Laser Treatment for Facial Blood Vessels
Spider veins and blood vessels (broken capillaries) on the face affect millions of people. Although they do not cause medical problems, they can be unattractive, embarrassing, and detract from the natural beauty of the skin.
Although genetics have the biggest role in whether you develop broken capillaries, exposure to ultraviolet rays and strong cleansers (overexfoliating) can permanently damage and dilate delicate facial blood vessels. Spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, and cold, hot, or windy weather can aggravate the condition and make it appear more obvious.
The good news is that facial blood vessels usually respond well to laser treatment without damaging surrounding skin. Rosacea, small hemangiomas, port wine stains, and cherry hemangiomas also can be treated with laser technology. A safe (FDA-approved) and effective approach, laser treatment can help restore your complexion to a more consistent and youthful look.
Consultation
If you are interested in having laser treatment for facial blood vessels, your surgeon will discuss your desire and concerns with you. He or she will carefully examine your face, discuss a treatment program that addresses your unique needs, describe the procedure, and tell you what you can expect, including limits and risks of the procedure.
Candidates
The best candidates for laser treatment are people of any age who wish to reduce the appearance of dilated blood vessels on the face.
The Procedure
During the procedure, a laser is used to vaporize and close veins. Eventually, the body absorbs the treated vein, making it no longer visible. In some cases, multiple treatments are needed to reduce or completely eliminate broken blood vessels on the cheeks, nose, and chin.
Because there is only a slight stinging that lasts seconds or less, there is no need for anesthesia during facial laser treatment.
The procedure takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
Recovery and Results
Most patients who receive laser treatment on the face suggest they experience no or minimal discomfort after the procedure. Some patients have slight swelling at the treated area(s), especially under the eye. The swelling typically subsides or resolves the following day. Some patients describe a slight and temporary crusting of the skin over the treated blood vessels.
The majority of patients who have laser treatment for facial blood vessels can immediately return to all normal activities, including work; however, vigorous exercise should be avoided for 2 to 3 days.
Some blood vessels disappear immediately after treatment; however, some patients notice that the treated blood vessels disappear initially and then return. In almost all patients, the blood vessels fade substantially or completely over the following several weeks.
If you have laser treatment for facial blood vessels, you should avoid using products that irritate or sting the skin. Use only gentle cleansers and nonalcohol-based moisturizers. It also is important to limit exposure to the sun and always wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
