Leg Vessels
WHAT CAUSES LEG VESSELS?
Leg vessels are veins that become visible or bulging on the legs. They can be caused by various factors, such as:
– Weak or damaged valves in the veins that allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins, causing them to stretch or twist. This can happen due to aging, sex, hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, standing or sitting for long periods, smoking, family history, trauma, or certain underlying conditions. This condition is called *varicose veins* .
– A build-up of fatty deposits (atheroma) in the walls of the leg arteries that narrow and restrict blood flow to the legs. This can happen due to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, or family history. This condition is called peripheral artery disease (PAD).
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Laser treatment for leg vessels involves using a specialised laser to deliver intense bursts of light energy to the affected area. The light energy is absorbed by the targeted blood vessels, causing them to shrink and eventually disappear. This process is called photocoagulation.
Laser treatment for leg vessels is a safe and effective non-invasive method of removing spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure typically takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE TREATMENT?
During a laser treatment to treat leg vessels, you can expect the following:
Protective eye shields may also be placed on your eyes to protect them from the laser light.
During the procedure, our somatolgist will use a laser to emit controlled bursts of laser energy onto the surface of the skin. The energy is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels, causing them to heat up and eventually collapse. The destroyed vessels are then absorbed and eliminated by the body’s natural processes.
You may feel a warm or hot sensation during the treatment, but it shouldn’t be painful. You may also hear a snapping or popping sound as the laser hits the blood vessels. The treatment typically lasts between 15 and 45 minutes.
AFTER THE TREATMENT?
You may experience some redness, swelling, or bruising after the treatment. You should also avoid sun exposure and strenuous physical activity for the first few days after the treatment.
You may see an improvement in the appearance of your leg vessels immediately after the treatment, but it may take several weeks for the full results to be visible.
HOW MANY SESSIONS
The number of laser treatments needed to treat leg vessels depends on the severity and size of the vessels. Generally, multiple treatments are required to achieve optimal results.
On average, patients may need 2-4 laser treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart. However, patients with larger or more complex leg vessels may require additional treatments.
The number of treatments needed will be discussed during the initial consultation with your somatologist.

