Walk In. Walk Out. With Little to No Down Time®

At Vein Specialists of the South, we are committed to providing you with the best vein care designed to meet individual needs, delivered with WOW service. Our comprehensive approach to spider vein treatment includes a range of options – among them state-of-the-art laser therapy – so that you and your provider can determine the best path toward Better Veins for Life®.

Understanding Spider Veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, damaged blood vessels that appear close to the skin’s surface. They often resemble spider webs or tree branches and can be red, blue or purple. While these tiny vessels rarely cause physical symptoms, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Spider veins develop when tiny, one-way valves inside the veins weaken. In healthy veins, these valves push blood in one direction—back to our heart. When these valves weaken, some blood flows backward and accumulates in the vein. The extra blood in the vein puts pressure on the vein walls. With continual pressure, the vein walls weaken and bulge.

Common Causes of Spider Veins

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Prolonged standing or sitting
  • Hormonal changes
  • Sun exposure
  • Aging
  • Pregnancy
  • Injury
  • Previous vein conditions

Real Patients, Real Results

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Individual Results May Vary

Is Laser Therapy Right for Your Spider Veins?

At Vein Specialists of the South, we believe in matching each patient with the most effective treatment for their unique needs. For spider veins, the most effective treatment is sclerotherapy — a proven, minimally invasive approach with superior outcomes for the majority of patients. However, we understand that some patients may prefer to explore laser-based options, which is why we’ve partnered with Spa Medical to offer laser therapy as an alternative.

Considerations for Laser Therapy

  1. Noninvasive: No needles, incisions, or injections required
  2. Minimal discomfort: Generally well-tolerated with topical numbing cream
  3. Quick sessions: Treatments typically last 15–30 minutes
  4. No downtime: Most patients return to normal activities right away
  5. Best for select cases: Laser therapy may be most appropriate for very small or superficial spider veins, specifically on the face
  6. Available through our partner: Laser treatments are provided in collaboration with Spa Medical

Not sure which treatment is right for you? Our board-certified vein specialists will evaluate your veins and recommend the most effective option.

How Laser Therapy Works

During laser treatment, your doctor will direct the laser light directly at the spider vein. The laser can destroy the vein without damaging your skin.

The laser sends a focused beam onto the skin where the affected veins can be seen. The laser light passes through the skin, heating the targeted vein and making it collapse. The surrounding skin is not harmed.

Advanced lasers deliver penetrating pulses of light energy directly into spider veins. Using guided lasers, we can target the vein, allowing it to be reabsorbed by the body.

What to Expect

1

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with one of our vein specialists. We’ll evaluate your medical history, examine your spider veins, and determine if laser therapy is right for you.

2

Preparing for Your Procedure

To ensure the best results, you must avoid direct exposure to the sun on the area being treated at least two weeks before the appointment, with four to six weeks being preferable. A sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) should be used, or the area should be completely covered.

On the day of your treatment:

  • Avoid applying lotions, creams, or makeup on the treatment area
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
  • Stay hydrated
3

During Your Laser Treatment

You’ll change into a pair of shorts and lie down on an exam table. You may be given special goggles or eyeglasses to wear during the procedure to protect your eyes from the laser light. Most spider vein laser sessions take 15-30 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

While you will not have any cuts or scars, you’ll feel something like a rubber band flicking the skin on the treated area.

To maximize your comfort, we offer:

  • Topical numbing creams
  • Cooling devices
  • Pro-Nox (“laughing gas”) for pain and anxiety relief
4

After Your Treatment

Most patients can return to work or normal activities the next day. Smaller veins may disappear after treatment, while more prominent veins turn dark and fade over 1-3 months.

For optimal results:

  • Apply cold compresses if needed to reduce discomfort
  • Avoid sun exposure to the treated area
  • Wear compression stockings as recommended
  • Keep the treated area clean and moisturized
  • Stay active with walking to promote circulation
  • Attend all follow-up appointments
5

Results and Follow-Up

Usually, more than one laser session is needed to achieve optimal results. Your doctor may prescribe these sessions every few weeks.

Over time – usually, in four to six weeks after treatment – the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body and disappears. Blood gets rerouted to healthier veins.

Laser Therapy vs. Other Treatment Options

At Vein Specialists of the South, we offer a variety of treatments for spider veins. While laser therapy is excellent for certain types of spider veins, other options may be more appropriate depending on your specific condition.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive spider vein treatment that works by injecting a sclerosing agent into the troublesome vessel. When injected, the solution irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing it to seal closed. The vessel eventually becomes scar tissue and disappears as the body absorbs it.

Combination Therapy

In some cases, a combination of laser treatment and sclerotherapy may be best for completely removing veins. Our vein specialists will determine the most effective approach for your unique situation.

Is Laser Therapy Right for You?

Laser therapy can be one of the most effective spider vein treatment options for a variety of patients. The ideal patient is in good overall health, does not smoke, and has realistic expectations for the procedure. It may also be the best choice if you are allergic to the chemicals used in sclerotherapy, afraid of needles or have spider veins that are too small to be injected.

Laser treatment is particularly effective for:

  • Small, superficial spider veins
  • Spider veins on the face
  • Red-colored spider veins

Safety and Side Effects

Laser treatment is noninvasive and requires minimal recovery time. Because laser therapy requires specialized licensing and expertise, Vein Specialists of the South has partnered with the laser-licensed professionals at Spa Medical to ensure this treatment is delivered with the highest standards of safety and care. Together, we take every precaution to minimize risk and ensure your comfort throughout the process.

Potential side effects may include:

  • Temporary redness or swelling
  • Mild discomfort during treatment
  • Skin sensitivity
  • Rare cases of blistering or pigment changes

Why Choose Vein Specialists of the South for Laser Therapy?

Credentials

We are dedicated to providing the ‘best and most advanced’ vein care. Our commitment to continuing education in the treatment of vein disease is ongoing. Our physicians are Board Certified and have extensive training in vascular medicine and minimally invasive vein procedures.

Accreditation

The VSS vascular ultrasound lab is accredited through the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC). This means you can trust that our equipment, staff, and protocols meet the highest industry standards.

Research

The VSS team participates in nationally recognized vein research. Our research has been recognized at the Annual Congress of the American College of Phlebology on several occasions, including the Platinum Research Award 2007.

Educators

The VSS team is passionate about vein education. Our team members regularly speak at regional and national phlebology meetings, practice management seminars, and vein care conferences. Providers from throughout the country come to VSS to learn from our vein specialists at the Comprehensive Vein Training Center.

Excellence

VSS is committed to providing ‘excellence’ in vein care. Our team offers the best care, using the latest advances in equipment and procedures. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in thousands of satisfied patients who have come to expect the right care at the right time every time.

Service

VSS is known for ‘WOW’ service. At VSS, the patient comes first, and the medical team is excited to be a part of their care. Our practice culture is committed to going above and beyond expectations.

Experience

We have over 25 years of experience offering ‘Comprehensive Vein Care,’ and many of our management and clinical staff have been part of the VSS team for over 10 years. Our staff is like family, and it shows. We treat each other and our patients with love and respect while providing consistent quality care.

Innovation

VSS introduced a number of minimally invasive vein procedures to Georgia, including the first endovenous closure procedure in the state in the early 2000s. Our promise to you is to remain at the forefront of innovation while providing the best customized treatment plan for each patient.

Begin Your Journey to Better Veins for Life®

If you’re ready to say goodbye to unsightly spider veins, the team at Vein Specialists of the South is here to help. Our laser therapy treatments offer a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution to help you achieve the clear, beautiful skin you desire.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward Better Veins for Life®.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a laser treatment session take?

Most laser therapy sessions for spider veins take 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and number of veins being treated.

Is laser therapy painful?

Laser treatment is somewhat painful. A topical anesthetic may be used to reduce discomfort during the procedure. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

Many people experience significant improvements with one laser treatment. However, to entirely remove spider veins, you may need up to five or six sessions. The larger the spider vein, the more treatments you’ll likely need.

Are the results permanent?

Results are technically permanent as long as the “feeder vein” or origin vein is removed. This doesn’t prevent new spider veins from appearing in the future. Following preventive measures can help maintain your results.

Is there any downtime after laser therapy?

Without varicose or spider veins, your legs appear youthful, and you’ll feel great in shorts or bathing suits. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after treatment, though some may experience mild redness or swelling for a short time.

Is laser therapy covered by insurance?

Laser treatments are not typically covered by insurance, as they are often considered cosmetic treatments. However, if your vein condition is causing physical symptoms, treatment might be covered. Our team can help you understand your insurance options.

Can all skin types be treated with laser therapy?

Some laser systems are better suited for specific skin types than others. During your consultation, our specialists will evaluate your skin type and recommend the most appropriate laser treatment.

How do I prepare for laser treatment?

Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for at least 2-4 weeks before treatment. We recommend avoiding blood-thinning medications (with your doctor’s approval) and staying well-hydrated.

Can laser therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes, in many cases, combining laser therapy with other treatments like sclerotherapy can provide optimal results. Your vein specialist will create a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

How soon will I see results?

Some patients notice immediate improvement, but optimal results typically develop over 4-6 weeks as the body naturally absorbs the treated veins.

Take the First Step – Call Today

Since 1997, Vein Specialists of the South has helped thousands of patients like you with varicose veins, spider veins, and leg swelling. Dr. Kenneth Harper is a leader in vein health is a Diplomat of the American Board of Surgery and the American Vein and Lymphatic Medicine. Terri Harper, MSN, FNP-C, is a renowned educator in the field of cosmetic sclerotherapy. Our dedicated nurse injectors have been trained by the best.

At Vein Specialists of the South, we have a passion for veins – big and small. We’ve helped over 30,000 people get Better Veins for Life®. Call today to schedule an appointment with the VSS team, where ‘Veins Aren’t Just One Thing We Do, They Are the Only Thing We Do.®’