Is Cutaneous Laser Therapy Safe?

Posted on September 2nd, 2022 by Texas Vein & Wellness Institute

Cutaneous laser therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for spider veins. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved. Be sure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before you decide whether or not to undergo treatment.

How Do I Prepare for Cutaneous Laser Therapy?

Before laser skin treatments, you should:

• Quit smoking. Proper healing can be impeded by smoking.
• Don’t take certain medications. Excessive bleeding can be caused by aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Refrain from certain activities. During the two weeks before the procedure, you should refrain from sunbathing, tanning beds, or waxing.
• Stop using topical skin care products. Complications may occur from certain ingredients.

Following laser skin treatments, it is essential to:

• Avoid unprotected sun exposure.
• Apply sun block with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher every time you go outside.
• During the first week after treatment, do not wear makeup.
• Avoid smoking. Smoking can interfere with proper healing.

Post-Treatment Expectations

Several weeks after the treatment, you may not notice any significant changes. You may also need more than one treatment. The following issues may also arise post-procedure:

• There may be some pinkness or redness on the treated area for 4 to 8 hours afterward.
• The treatment area may feel like a mild sunburn with a slight stinging sensation. Within 4 to 6 hours, this sensation usually subsides. Applying cool packs or moist cloths can reduce the sensation.
• There is usually some swelling in the treatment area that dissipates after a few days.

If the treated area shows redness and stinging, do not apply makeup or lotion for at least 24 hours. For at least 3 months after the last treatment, use a good moisturizing lotion twice daily on the treated area. 

How Do I Maintain the Results of My Cutaneous Laser Therapy?

Cutaneous laser therapy is an effective treatment for spider veins. However, once the spider veins have undergone treatment, it is essential to take steps to maintain the results.

Some of the things you can do to maintain the results of your cutaneous laser therapy for spider veins include:

Wearing compression stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help to prevent new spider veins from forming.

Avoiding injury to the skin: Avoiding injury to the skin can help to prevent new spider veins from forming.

Taking breaks: Taking breaks from standing or sitting for long periods can help prevent new spider veins from forming.

Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to improve circulation and prevent new spider veins from forming.

Exercising: Exercising can help to improve circulation and prevent new spider veins from forming.

What Are The Risks of Laser Therapy for Spider Veins?

Laser therapy is generally safe, but there are a few risks associated with the treatment, including:

• Pain
• Skin discoloration
• Burning
• Swelling
• Blistering
• Scarring
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Crusting

These side effects are rare and usually only occur when the laser is improperly used. There is also a small risk of blood clots forming in the treated veins. This can be a serious complication, but it is rare. If you are considering laser therapy for your spider veins, talk to your doctor about all the risks and side effects.

How Long Do Results From the Treatment Last?

The benefits of laser therapy last between 3 and 5 years on average for most patients. A touch-up or supplementary treatment may be necessary every so often for patients to maintain their treatment.