Face – Varicose Veins Treatment

What are the causes of prominent veins on the face?

There are a number of causes of veins on the face and neck.  Often it is related to a genetic tendency.  Some people just have extra blood flow in the neck and face which causes the blood vessels to be more prominent.  Other patients have a condition called rosacea.  This is when the skin tends to flush more easily.  It may be associated with other cosmetic problems such as papules, red bumps, and an irritation of the eyes.  Sun damage can definitely lead to prominent veins.  This is due to the thinning of the outer skin layers so that the skin becomes more translucent and the veins are visible from the outside.  There are a number of disorders in the body that can also cause veins such as lupus or liver disease.

Are there different types of blood vessels?

There are different types of blood vessels.  We see fine linear veins, particularly on the cheeks and nose which are responsive.  There are also veins that actually have a central vascular component.  These are called AV malformations.  Veins can also become prominent on the neck.  This is called poikiloderma.  It is typically seen with sun damage and sometimes associated with the use of perfumes or aftershaves.

What is the most effective treatment for facial veins?

There are a number of different lasers.  Lasers work by applying heavy strong light energy into the skin that passes through the outer layers and is attracted by the red in the veins.  The red interacts with the laser to cause a heat reaction that essentially burns and closes up the veins.  Because it is all under the skin there is usually no scarring and it makes it a very safe treatment.

When did lasers originate?

The lasers first came to Australia in 1994.  Dr. Lanzer was one of a group of dermatologists that held a number of conferences to teach other doctors how to use the laser.  Dermatologists have played a major role in the advancement of laser therapy of different types.

Are all lasers the same?

No.  Lasers work in a different method.  Some work through attracting the color such as red or brown.  Others work by being attracted to the water in the skin such as the laser for treatment of wrinkles.

How many treatments does one need?

Laser results vary and patients may need 1-3 treatments.  Everybody reacts differently.

Are there any precautions one needs to take?

It is advisable to avoid having a tan.  Otherwise, there can be some cross reactivity and the laser may pick up the pigmentation on the skin and cause a scab.  If there is a scab, in the worst scenario, this could cause scarring.

Is there any down time?

There is no down time generally with laser of veins.  However, patients can sometimes be red or have a little scab.

When can makeup be applied?

Makeup can be applied immediately after laser treatment.

Is there pain with laser treatment?

There is generally no pain although one does feel a flicking on the skin which can occasionally be a little sore.

Can lasers be used for leg veins?

Lasers can be used for leg veins, but are nowhere near as effective as saline sclerotherapy.

Who does the vein treatment?

Lasers are usually done by doctors.  In Dr. Lanzer’s rooms, Dr. Goldberg has been performing the laser treatment for nearly 20 years and is an expert.  Besides training under Dr. Lanzer, he has had training in England as well.

Where can the laser be performed?

Dr. Lanzer offers laser vein therapy in most of his clinics throughout Victoria and Sydney.  Dr. Lanzer has a new day surgery centre in Pitt Street, Sydney.

Are all blood vessel lasers the same?

No, lasers do vary. Some lasers are more effective than others.  Sometimes we can use a pulsed laser called IPL also to treat veins.