Surface Laser in Austin, TX

At the Austin Vein Institute, we utilize surface lasers (532nm KTP laser and 1064nm Nd: YAG laser) to treat men and women with tiny spider veins. Red and/or purple blood vessels that have become twisted or dilated often turn into unattractive spider veins on the legs and face. The challenge with surface lasers for spider veins in the legs is the very high pressure it puts on these veins. An intensive heat from the laser causes the vein to fail and collapse. Our double board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Christopher Brennig will provide surface laser treatments to patients but believes that sometimes a surface laser treatment is not very effective and can cause discomfort and have a slower recovery period. While most vascular surgeons will rely primarily on modern sclerotherapy techniques, Dr. Brennig will treat tiny spider veins with laser therapy (especially if your veins are too little to treat with sclerotherapy). In some cases, Dr. Brennig will propose a combination of techniques for an optimal outcome.

If you are eligible for surface laser treatments, you will meet the following criteria:

• You wish to have treatment for visible spider veins in small sections on your face or legs
• You are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant during your treatment days
• You are not taking retinoid medications like Accutane for cystic acne
• You do not have an allergy or will not negative reaction to the exposure of light on your skin
• You do not have a pacemaker or other implanted medical device in your body

In one of our comfortable treatment rooms at AVI, our medical team will prepare you for your surface laser treatment. Dr. Brennig will administer a topical numbing cream to the treatment area if one is desired. We will ask you to wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser's bright light. Then, Dr. Brennig will pass the hand-piece over the spider veins. Once the spider veins absorb the energy from the laser, the veins will collapse. Your skin will appear smoother but may take some time for you to see your final results.

After your surface laser treatment, Dr. Brennig will send you home with detailed instructions on how to care for your skin. You may want to be prepared to have a few ice packs or an over-the-counter pain reliever on hand to help with the discomfort. He may also recommend that you wear compression socks or support hosiery for a week or more. Please keep all your follow-up appointments so that Dr. Brennig can monitor your progress. It is possible to need more than one treatment for stubborn spider veins. You should see the best results in weeks 6 – 8.

Seeking an experienced vascular surgeon to help you eliminate spider veins may seem like an overwhelming task. The Austin Vein Institute offers surface laser consultations, even if you are only looking for an aesthetic solution to enhance the appearance your skin. We invite you to contact our office in Austin, TX for more information or to schedule your initial appointment.