precisely, without damaging the surrounding skin.
- Minimal discomfort: You may experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, with most people reporting only a slight tingling sensation.
- Fast: Treatment sessions are usually quick, making it convenient for people with busy schedules.
- Effective: Cutera® laser treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of spider veins and facial veins, leading to clearer skin.
What happens during Cutera® laser treatment
After an initial consultation with Dr Theivendran, you can arrange a suitable treatment time. The treatment is performed by Nancy Dela Cruz RN and involves 3 steps:
Preparation
Nancy will cleanse your skin and provide protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser light.
Laser Application
Nancy Dela Cruz (RN) will use the Cutera laser to target the veins.
Cooling
Cooling methods may be used to soothe the skin during and after the laser application.
Most people find that after 1 to 3 sessions, their spider veins or facial veins are no longer noticeable.
When will I start seeing results?
You’ll usually see results after 1 to 2 sessions. 30% of people only need one treatment session.
Aftercare following laser treatment of spider and facial veins
After Cutera® laser treatment for spider veins and facial veins, it is important to follow these aftercare instructions:
Avoid sun exposure
Protect the treated area from direct sunlight to prevent complications and promote healing.
Use sunscreen
Apply sunscreen regularly to protect the skin from UV damage.
Avoid heat
You should avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days.
Avoid skin irritants
You should avoid skin irritants a few days post-treatment. This include products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated and aid in recovery.
Common after-effects of spider and facial veins laser treatment
While Cutera® laser treatment is generally safe, some common after-effects may occur including:
- Redness or swelling: Mild redness or swelling at the treatment site is normal and usually subsides within a few days.
- Bruising: Some people experience bruising, which typically resolves on its own.
- Skin discoloration: Temporary changes in skin colour may occur but these usually fade over time.
- Rare side effects: Occasionally blistering, scarring, or infection may occur, however, these are uncommon with proper care.
How Dr Theivendran can help
If the appearance of spider or facial veins are concerning you, ask your treating doctor for a referral to Dr Theivendran, an experienced Vascular and Endovascular surgeon.
He will assess your condition and, if appropriate, discuss treatment options that can restore your appearance.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our rooms on (02) 9066 6547
For appointments and enquiries:
Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 4:30pm
Fax: (02) 9182 7533
