Cosmetic Surgery

Sandpoint, Hayden, Coeur d’Alene and North Idaho

Vein Treatments and Laser Vein Removal

Men and women can both develop enlarged, visible veins and capillaries on the face, arms and legs (telangiectases). Small, unwanted visible veins, or "spider veins", and dilated capillaries can cause embarrassment and be unattractive. Sclerotherapy is a chemical injection therapy used to eliminate visibly dilated blood vessels. Alternatively, laser therapy with our CoolGlide laser can be used to target and minimize the appearance of small veins and capillaries.

Causes of Visible Blood Vessels

Arteries carry blood away from the heart, and veins carry it back to the heart. The smallest vessels carrying blood to the tissues are called capillaries, and these can “break” or become visible directly under the skin. Your veins, which return blood to the heart after it has nourished tissue, have valves to prevent the blood from flowing backwards. When these valves become weak, blood can back up and pool in your veins, enlarging them. These superficial varicosities and spider veins are not necessary to your circulatory system. The following factors can contribute to the development of visible vessels:

Sclerotherapy and Laser Treatments to Reduce Spider Veins and Capillaries

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment utilizing a very fine needle to inject a solution directly into the dilated blood vessel. The solution causes the blood within the vein or capillary to disappear or become less obvious as the vessel collapses and does not recannulate. More than one treatment session may be required to completely eliminate the unwanted blood vessels.

The laser vein treatment works by using a specific laser that targets the pigment found in blood vessels: hemoglobin. The laser delivers a pulse of energy that is absorbed by the pigment, causing the blood vessel to collapse. The surrounding tissue, which does not carry the pigmented hemoglobin, is not affected.

Not all vessels can be treated safely with sclerotherapy or laser treatments. If you have a problem with your deeper circulatory system, I may recommend vein surgery prior to treating the visible superficial vessels. We will discuss your situation during your personal consultation.

Dr. Michelle Spring provides surgical expertise and exceptional patient care in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in Sandpoint, Ponderay, and all of Northern Idaho. With extensive training in breast surgery, body contouring, and facial surgery, she offers cosmetic procedures with an emphasis on natural results, safety and personal attention to your individual goals. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, learn more by viewing our Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery or FAQ's page, and contact Dr. Spring today to schedule your laser vein removal consultation.

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