Using the Nd:YAG laser, we deliver an appropriate amount of laser energy to a small, concentrated spot for a specific time depending on the size of the vessel. The spot is usually between 0.2 and 0.7 mm in maximal diameter. This energy is absorbed by the blood and induces a coagulation followed by thrombosis and ultimately the disappearance of the treated vessel.

The skin should be shaved. A cool air is applied during and after the treatment to alleviate any heating sensation induced by the laser energy.

You may feel a small pinch or small electric shock. Following the session your skin may become irritated and may itch for few hours.

Results will begin to appear after few weeks but the total disappearance will take 2 to 6 months. It is recommended to be patient and keep this long wait period in mind before we retreat the same areas.

Patients should come with shaved and dry skin to avoid burning any hair. No skin cream should be applied the day of the procedure. During the procedure, the skin is cleaned with alcohol, the area to be treated is encircled with a pen and a photo is taken.

Everybody in the room is required to put on the protective eye glasses. A cool air is blown on the skin and some water gel is applied before we start delivering the laser energy to the spider veins that need to be treated.

Patients with spider veins resistant to sclerotherapy are ideal candidates for Nd:YAG skin laser. Although all spider veins could be treated with laser, the treatment is usually a lot more expansive than sclerotherapy.

Any area, whether the face, neck or legs, could be treated with this technique.

Skin burns are a possible complication, but rarely happen. 

Usually they heal with local skin care with little scaring. Skin irritation and hyperpigmentation could also happen but generally fade over time.

Surveillance and follow up of the condition of your varicose veins is essential to maintain healthy looking legs free of varicose veins. The alternative to laser treatment remains sclerotherapy.