Vascular Laser Treatment

San Antonio Texas Vascular Laser Treatment

Laser Spider Vein and Rosacea Treatment

What can be done about unwanted veins? Spider veins, varicose veins, and other vascular lesions can be treated with laser therapy. Dr. Jose Barrera is a Stanford University fellowship trained and double board-certified plastic surgeon and a top provider of aesthetic treatments in San Antonio. He has extensive experience using laser technology to eliminate unsightly and uncomfortable veins on the face and body. He has published multiple article on laser resurfacing in ethnic skin and facial rejuvenation patients.

Contact us to learn more about vascular laser treatment in San Antonio, TX.

What Are Vascular Lesions? How Can I Remove Them?

Vascular lesions are a common problem affecting many men and women in Texas. They include spider veins, varicose veins, red-colored birthmarks, and rosacea. These aesthetic concerns and many others can be treated using powerful laser technology.  

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Before and after of patient with rosacea who underwent CO2 laser resurfacing:
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Photofractional Laser (combination of Erbium Glass ResurFX laser and IPL) for pigmentary changes due to sun exposure

The laser is targeted at the problem area. The laser we use focuses on red blood cells, found in abundance in vascular lesions. The laser heats these cells, without harming or damaging the surrounding tissues, and the blood vessel breaks down.

What vascular irregularities can be treated with laser energy? At Texas Center for Facial Plastic and Laser Surgery we use laser to treat:

  • Spider veins (telangiectasias)
  • Varicose veins
  • Vascular birthmarks including port wine stains
  • Rosacea

Come in for a consultation to learn about vascular lesions and the available treatment options. Our skilled plastic surgeon can help you find effective treatment solutions for your skin concerns.

Am I a Good Candidate for Vascular Laser Treatment?

Laser treatments are ideal for many of our patients. Before your procedure, you’ll meet with Dr. Barrera to ensure you’re a good candidate. He’ll talk with you about your medical history, medications, and goals for treatment.

Good candidates for vascular laser treatment:

  • Are in good overall health
  • Do not smoke or use nicotine products
  • Have unwanted vascular lesions, veins, or other skin conditions
  • Do not have bleeding disorders or problems with their blood vessels

If you’re considering this treatment, schedule a consultation to find out if you’re a good candidate. We have many treatment options available; if laser treatment isn’t right for you, Dr. Barrera can recommend other options.

Preparing for Your Vascular Laser Treatment

Vascular laser treatment requires very little preparation. We’ll provide detailed information at your consultation.

These tips can help you minimize complications and maximize results from your treatment.

  • Limit sun exposure before treatment. If you will be in the sun, wear sunscreen. The laser we use works best on skin that is not tanned.
  • Don’t take medications that thin the blood for a few days before treatment. These medications include aspirin and ibuprofen. If you’re currently taking a blood thinner, let Dr. Barrera know before your procedure.
  • Avoid wearing creams, lotions, and moisturizers on the treated areas when you come in for treatment. If you forget, we’ll cleanse the skin before your treatment.

What to Expect from a Laser Treatment for Spider Veins

Laser treatments for vascular lesions are performed in a treatment room at our office location. After we talk about the procedure and answer questions, the skin is cleansed to prepare for treatment. If a topical numbing cream is desired, it is applied before the procedure.

The laser handpiece is carefully moved over the area receiving treatment. Pulses of laser energy are delivered into the skin. This energy will target unwanted veins. The laser works quickly and we can treat single veins or larger problem areas with a single treatment.

Treatment times vary, depending on how many areas we are treating. Standard treatment times range from 15 minutes to one hour. Patients return home immediately after treatment.

Recovery After Vascular Laser Treatment in San Antonio

Recovery times depend on the extent of your treatment and how quickly your body heals. Most patients experience minimal downtime. Disruption to work and other daily activities is minimal.

Redness is a common side effect during and after treatment. You may not see an immediate improvement in the appearance of your unwanted veins. Most patients start to see improvement in two to six weeks after treatment as the veins gradually lighten and fade. Full results may take a few months.

Maintaining Your Results

Results of spider vein treatment are permanent, but new veins may develop. Any new veins can be easily treated with laser.

Vascular laser treatment can be paired with other cosmetic treatments including Botox®, dermal fillers, and cosmetic surgery.

Combination Facelift and Laser Skin Ressurfacing to address facial aging and pigment from sun damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vascular Laser Treatment in San Antonio

Most patients report very little pain and discomfort during and after treatment. The sensation experienced during treatment is described as a stinging sensation. We can use topical numbing medications if needed.

Vascular lasers can be used to treat rosacea. Talk with Dr. Barrera to find out if this is a good treatment option for you.

Laser treatment for spider and varicose veins as well as facial telengiectasia is highly effective. Many patients see results after their first treatment. Often one to two treatments will clear the skin and eliminate most problem veins. Some stubborn areas may need additional treatments. After we examine your skin, we can give you a good idea of how many treatments to expect.

Vascular laser treatments are highly effective. Our patients are very happy with the results we can achieve. The effectiveness of these treatments depends on the quantity, size, and type of vascular condition being treated. Most patients will see a dramatic clearing of the skin in treated areas.

Laser technology is changing the way we treat spider and varicose veins. Lasers can target smaller veins, allowing us to treat areas that sclerotherapy cannot. Sclerotherapy is still an effective option and may be a better fit than laser for some patients. Sclerotherapy may be an option for leg veins that are greater than 2 mm in size. Come in for a consultation to explore your options.

Vascular laser treatment for veins is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by most insurance policies.

Laser vein cost in San Antonio varies on the number of veins that need to be treated. Laser vein cost can be bundled in groups of 5 spider vein for example. However, individual lesions may be priced separately depending on location and size. Consult with Dr. Barrera at Texas Center for Facial Plastic and Laser Surgery to learn more.

If you have spider or varicose veins in San Antonio, contact Dr. Jose Barrera for a vascular laser consultation. Call our office at (210) 468-5426 to schedule a consultation.