Treatment for vascular lesions and spider veins are now possible due to recent advances in medical technology. At Dermatology Center of Acadiana we use the Cutera Excel V because it is the single most effective laser or device on the market to target redness or visible blood vessels. It is more effective due to combining two ultra-precise laser wavelengths in one device to give it the ultimate range and flexibility for treating a wide variety of discolorations.
The Excel V Laser is far ahead of the competition. The closest competitor, Vbeam, has been around since 1986. While it was revolutionary at the time, the Excel V laser has incorporated a number of improvements over the Vbeam.
IPL treatment has a few downsides that make it less preferable than the Excel V for most treatments. It is generally less effective and sometimes causes skin pigmentation to get darker, especially in Asian and darker skinned patients. The more reliable results of the Excel V laser make it an easy choice for both practitioners and patients alike.
There are a number of different types of vascular lesions, and most of them can be treated effectively with the Excel V laser. Vascular lesions are simply blood vessels that are visible through the skin.
Some of the most common and best known types of vascular lesions include:
Varicose veins are raised and swollen blood vessels that twist and turn, while spider veins are also easily visible veins but they are not generally raised or swollen. Spider veins can be red, purple or blue. Some people with varicose veins may have symptoms such as aching, cramping, throbbing or burning in their legs. Generally these symptoms are not experienced with spider veins.
While laser therapy is often the best choice for spider veins, varicose veins may be better suited by other treatments. Make a consultation with your dermatologist to find out what is best for you. You can also ask your dermatologist about any other cosmetic procedures that may interest you.
There are a number of different factors that influence the appearance of vascular lesions, including:
The light energy from the laser causes the blood to coagulate in the vein. This causes the blood vessel to be destroyed and reabsorbed into the body. The blood will continue to flow in the deeper vessels under the surface of the skin.
What does laser treatment feel like?
Patients generally describe a stinging sensation with each pulse of energy. The Excel V has a built in cooling mechanism that helps to dampen this sensation and lessen the discomfort. After treatment there is little to no pain.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
Is there downtime after treatment?
There can be redness, swelling or bruising after treatment. It is always temporary and will lessen over time. Usually the effects dissipate after 48 hours.
How long does it take to see the results?
Facial vein treatments is almost immediate. Whereas, treating facial redness can cause a temporary increase in redness, usually only for a few hours to days, before the gradual decrease in redness which will be seen over the course of the next few weeks. When treating the legs, it can often take several weeks to see the final results of treatment. There is usually a significant improvement between weeks 2-6 after the procedure.
Do I need to do anything after treatment?
For spider vein treatment, you will see better results if you wear compression stockings for 48 hours afterwards and refrain from activities that will pump a lot of blood to your legs such as biking, running or extensive walking.
