Fact sheet Photo gallery

Thread Vein Removal - The Facts

Thread veins, broken veins or telangectasia are the small red or blue unsightly 'spider like' veins which can appear at various sites on the body.

There are currently two main methods available to treat thread veins - laser therapy and sclerotherapy.

At Laserase we offer a combination of these therapies in an attempt to achieve the best possible results.

Why do thread veins develop?

Thread veins are caused by a variety of factors including exposure to ultra violet light, wind and extremes of temperature. Steroid creams and the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can also induce them. For genetic reasons some individuals are more prone to develop thread veins than others and some people are more at risk because they have occupations where they stand for long periods.

Can all thread veins be removed?

By having the facilities to use both laser and sclerotherapy we hope to maximise our ability to clear thread veins. However, some veins will not respond to either treatment and will remain.

How does laser therapy work?

Lasers work by producing light of a very pure wavelength. If the wavelength of the laser is matched to a target colour (such as the red of blood or the vessel wall), the energy of the laser is absorbed specifically by the target but not by the surrounding tissues. Thus, the laser delivers a series of focused energy pulses generating heat for very short periods of time, this breaks down the thread veins into tiny particles. These tiny particles are then dispersed naturally in the body and therefore the veins fade or disappear over several weeks.

Which laser will be used?

Laserase uses a new diode laser, which is proving to be efficient at removing small superficial blood vessels.

What is laser treatment like?

The laser is fired in short bursts at the thread veins. This feels warm on the skin, and some patients may find this a little discomforting. During treatment the skin is cooled which reduces this sensation. Local anaesthetic gel can be used if necessary.

What can I expect after the treatment?

After a treatment the treated veins may appear reddened, bruised, raised and indeed more prominent than before the treatment and the surface of the skin may feel dry. Crusting may develop on the area that has been treated. Occasionally there is a slight increase in pigment at the treated site. This usually subsides after seven to fourteen days.

How many treatments will I need and how often?

The number of treatments needed will depend on the extent of the affected area and will be estimated at your consultation. Treatments are usually planned at four to six week intervals.

What are the complications of laser therapy?

In general laser therapy is safe and effective, however complications do sometimes occur and these include: blistering, scarring, ulceration, loss of skin pigment and increased pigmentation, which may be permanent. The area around the ankle is more likely to have complications than other areas. It is very important that you give details of any medication you are taking, and any medical problems you have, which may be relevant to the treatment. We do not recommend treatment in patients who are tanned.

Are all thread veins suitable for laser therapy?

Not all thread veins will respond to laser therapy as they may be situated too deeply within the skin for the laser light to penetrate. In these cases, which do not respond to laser therapy, sclerotherapy may be effective.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy involves the introduction of an extremely fine needle into the vein to be treated. The vein is then filled with a sclerosant liquid, which causes microscopic damage to the cells lining the vein. The body responds to this damage causing the vessel to shrink or be obliterated. In general one injection is needed per spray of interconnecting veins.

What is sclerotherapy like?

The sclerosing agent used has local anaesthetic properties and only the minimal discomfort of a tiny prick is usually experienced during the procedure. It is likely to be much less painful than any other injection or blood test. Small swabs may be then taped over the injection sites which can usually be removed after approximately half an hour.

What happens after sclerotherapy?

For one or two weeks the veins will probably appear more prominent than before treatment and the injection sites may look like small insect bites. The veins will then usually begin to fade and continue to do so for up to eight weeks or longer. After eight weeks remaining veins can be re-injected to reduce them further.

What are the complications of sclerotherapy?

Complications of sclerotherapy are rare but can occur. Following treatment some patients develop brown discolouration of the skin, which is due to the deposition of an iron-containing pigment (haemosiderin) in the skin. This pigment may take a long time to fade away or even be permanent. Other much rarer complications include blood clots in the veins, adverse allergic reactions to the sclerosing solution, severe inflammation and skin injury which may lead to the development of a small ulcer and permanent scar. The area around the ankle is more likely to have complications than other areas For the above reasons pregnant or breast feeding ladies will be asked to postpone treatment and patients taking certain medications (such as anticoagulants) will be advised against sclerotherapy.

What can I do after treatment?

After both laser therapy and sclerotherapy it is quite safe to perform all daily activities and exercise is encouraged. If the treated area is a little sore or dry then the application of aloe vera gel may help.

Is 'Laserase' treatment safe?

Yes. There is no evidence that the laser treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of cancer. Furthermore every precaution has been taken to ensure the safety of the patient. Having met all the necessary conditions, each 'Laserase' centre is registered with the local health authority. The lasers are also subject to periodic checks by the regional radiation physics & protection service. Only qualified and fully trained doctors carry out the Laserase' treatment and patients are required to wear approved protective goggles at all times during laser treatment.

© 2004 Laserase