Ronald J. Caniglia, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Using the latest in laser technology, we can remove unattractive spider veins from the legs and red spots from the skin. Most skin types and colors can be safely and effectively treated. The laser can treat large numbers of red spots in a very short period of time. When treating spider veins, laser therapy is most effective on small- and medium-sized veins, typically those up to 2mm in diameter. The laser can also be effective as a follow-up to other therapies, such as sclerotherapy, and when treating veins which are resistant to other treatments. It is also a particularly appealing alternative for patients who are opposed to needles or surgery.
Dr. Caniglia performs laser surgery at the Plastic Surgery Center at Kierland, located within the Caniglia Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. This freestanding outpatient surgery center is licensed by both Medicare and the Arizona State Department of Health and is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare (AAAHC). The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may take anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour to complete depending on the size and number of treatment areas. A local or topical anesthetic may be used. There are several different types of lasers available, and the choice of laser will depend on the type and size of vein or red spot. Once applied to the vein or red spot, the laser sends out very strong bursts of light which cause the vein or red spot to shrink and fade without damaging the surrounding skin.
Smaller veins and red spots may appear less visible or may have disappeared completely after treatment. Other veins, especially larger ones, may appear darker and more visible at first, but these will fade over the next two to six weeks. Mild swelling or redness may occur during the first few days but these side effects typically resolve quickly. Changes in skin pigmentation, either darkening or lightening of the skin, can also occur but this should fade within one to three months. Patients usually experience little postoperative pain and there is minimal follow-up care necessary. Normal activities can be resumed immediately, though the treatment area should be protected from sun exposure for four to six weeks after treatment. Multiple treatments are often necessary. Depending on their severity, leg veins may require two to five treatments, while red spots can typically be treated in just one to two visits. Though risks are generally rare, poorly performed laser surgery can result in burns or scarring.
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