Spider veins, otherwise known as telangiectasias, usually occur on the thighs, legs, and around the knees. Although usually asymptomatic, these are extremely cosmetically bothersome to some. There are several techniques to remove these unsightly lesions. Recently several lasers have been developed to treat telangiectasias. While lasers are successful, they are significantly more expensive than traditional techniques. For more information on the traditional techniques for treating spider veins, please see "Spider Vein Injection Therapy" under the "Additional Procedures" heading on my procedure page.

A laser is a highly concentrated beam of light that targets specific colors or pigments in the skin. The laser used to treat spider veins targets hemoglobin, a component of the blood flowing through the spider vein. The hemoglobin is vaporized, and the energy of the laser essentially welds the spider vein shut.

Minor discomfort is experienced when the laser is fired, often described as a rubber band being snapped on the skin.

The procedure is performed in Dr. Revis’ office or in an outpatient surgery center.

Usually no longer than thirty minutes.

After the procedure, Dr. Revis will bandage your legs from toe to thigh. You should plan to elevate your legs for the remainder of the day of treatment. The next day, you may remove the original bandage, bathe, and reapply a compression garment to your legs. This helps keep the veins collapsed as they heal closed. You should wear this garment at all times for the first week.

For the first day, the treated areas may appear slightly red and swollen. Occasionally, crusting will occur. It is important that you keep the treated area clean and resist the temptation to pick at any crusting that might be present.

Multiple treatments are sometimes necessary for more extensive clusters of spider veins. Small, linear spider veins are usually gone after one treatment.

Dr. Revis requires at least six weeks between sessions for healing to occur. At this point, results may be accurately assessed from the previous session.

For more information regarding the laser treatment of spider veins or any other procedure, please contact Dr. Revis’ office at (9540 630-2009 for a complimentary consultation.