How do we treat vessels?

We use the Cutera Laser (same as Genesis) which combines the ideal wavelength with the most flexible parameters to deliver a superior vascular laser treatment.

Key Elements/Benefits:

• Quick treatment time (20 – 40 mins)
• Good aesthetic result post treatments
• No scarring
• 4 – 6 treatments required.

The laser delivers pulses of light energy which causes the blood within the vein to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessel which is later reabsorbed by your body. Blood flow will then be redirected to veins deeper below your skins surface, where it should be.

Broken capillaries are actually caused by an external disturbance in your skin especially UV damage and trauma to the skin, such as popping a pimple too forcefully, windburns, extreme temperature changes, and excessive drinking or smoking. This external pressure can result in the tiny blood vessels bursting or the valves inside stop working properly. When the valve or veins are damaged or weakened the blood may struggle to flow in the correct direction and then begin to pool inside the vein. Over time this results in broken capillaries and spider veins.

Broken Capillaries or ‘spider veins’ can also occur on the legs. They are usually not painful, but some people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons. Spider veins can be blue, purple, or red and may appear in the form of thin lines, webs, or branches.

What type of vessels can be treated & who can be treated?

Benign vascular lesions on the face and body.

• Telangiectasia (small facial veins)
• Spider veins on the legs
• Hemangiomas
• Blue reticular veins
• Most skin types

What vessels we do not treat and who we do not treat:

• Varicose veins
• Over or near a pacemaker
• If you are on photosensitizing medications such as Accutane
• History of coagulopathies
• Anticoagulant medication
• Diabetes (treated with caution)
• Skin cancer on the area to be treated.

How many treatments?

Often patients find that one or two treatments are sufficient. However, it can take up to 4-6 treatments depending on how you respond to the treatment and/or the number, colour, and size of the vessels being treated.

How long will it last?

Most patients find that the majority of the treated veins have shown significant improvement within two to six weeks. However quite often it can take several months before you see the final result. Over time you may need to have these veins retreated and new veins can appear which can also be treated.

Potential risks & side effects

• Erythema & bruising are common and do resolve with time
• An urticarial (hive-like) reaction can occur with small vessels.
• Blistering
• Hemosiderin staining (iron leaking from blood breakdown) which usually resolves overtime
• Dark coagulation in larger vessels.

During treatment

The area to be treated is cleansed and/or make-up is removed and your eyes will be covered with specific laser protective safety goggles. The prescribed parameters are selected, and a cool ultrasound gel is applied to the treated area for increased epidermal protection and easy gliding of the handpiece.
Each area is pre-cooled by the built-in cooling within the handpiece. This pre and post-cooling is an important step of the procedure as it prevents epidermal damage and also makes the treatment more comfortable. Then with each pulse you will then feel a stinging sensation (much like a bug bite) through the handpiece. The area is immediately cooled again by the handpiece.
Any remaining gel is removed, and a SPF cream will be applied.

After treatment

If you have the veins on your legs treated, we advise that you wear compression stockings for at least a week post treatment.
Following your treatment some redness or bruising may occur. The treated veins may also become darker (usually grey) in colour during the coagulation process.
What to avoid 24 hours post treatment.

• Hot shower or bath
• Sauna or Steam room
• Avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise
• Do not put ice onto the treated area

How much will it cost?

• Face $175 per 30 minutes
• Legs $250 per 30 minutes