VEIN THERAPY
Vein Therapy for the Face and Body
What is Vein Therapy?
Vein therapy is designed to help treat unsightly facial veins as well as spider veins and larger blue leg veins. Those with port wine stains and blood blisters (hemangiomas) can also benefit greatly from treatment. Even those with tanned skin can be treated. Depending on the size of the veins, one to three treatments will be needed.
How does CoolGlide Vein Therapy work?
The Cutera CoolGlide systems deliver pulses of laser energy to the vein which causes the blood within the vein to coagulate, eventually destroying the vessel which is later reabsorbed by your body. Once treated the blood flow will be restricted to veins deeper below your skin’s surface, where it should be.
Who can be treated with the Cutera CoolGlide?
The Cutera CoolGlide features a unique design and long wavelength that allows treatments of patients of all skin tones. Your physician will advise you if CoolGlide Vein Therapy is right for you.
What types of veins can be treated?
The Cutera CoolGlide can remove unsightly veins from all parts of the body. Small, facial veins (or “telangiectasia”) can be treated quickly without bruising or complication. Spider veins and larger blue leg veins can also be treated with excellent results. Knotty varicose veins are not good candidates. A careful evaluation with your physician will help you determine which vessels can be treated and the best course of treatment.
How does this compare to Sclerotherapy?
Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action, but many physicians and patients prefer CoolGlide Vein Therapy because there are no painful injections.
What about blood blisters and port wine stains?
Blood blisters or “hemangiomas” respond very well to CoolGlide Vein Therapy, usually with just one treatment. Patients with port wine stains and other vascular lesions who had given up on finding a solution have been overwhelmed by the success of their CoolGlide vascular treatments. Consult your physician for a thorough evaluation.
How many treatments will I need?
Often patients find that one to three treatments are sufficient. However, the number of treatments necessary depends on the number, color, and size of the vessels being treated. Since individual results vary, ask your medical professional about your specific condition.
Do the treatments hurt?
Most patients experience a stinging sensation as the pulses of energy are delivered through the handpiece. Although no local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required, many patients opt to use a topical anesthetic prior to treatment. Following the treatment, the pain is minimal to nonexistent.
What happens after the treatment?
Following your treatment, some redness or bruising may occur. When larger veins are treated, a tan or brownish pigment may persist for a few weeks or months following treatment. Patients who have leg vein treatments may be advised to wear support hose for a short period of time.
What are the possible side effects?
Although many patients report few if any side effects, those most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local swelling of the skin. These effects typically last for less than 24 hours. Some patients may experience bruising and, in rare instances, blistering can occur. Consult with your medical professional for complete information on the benefits and risks of treatment.
Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?
Patients generally resume most normal activities immediately. However, it is recommended that you avoid vigorous activities such as strenuous exercise for the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment. The use of sunscreen is recommended on any treated areas exposed to the sun. As always, it is a good idea to limit your sun exposure and use a sunscreen daily indoors or outdoors.
When will I see results?
Most patients find that the majority of the treated veins have shown significant improvement within two to six weeks of treatment. However, your final results may not be apparent for several months. Over time, it is possible for new veins to appear, but these too can be removed with the Cutera CoolGlide.