Laser treatment of varicose veins on legs

Here the most noticeable change is in the small surface veins at first, but you can actually see that the deeper larger vein network has also become less visible.

Varicose veins on the legs are a common aesthetic and functional issue in women and men. They can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and cosmetic discomfort, limit clothing choices, and noticeably reduce quality of life. Modern medical lasers allow selective coagulation of small-diameter vessels without incisions or hospitalization, provided safety protocols are strictly followed. For some patients the laser is a stand-alone method, for others it complements sclerotherapy and serves as the finishing stage after venous surgery.

Why the laser works

Long-pulse Nd:YAG 1064 nm (and medical 1064 nm diode systems) provides deep penetration and selective heating of hemoglobin in leg veins, which lie deeper and are wider than facial capillaries. This allows coagulation of reticular and bluish venules up to about 3 mm (sometimes more) with a predictable safety profile when energy, pulse duration, spot size, and effective cooling are correctly set. In some cases, combining laser with sclerotherapy is beneficial, especially when feeder segments are present.

Dr. Uskov Clinic approach

• We use only modern, safe, medical-grade laser technologies.

• We have devices with the necessary wavelengths for vascular indications, including 1064 nm (Nd:YAG or diode), as well as platforms for superficial telangiectasias.

• Treatments are performed by specialists with extensive experience in vascular laser procedures. Parameter selection and contact or air cooling are strictly individualized.

• When indicated, we use combined protocols: management of feeders by a vascular surgeon with foam sclerotherapy followed by laser tracing (“foam → laser”) to accelerate the clinical result.

How many sessions are needed

Under our protocols most patients with reticular veins need one or two sessions. More sessions may be required for touch-ups or varicose veins that are larger.

The outcome is influenced by:

• Number and diameter of vessels, and their depth

• Color (blue or green vessels are usually deeper and require different settings than red “webs”)

• Age, hormonal factors, connective-tissue status, concomitant venous insufficiency

• Adherence to aftercare (compression, sun protection, and more)

Even with favorable baseline factors a repeat session may be needed. This is normal and reflects stepwise vessel closure.

How treatment works at our clinic

• In-person consultation. History and examination. If needed: digital dermatoscopy, infrared mapping, discussion of alternatives (sclerotherapy or microphlebectomy) and expected effect.

• Diagnostics and plan. If perforators or reflux are suspected, referral for ultrasound. If confirmed, a staged plan is made: first correct reflux, then perform aesthetic treatment of the “web.”

• The procedure. Vessel treatment with lasers using precise fluence, pulse, and spot settings plus active cooling. If indicated, combination with foam sclerotherapy in a single visit.

• After the procedure. Skin care, limiting heat and UV, cold and leg elevation in the first hours if needed, compression stockings for 3 to 7 days, follow-up visit. Compression improves comfort and cosmetic outcome.

Safety: our priority

Our goal is reliable vessel closure without serious side effects or complications. Managing vascular problems requires high-level physician skill and precise knowledge of anatomy and parameters. Typical reactions, usually reversible, include erythema or swelling and a feeling of “tightness.” Very rare reactions include superficial crusts or blisters, transient hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, less often matting (a fine “dusting” of vessels) or recanalization. Risk is minimized by proper assessment, expert settings and diligent aftercare.

Contraindications and precautions:

Pregnancy or breastfeeding, active dermatoses in the area, photosensitizing medications, recent tan, decompensated illnesses, high risk of thrombosis. If necessary we recommend additional tests or a minor surgical step (for example, microphlebectomy of a feeding branch) before aesthetic correction.

In conclusion

Laser removal of reticular veins on the legs is an effective, well-studied technique. In our clinic it is often performed in one or two sessions, and for extensive involvement we use a course based on Dr. Uskov’s protocol. We use only modern and safe technologies, select parameters individually, and combine methods when needed to achieve the optimal aesthetic result without complications.

To understand your specific treatment options, post-procedure guidelines, and expected outcome, an in-person consultation is required. The doctor will examine you and, if needed, perform digital dermatoscopy, infrared mapping, and ultrasound, then propose a personalized plan.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the effect last?

Closed vessels generally do not return, although new veins can appear over time due to predisposition or load. We provide prevention advice and, if needed, maintenance sessions.

Does it hurt? Is anesthesia needed?

You will feel warmth or tingling. We use effective cryo-cooling and sapphire contact cooling, which greatly improves comfort.

When is the result visible?

Often right away. The vessel darkens or “disappears,” then the body clears the coagulated vessel over several weeks.

Can I work out immediately?

On the day of the procedure we recommend a gentle regimen. Intense training and heat should be avoided for 7 to 14 days. Compression may be prescribed at your physician’s discretion.