Surface laser treatment is used to eradicate spider veins.  The laser beam is externally pointed at the veins to be treated, and the laser light energy is used to close the veins.
Skin pigmentation can impact the effectiveness of any laser; therefore the patient should have no sun exposure four weeks prior to treatment to guard against blistering and scarring.
Although discomfort is mild, some form of cooling may be used to increase the patient’s comfort.  Cooling may be achieved through the use of ice, a cool air device or topical anesthetic.  The duration and number of sessions will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the location.  Many facial veins can be treated in one session; however, most conditions on the leg require three to five treatments to ensure all spider veins are treated.  These treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart.   
Unlike most physicians who use only sclerotherapy, our doctors use the double injury method when treating spider veins on the leg. This technique treats the spider veins with the D940 SkinPulse S laser, followed by an injection of sclerosing solution into the associated reticular or “feeder” vein. Laser energy is applied first through a hand piece that is very small and lightweight. Spot sizes are easily interchangeable and come in 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 millimeter sizes, depending on the size of the veins. By injuring the veins with the laser first, the vein spasms and less sclerotherapy is required. The benefit of the double injury method over sclerotherapy alone is a quicker resolution and a significant decrease in the risk of skin staining. Staining appears as brownish discoloration on the skin.
Once the procedure is completed, it is recommended that compression stockings be worn for three to five days.  As with any procedure, some mild side-effects might occur.  These side effects include slight redness to the skin tone or mild swelling in the treated area. 
Common recommendations for the patient:

• Stay out of the sun and tanning beds for 4 weeks before and after surface laser treatment
• Wear compression stockings for a minimum of three to five days
• Abstain from high impact activities such as running or step aerobics for three weeks
• Walk at a moderate pace, as it will aid in the healing process