Laser spider vein treatment is a popular cosmetic procedure for reducing the appearance of spider veins on the skin. The treatment uses laser energy to destroy the unwanted veins, leaving behind clear, healthy skin. But what happens after the treatment? How long does it take to see results? And are there any side effects? In this article, we will answer these and other frequently asked questions about laser spider vein treatment to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

Maryland Vein Center is a state-of-the-art vein center led by board-certified vein doctors who offer the latest and safest treatments for spider veins. For patients with spider veins, we generally recommend sclerotherapy because it’s more effective and reliable than laser therapy. You can visit our vein doctors at Bethesda, Maryland. Please schedule an appointment online.

What happens after laser spider vein treatment?

Laser spider vein treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses laser energy to destroy unwanted spider veins. After the treatment, the skin will be slightly red and swollen, but these side effects should subside within a few hours. Some patients may experience mild itching or burning, but these symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

It is important to keep the treated area clean and covered with a bandage to prevent infection and promote healing. You should avoid sun exposure and strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours after the treatment. If necessary, you can apply cold compresses to the area to reduce swelling and discomfort.

You will begin to see results from laser spider vein treatment within a few weeks, as the veins gradually disappear from view. The full results of the treatment will be visible within three to six months. It is important to note that multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results, depending on the severity of the spider veins.

How long does it take for spider veins to heal after laser treatment?

The healing time after laser spider vein treatment varies from person to person, but most patients will notice an improvement within a few weeks. The full results of the treatment are usually visible within three to six months.

After the procedure, the treated veins will gradually fade from view as the body naturally eliminates the destroyed blood vessels. The length of time it takes for the veins to fully heal depends on the size and number of veins treated, as well as your individual skin type and healing processes.

It is important to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions, including avoiding sun exposure and strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours after the treatment, to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. In some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Why do my spider veins look worse after laser treatment?

In some cases, spider veins may look worse after laser treatment, but this is usually a temporary side effect. The heat from the laser can cause the veins to become more prominent before they eventually fade away. This can last for a few days to a few weeks.

If the spider veins continue to look worse or don’t improve after several weeks, it is important to contact your vein doctor. This could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as a blood clot, that needs to be addressed. Your vein doctor can assess the situation and determine the best course of action to resolve the problem.

How many laser treatments are needed for spider veins?

The number of laser treatments needed for spider veins varies depending on the severity of the veins, the size of the affected area, and the desired results. Some patients may only need one treatment, while others may require several sessions to achieve the desired results. Typically, it takes about three to six weeks for the results of each treatment to become visible. After this time, your doctor will assess the progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary.

It is important to understand that laser spider vein treatment is a gradual process and that multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the best results. However, if you want to see the results more quickly, you can opt for sclerotherapy, which is widely considered the best treatment for spider veins. Unlike laser treatment, sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosant medicine into the spider veins to turn them into hardened tissues reabsorbed by the body, and the spider veins fade away within a few days.

Is sclerotherapy or laser better?

Sclerotherapy and laser treatment are both effective options for reducing the appearance of spider veins. However, sclerotherapy may be a better option for some patients, depending on the severity and location of the veins.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosant solution into the veins to collapse and fade them from view. This method is ideal for larger veins and can be performed in a single session. Sclerotherapy has a lower risk of side effects compared to laser treatment. Furthermore, each sclerosant injection removes one spider vein, so the results are guaranteed.

However, laser treatment is better suited for smaller, finer veins and may be a better option for those who have a fear of needles. Laser treatment is also less painful and has a quicker recovery time. However, laser treatment isn’t nearly as effective as sclerotherapy, and you may need multiple sessions over several months to see results.