Many people find themselves distressed over the emergence of spider veins. These are the little veins just underneath the surface of the skin that radiate out in a pattern similar to spider legs. Even though these veins do not often cause medical problems, many people choose to have procedures to help erase them or at least diminish their appearance. Plastic surgeons are generally consulted for spider vein treatments. One of the common and most successful therapies, especially for spider veins on the face, is laser removal.
Choice of Doctor
Carefully consider the qualifications of the physician you choose to perform laser therapy. Make sure the physician is board certified. Ask her questions regarding the number of procedures she has preformed, who she will have assisting her if you undergo laser treatment and question her as to the assistant's qualifications. Also, it is helpful to ask for references from former patients before selecting the ideal doctor.
Considerations
To be a good candidate for laser treatment, you need to be in good health overall, a non-smoker, and have spider veins that are superficial and likely to respond well to laser treatment. You should inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, especially if you are taking or have taken Accutane (a drug primarily used to treat acne). Also, relate to him your history of radiation exposure, whether you scar and if you have any skin conditions. Discontinue taking aspirin two weeks before the procedure.
Risks
The areas treated by the laser may become permanently or semi-permanently lightened or darkened following surgery. This cannot be successfully predicted, as your base skin tone is not an indicator. It is also possible to suffer burns from the laser and be scarred. Discuss all risks with your physician and follow instructions for before and after laser therapy.
Procedure
Laser treatment is most often preformed in the doctor's office. The doctor will test small areas of the affected skin with the laser before determining what setting to use. You may need to return for several short sessions of therapy. The procedures generally take about 20 minutes to one hour. Most patients experience a slight burning sensation as the laser is used, but pain is minimal and anesthesia is not usually given.
Recovery
You will probably have redness and swelling of the treated area. This will disappear in about 10 days. Ice packs will help with the swelling and discomfort, and it may take a month or more before your skin reaches a completely normal state. If you experience uneven skin, lightening or darkening, you may wish to consult a physician as to what can be done to lessen the after effects.
