Facial Spider Veins

Facial Veins are tiny red veins that may appear on the nose, chin or cheeks as we grow older. Facial spider veins, or telangiectasias, are fine, superficial veins that have permanently dilated. These lines can also result from pregnancy, childbirth, birth control pills, estrogen-replacement therapy, sun damage, rosacea and corticosteroids. Although they usually don’t present a medical problem, they certainly present an aesthetic one that makeup usually won’t cover.

Current laser technology has revolutionized treatment to virtually erase spider veins. Different types of lasers produce different colors of light, and the color of light produced by a particular laser is the key to erasing spider veins. Skin pigment absorbs different colors of light. For example, hemoglobin in blood absorbs yellow-green light. The laser’s light energy seals the vein shut, and the body reabsorbs the now-diminished spider vein.

Treatments depend on the targeted vein’s quantity, size and depth. Most patients need between one and three 30-minute sessions. Dr. Puente performs all sessions in his office without the cost and risk of hospitalization or general anesthesia, and usually spaces treatments 6 to 12 weeks apart. Since the VersaPulse® Laser produces short, adjustable pulses of green light to treat spider veins, the risk of purplish bruising is minimized and patients are able to resume normal activities immediately.

Treatment feels like pinpricks. The treated area’s appearance varies from patient to patient. Immediate after-effects, if any, are minor and may include redness, light crusting or tenderness, all of which disappear in a short time.  A consultation is required prior to treatment to review the procedure and necessary preparations, and to ask questions.