Laser Thread Vein Removal

Introduction

Thread veins (telangiectasias) look like thin red lines close to the surface of the skin.  They can be found on both the face and legs and may resemble a spiders web.

The appearance of these veins can cause embarrassment to many people. In fact, according to one study, it is estimated that 55% of women in the UK are affected by thread veins.

Laser treatment destroys the vein walls thus getting rid of the troublesome veins.  It is a safe, non-invasive method to quickly eliminate these veins, often with just one treatment.


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Price

Price is determined by the size of the area to be treated, decided at consultation. Prices start from £50.
To book your free consultation click here


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes thread veins?
2. What are my treatment options?
3. How does laser treatment work?
4. How many treatments will I need?
5. Is the treatment permanent?
6. Are there any pre-cautions I should take before treatment?
7. Who performs the treatment?
8. Do I need to do anything after treatment?
9. Will I experience any side-effects following treatment?
10. How do I know if I am suitable for laser treatment?
11. Is the treatment safe?


1. What causes thread veins?

Thread veins found on the face (mainly around the cheeks and nose), can be caused by natural skin aging,  excessive sun or sun bed exposure, the result of taking the pill or HRT, alcohol or acne rosacea.
Those found in the legs may be associated with underlying varicose veins.


2. What are my treatment options?

Small veins which are smaller than 2mm diameter respond well to laser treatment. Medium veins (larger than 2mm diameter) are best treated by a method called sclerotherapy. Larger veins i.e. varicose veins may require surgery.



3. How does laser treatment work?

The Fotona Laser system is an extremely safe and effective highly advanced method of removing unwanted thread veins on the face and legs.

The energy from the laser is absorbed by the blood in the vein, converted into heat and the vein walls destroyed.



4. How many treatments will I need?

Some patients will only require one treatment to be satisfied with a reduced appearance of thread veins, but some require around three to clean the spider veins completely. You will need to have your treatments six to eight weeks apart.



5. Is the treatment permanent?

People who present with thread veins will usually continue to develop others thread veins. So, whilst we can remove some, be aware that others may appear in time.



6. Are there ant pre-cautions I should take before treatment?

It is very important that you do not expose yourself to the sun or sun beds at least four weeks before treatment. If you have signs of a suntan, we cannot treat you until it has faded. Fake tan or make up should also be removed prior to treatment. We strongly advise the use of a sunblock (SPF of 30 or higher) all the time.

You should avoid alcohol, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as brufen and photo-sensitive medication before treatment to reduce the risk of a skin reaction and bruising.



7. Who performs the treatment?

A fully qualified nurse who is registered with the NMC and highly experienced in the use of laser systems.



8. Do I need to do anything after treatment?

For three days post treatment we advise that you:
  • Keep the area clean and dry
  • Wear elastic bandaging
  • Avoid hot baths (you may shower at a lower temperature and reapply the bandaging afterwards)
  • Avoid exercise as exercise increases the blood flow and may recannulate the blood vessel.
  • Use aloe vera gel to sooth the skin
  • Use a sunblock of at least SPF 30 for a minimum of six weeks after.



9. Will I experience any side-effects following treatment?

You will probably experience a little swelling, soreness and bruising to the treated areas for four to five days.



10. How do I know if I am suitable for laser treatment?

This treatment is more suitable for small superficial veins. All patients are required to have a consultation with the nurse to discuss their needs and expectations. At this time we can advise you on your suitability. We cannot offer you laser treatment if you have (now or previously) any of the following:
  • Keloid scarring
  • Scarring/infection of the treatment area
  • Use of iron supplements or anti-coagulant therapy
  • A photo-sensitive disorder
  • Herpes simplex infection of the treatment area
  • Epilepsy
There are other medical conditions which may make you unsuitable for treatment which will be discussed at consultation. In addition, we cannot treat pregnant or breast-feeding women or those with tanned skin.


11. Is the treatment safe?

The process is safe as other healthy veins will supply blood to the treated area and the body will clear the dead tissue as it clears the bruise.

Lasers have been used in the medical profession for over thirty years and in this time, there have been no reported long term problems.

It is a legal requirement that all clinics offering laser treatments must be registered with the Healthcare Comission. Registered facilities have a registration number.


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