Laser Treatment for Thread Veins and Vascular Lesions

With the KTP Aura Laser your Surgeon can offer you the latest treatment to eliminate or reduce unattractive thread veins and vascular lesions. The treatments are usually performed under topical anaesthetic.

Is the treatment safe?

In the hands of a trained Healthcare professional, the use of the Laser is safe and effective.

How does the laser work?

The laser generates an intense beam of light. This beam brings energy to a specific site, through a small handpiece connected to the Laser. A cool tip is attached to the handpiece to keep the surface temperature down. The Laser light is absorbed by the red blood cells, causing decomposition or destruction whilst leaving the epidermal cells intact.

What is a vascular lesion and a thread vein?

A vascular lesion is formed by abnormally large, or numerous, blood vessels located directly under the surface of the skin. With thread veins the vessels are visible through the skin and are usually isolated. They give the appearance of branches of a tree with no leaves. Vascular lesions and thread veins usually blanch on digital pressure.

What should a patient expect during and after treatment?

Treatment may vary depending upon the patient’s characteristics and the area being treated. During treatment you will be asked to wear special goggles, to protect your eyes from the intense beam of laser light. You will be placed in a reclined position, depending on the location of treatment. The Surgeon will use a “pencil thin” handpiece to direct a beam of laser light to the area. Some patients report feeling a slight stinging sensation during treatment followed by some redness, which usually diminishes within two to four hours. Some swelling may also be experienced and may last for one to two days. You will be asked to use Aloe Vera Gel on the skin twice a day.

Final results would take up to two to three weeks.

After the laser treatment if you are left with a lightly pigmented area this can take two to three months to fade. Therefore sun protection during this period is essential.

You may need more than one treatment depending upon your expectation and complexity of the lesions.

How will I know if this Laser is right for me?

Ask for a consultation. After a brief examination your Surgeon will be able to advise you if the laser treatment is appropriate for you.

How many treatments do I need?

You may need more than 1 treatment with a gap of 6 to 8 weeks. Some thread veins may need 3 to 4 treatments, this will be explained to you at your consultation.

Are the results guaranteed?

Unfortunately not. Each patientŐs response is different.

Skin Care Before Your Treatment

  1. All make up should be thoroughly removed from the treatment area, this can be done at home or at the clinic.
  2. Although the KTP laser specifically targets red blood vessels, if your skin is tanned, to some degree the heat will be absorbed. Therefore sun tanning and sun beds SHOULD BE AVOIDED and it would be advisable to apply sun block prior to treatment to minimise any tanning. If the skin is tanned, treatment should be postponed.
  3. Aloe vera Gel moisturiser application 2 to 3 weeks PRIOR to surgery, particularly at night will enhance post laser treatment.

Skin Care After Your KTP Laser Treatment

  1. Your skin may be sensitive to injury for the first few days after treatment and should be treated delicately. Tight fitting clothing which may rub or scratch the area should be avoided.
  2. On visible areas, make up can be used by should be applied lightly and removed gently to avoid damage to the skin.
  3. Continue to apply Aloe vera moisturiser, particularly at night.
  4. In the uncommon and unlikely event of blistering occurring, the blisters should be left in tact if possible. If they burst or weep, they should be kept clean and exposed to air. Should blistering occur, swimming should be avoided until the blister has healed.
  5. The treated area may be sensitive to sunlight for up to a few months, therefore regular sun block protection is essential.
  6. Immediately after laser treatment, avoid direct hot showers or a bath. Avoid active exercise.
  7. It would be advisable to prop yourself up for 3 to 4 days in order to reduce swelling, particularly for facial thread veins. Elevation of treated legs will also help in healing.