How do I get started?
Laser Touch personnel will be happy to discuss the vein removal surgery procedure with you. Please feel free to make an appointment for a private consultation to discuss your specific needs.
What are varicose and spider veins?
Varicose veins are the large ropey veins seen in the legs. They occur when the vein is not functioning correctly and usually enlarges over a period of time. Their treatment might require a combination of surgery and laser therapy. Conversely, spider veins are the smaller, often red or blue veins found anywhere on the body, but especially face and legs. Also known as thread veins or telangiectasias, they are the most commonly treated vascular lesions at Laser Touch.
How does the Laser remove vascular lesions?
The laser is pulsed (turned on) for a few milliseconds emitting a beam of light on to the skin. The light energy passes harmlessly through the skin, but is absorbed by the abnormal blood vessels. By absorbing this laser energy, the blood vessel heats up and eventually collapses, thus disappearing.
Who can be treated?
State of the art lasers used by Laser Touch make it possible for all skin types in both men and women (regardless of age) to be treated.
What type of lesions can be treated?
Any vascular abnormality can be treated as long as it has been assessed by the doctor. Lesions such as varicose veins, spider veins, thread veins, telangiectasias, port wine stains, hemangiomas and any other vascular birthmarks or abnormalities can be managed at Laser Touch. Even facial flushing, rosacea and red scars can be treated.
Is the process painful?
Most patients describe it as a slightly uncomfortable pinching or stinging sensation when the pulse of laser is delivered. No local anaesthesia or pain medication is typically required, however some patients may prefer to use a topical anaesthetic when sensitive areas are treated.
How safe is the procedure?
Slight redness and swelling of the treated area occurs in many patients but lasts for about 24 hours. Occasionaly bruising may be present but resolves within a week. Blisters, crust formation, hyper and hypo pigmentation can very rarely occur, but are transient and eventually subside. The risk of scarring is negligible, but is in any case far less visible than the original lesion.
What happens after the treatment?
Soothing creams are applied to reduce the redness and swelling. Sunblock creams should be used over the treated areas and limiting sun exposure is always a good idea. One should avoid strenuous exercise or hot baths for a few days.
How many treatments do I need?
One treatment is sometimes enough. Multiple treatments may be necessary. This depends on the number of vessels treated, their colour, size and depth. Since results vary between patients, your medical professional would advise you further.
Will they come back?
The treated veins disappear forever. However, if the underlying cause is not or cannot be addressed, then over a period of time new vessels can appear, even in treated areas. These can be treated as effectively as the original problem.
