Lunchtime fix: thread veins

If unsightly thread veins are ruining the look of your legs, get those blood vessels zapped with lasers. Just make sure you follow these guidelines, says David Gault, a consultant at the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and a laser practitioner.

WHAT IS IT? A method of destroying the thread vein by focusing a high-energy light beam on to it. The treatment is not suitable for everyone: some people may experience long-lasting bruising; others may find it fails to diminish their veins adequately. This can be indicated by a patch test.

IT’S FOR the removal of narrow thread veins (broken blood vessels that break through the skin’s top layer) on the face or body. Larger veins are more suitable for treatment with micro-sclerotherapy as they can be easily injected with a chemical solution.

SEE Your GP should be able to recommend a clinic. Or, visit a dermatologist who also does laser treatments. Look for clinics which have a doctor overseeing procedures. Beauticians operating lasers should be registered with the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC).

ASK how many times your practitioner has done the treatment and whether they have had training in laser safety. Make sure you wear goggles during treatment. And have a patch-test done first.

HOW LONG Quick. It takes only five or six seconds to treat a vein 3-4cm (1-2in) long.

FREQUENCY Usually two or three treatments at six to eight week intervals. Veins disappear permanently but can reappear in other places.

COMPLICATIONS It is normal for the veins to swell for a few days afterwards. A leakage of blood around the vein can even turn the surrounding pigment brown. This usually lasts for a few months. Your trial test should tell you if this, and excessive bruising, is going to be a problem. Keep the treated area moisturised.

AVOID If pregnant, taking aspirin or other medication that can cause bruising. It is advisable to wait for eczema and rashes to clear up before starting treatment, too.

COMPLAINTS If you’ve attended a private clinic, you should write to the director. Otherwise you could approach the NCSC (0191-233 3556).

COSTS The initial patch test and consultation £200

 

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