Spider veins, or those red and blue networks of vessels that often occur on the face or legs, are not usually indicative of a serious health concern. However, for many individuals, they are considered to be a cosmetic concern, especially if they are in a visible location and grow larger over time. Fortunately, there are effective methods available today to diminish the appearance of those pesky spider veins without significant disruption to your daily life. At Eminence Medical Aesthetics, we are committed to helping you look your very best without invasive surgery or downtime. With state-of-the-art technology and innovative treatments, we can help you to target a wide range of cosmetic concerns to enhance, rejuvenate and refresh your appearance.
You deserve to live your life with confidence, and Eminence Medical Aesthetics is here to help you do so. Using the most advanced technology in laser vein therapy, our team led by Dr. Shawn Yunayev can help you to eliminate unwanted spider veins and deep blue reticular veins quickly, safely and effectively. The CoolGlide laser by Cutera combines ideal treatment wavelengths with the most customizable parameters to address a broad range of venous concerns. Regardless of your skin type or tone, you can expect to achieve outstanding aesthetic outcomes with minimal to no side effects or downtime.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins are a symptom of venous disease, a common but usually harmless condition that can occur in women and men of any age but is especially prevalent in older individuals. Venous disease occurs when a backflow of blood is created, causing the blood to pool in insufficient veins. The excess blood, having nowhere else to go, can cause these veins to expand and protrude from under the skin and appear darker in color. These visible veins can be caused by several factors, including:
- Heredity; spider veins often run in families
- Hormone fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy and menopause
- Significant weight gain that puts added pressure on the lower leg veins
- Sun exposure, which is a frequent culprit in visible facial veins
- Injury or trauma to the skin that leads to a damaged blood vessel
- Prolonged periods of standing that adds pressure to the blood vessels in the lower legs
- Skin conditions such as rosacea that can lead to the formation of facial veins.
While there are ways to reduce your likelihood of developing spider veins, such as exercising regularly and putting your legs up to rest, there is ultimately no way to prevent this condition entirely. It is estimated that as many as 30 to 60 percent of adults will develop at least a few of these visible veins on their body at some point in their lives. As the body ages, veins and their valves that are essential for proper circulation will degrade, even among the healthiest patients. If you are interested in living a happy and healthy life, you should schedule a treatment at the onset of any symptoms of spider veins. While venous insufficiency may only be cosmetic in nature, the potential health complications that can develop from unmanaged venous disease can lead to more severe issues down the road.
What is the Cutera CoolGlide Laser?
The Cutera CoolGlide Laser featured at Eminence Medical Aesthetics is a proven method of visible vein elimination that has been approved by the FDA and available for many years. The 1064nm Nd: YAG technology in the CoolGlide system allows for the treatment of a broad spectrum of skin tones and can even be used safely on darker skin. The device boasts a unique design, longer wavelengths and an integrated cooling system that promises our patients will receive vein therapy treatments that are safe and comfortable with the results they expect from this cutting-edge procedure.
How Does CoolGlide Vein Therapy Work?
The customizable technology of the CoolGlide laser by Cutera offers a full range of adjustments and energy settings to effectively diminish visible blood vessels of all sizes virtually anywhere on the body. With each pulse of light, the CoolGlide laser will automatically recalibrate and deliver the precise amount of light energy needed for treatment while contact cooling works to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the procedure. Laser treatments are performed in our office at Eminence Medical Aesthetics, and typically will take between 15 to 30 minutes to complete depending on your areas of concern.
A handheld applicator is applied directly to the surface of the skin, which delivers the laser light energy right into the affected blood vessel. In delivering pulses of thermal light energy into the affected vein, the CoolGlide laser heats and coagulates the vein, causing it to seal itself closed. The treated blood vessel is then broken down and eliminated by the natural processes of the body over time, and blood flow is redirected to healthy veins.
Is There Any Downtime Needed After CoolGlide Vein Therapy?
There is no recovery period needed after your CoolGlide vein therapy treatment. As soon as your appointment is over, you can immediately resume your daily routine without interruption. Although you can resume normal activities almost instantly, you will be advised to refrain from vigorous activities like exercise and avoid hot tubs for at least 24 hours after your treatment to give your treated veins plenty of time to heal. You will also be advised to avoid direct sun exposure after your procedure. If you do go outside, protect the treated areas of your skin with sunscreen to prevent the harmful effects of UV rays.
*Disclaimer: Individual Results May Vary.
Does CoolGlide Laser Vein Therapy Hurt?
Some patients experience a brief stinging sensation during their CoolGlide treatment as the pulses of light energy are delivered through the handpiece. However, we do offer the option to use a topical anesthetic before the treatment to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
How Many CoolGlide Treatments Will I Need?
In most cases, many patients find that one or two CoolGlide treatments will effectively eliminate their affected veins. However, the number of procedures you require will be dependent on the color, size and number of blood vessels you wish to address. During your consultation at Eminence Medical Aesthetics, your provider will carefully assess your areas of concern and goals to determine the number of treatments needed to eliminate the affected vessels.
What Are The Potential Side Effects of CoolGlide Laser Vein Therapy?
While most patients report few, if any, side effects after their CoolGlide treatment, the most common symptoms observed are mild redness and swelling of the treated skin. These effects will typically resolve on their own within 24 hours or less. Some patients can experience bruising and, in rare instances, blistering of the skin can occur. Your provider will discuss all of the benefits and risks of CoolGlide laser vein therapy with you during your initial consultation.
When Can I Expect to See Results From My CoolGlide Treatment?
Most patients find that the majority of the treated veins show noticeable visible improvements within two to six weeks of their treatment; however, your final results may not be apparent for several months. The final results of your CoolGlide laser vein therapy treatment are considered to be long-lasting since the visible vein is eliminated. New spider veins can develop over time, which may require additional CoolGlide therapies to maintain your pleasing new appearance. Multiple treatments can be spaced three to four weeks apart if necessary to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
Book Your Consultation At Eminence Medical Aesthetics Today
CoolGlide laser vein therapy is a quick and effective way to get rid of unsightly spider veins that affect your appearance and self-confidence. To discover if laser vein therapy is right for you and your needs, contact Eminence Medical Aesthetics today at 888-983-2649 to schedule your in-person consultation.
