For the removal of thread veins (telangiectasia)

The ultimate treatment for thread vein removal for face, legs and body, using the most advanced laser techniques

What are thread veins?
Thread veins are tiny, thin blood vessels, which run close to the surface of the skin and look line fine red or purple wiggly lines. They are also known as spider veins or broken veins. The medical term for this condition is telangiectasia. Although these super-fine veins are connected to the larger venous system they are not an essential part of it.

What causes thread veins?
A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins including, heredity, weight gain, prolonged standing or sitting. The use of certain medications. constrictive clothing, pregnancy and other events which cause hormonal shifts e.g. puberty, birth control pill, menopause and hormone therapy. Facial thread veins can also be caused by tight fitting glasses, squeezing spots, smoking. exposure to wind and cold and over exposure to the sun.

Laser treatment for thread veins
The Polaris_Nd:YAG laser provides a revolutionary non-invasive treatment, which can quickly and safely remove larger and deeper vessels leaving your skin looking smooth and your legs and face much improved. The redness and bruising associated with traditional treatments or other lasers are minimised or completely eliminated. Polaris provides the most risk free treatment for dark or tanned skin when compared to other existing treatments.

Which conditions can be treated?
· Facial thread veins, facial redness and flushing
· Unsightly broken and dilated vessels just under the skin on the body and legs
· Blood spots and spider naevi
· Consultant Dermatologists recommend treatment sooner rather than later, as small veins are easier to treat.

How does it work?
The laser works by emitting a specialised light which passes through the skin and is absorbed by its target - in this case the haemoglobin (the red portion of blood) in the unwanted vessels. The laser light energy is converted into thermal energy - the heat then coagulates the blood and destroys the function of the vein. Over time the vein is reabsorbed into the body and is no longer viable.

What to expect after the procedure
The appearance of the treated vessels will dramatically change, turning from blue and purple into light red. Any inflammation will subside within a couple of hours. The redness of the treated vessels will gradually disappear as the process progresses, which may take between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on the size of the veins treated.

Possible side effects
The most common side effect is bruising, or purpura, around the treated area, which normally resolves within days of treatment. Temporary hvperpigmentation (brown discolouration) or hypopigmnentation (lightening of the skin) may occur, but this is very rare. Temporary blistering and scabbing may occur on rare occasions but is highly unlikely.

How many treatments?
Quite often one treatment is sufficient to achieve full clearance but depending on the severity of the veins you may require two or three treatments. Treatments are approximately 6 weeks apart. Any new developing veins cannot be prevented so if your body tends to develop vascular problems you will most likely need to return for additional treatments.

Post laser treatment care
. Any initial reaction should settle down in a few days
. Avoid direct exposure to bright sunlight for two weeks and wear a sunscreen SPF 15 or higher for at least 48 hours
. Avoid sunbeds for 4 - 6 weeks
. Avoid abrasive scrubs and fake tans
. Avoid hot baths, saunas and excessive exercise for 2 weeks after thread veins and 6 - 8 weeks after larger veins or until bruising subsides
. If you have been wearing support aids such as stockings continue to use these until any bruising subsides
. After removal of large veins avoid flying for 6 weeks
. After facial treatments you may use make-up if necessary, remove with care and pat the skin dry

Consultation and test patch (£10 redeemable against first treatment)	£30
Up to 80 laser shots	£125
80 - 200 laser shots	£200