Dr. Scott now offers Vascular Laser to treat unsightly facial and leg veins. This treatment uses the most advanced technology to safely and effectively treat superficial blood vessels in men & women of all skin tones.
The Vascular Laser (also known as the Nd:YAG Laser) uses a longer wavelength (1064nm) to reach deeper layers of the skin than other laser types. It treats a broad range of vessels from tiny spider veins to deep blue reticular veins quickly, safely, and effectively. Patients with dark, light or tanned skin can experience outstanding results.
How it works
The Vascular Laser delivers pulses of light energy which cause the blood within the vein to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessel which is later reabsorbed by your body. Blood flow will then be redirected to veins deeper below your skin’s surface, where it should be.
The Vascular Laser can remove unsightly veins from all parts of the body. The types of veins that can be treated include:
- Small, facial veins
- Capillaries (or telangiectasia)
- Spider veins
- Large blue leg veins
- Cherry angiomas on the body
- Birthmarks or port-wine stains (PWS)
- Poikiloderma (or sun damage) on the neck and décolletage
- Red scars
This treatment is not suitable for varicose veins. Vascular laser is often combined with Laser Genesis and Limelight Treatment to treat diffuse redness and improve overall skin quality.
Dr. Scott will discuss with you the suitability of this treatment at your consultation. Vascular Laser treatments are performed by Dr. Scott.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can be treated with Vascular Laser?
The Vascular Laser features a unique design and long wavelength that allows treatment of patients of all skin tones. Dr. Scott will advise you at your consultation if this treatment is right for you.
How does Vascular Laser compare with Sclerotherapy?
Dr. Scott will advise you on the best course of action, but many doctors and patients prefer Vascular Laser treatment because there are no painful injections.
What about blood blisters and port-wine stains?
Blood blisters or hemangiomas respond very well to Vascular Laser treatment, usually with just one session. Patients with port wine stains and other vascular lesions may require multiple treatments.
How many treatments will I need?
Often, patients find that one or two treatments are sufficient. However, the number of treatments necessary depends on the number, colour, and size of the vessels being treated. Since individual results vary, this will be discussed at your consultation with Dr. Scott.
Do the treatments hurt?
Most patients experience a stinging sensation as the pulses of energy are delivered through the handpiece. Although topical numbing gel is generally not required, it can be applied beforehand to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. Following the treatment, there is minimal to no pain.
What happens after the treatment?
Following your treatment, some redness or bruising may occur. When larger veins are treated, a tan or brownish pigment may persist for a few weeks or months following treatment. Patients who have leg vein treatments may be advised to wear support hose for a short period of time.
What are possible side effects?
Although many patients report few if any side effects, those most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local swelling of the skin. These effects typically last for less than 24 hours. Some patients may experience bruising and, in rare instances, blistering may occur. Dr. Scott will discuss the benefits and risks of treatment in more detail at the time of consultation.
Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?
Patients generally resume most normal activities immediately. However, it is recommended that you avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after treatment. The use of sunscreen is recommended on any treated areas exposed to the sun. As always, it is a good idea to limit your sun exposure.
When will I see results?
Most patients find that the majority of the treated veins have shown significant improvement within two to six weeks of treatment. However, your final results may not be apparent for several months. Over time, it is possible for new veins to appear, but these too can be removed with the Vascular Laser.
