Spider veins are one of the most common vascular concerns we treat. Fine, visible vessels — red, blue, or purple — that sit close to the skin surface on the legs and ankles. They don’t resolve on their own. But with precise laser treatment, they can be significantly reduced or cleared entirely.
At Vein + Skin, spider vein removal is performed using the Cutera Excel V+ — a dual-wavelength laser system built specifically for vascular treatment. Every session begins with a careful assessment of the vessels being treated, so that energy is delivered at exactly the right parameters for each individual concern.
Spider veins — medically known as telangiectasias — are small, dilated blood vessels that have become permanently visible beneath the surface of the skin. They typically appear in clusters, often in a web-like or branching pattern, and are most commonly found on the thighs, calves, ankles, and behind the knees.
They form when small vessel walls weaken and dilate, allowing blood to pool rather than circulate efficiently. The vessel becomes visible through the skin as a result.
Spider veins are generally a cosmetic concern rather than a medical one — but they are progressive. Without treatment, existing vessels tend to become more prominent over time, and new ones can develop.
Common contributing factors include:
Laser treatment for spider veins works through a process called selective photothermolysis. Controlled pulses of laser energy are delivered to the skin above the targeted vessel. The haemoglobin within the blood vessel selectively absorbs this energy, converting it to heat. This heat causes the vessel wall to collapse and seal.
Over the following weeks, the body’s natural processes reabsorb the treated vessel — gradually clearing it from view. Surrounding skin tissue is largely unaffected throughout.
At Vein + Skin, the Cutera Excel V+ CoolView handpiece is used for leg vein treatment. It delivers both 532 nm and 1064 nm wavelengths, allowing treatment to be precisely calibrated to the depth, diameter, and colour of each individual vessel. Integrated sapphire cooling protects the skin surface and maintains comfort throughout the session.
Every spider vein treatment at Vein + Skin begins with a thorough evaluation of the vessels being treated. Factors including vessel size, depth, colour, and location all inform how treatment is calibrated. You’ll receive a clear explanation of the proposed approach and realistic expectations for outcome before any treatment begins.
Sessions are performed in-clinic. Treatment time depends on the number and distribution of vessels being addressed — most sessions are completed within 20 to 45 minutes. The sensation during treatment is typically described as a brief, sharp warmth as each pulse is delivered.
Some redness and mild swelling around the treated area is expected and typically settles within a few hours. Vessels may appear temporarily darker immediately following treatment before beginning to fade. Most patients can return to their normal routine the same day.
Results develop gradually. As the body clears the treated vessel, the vein becomes progressively less visible — most patients notice meaningful improvement within four to eight weeks following each session.
The number of treatments required depends on the size, depth, and number of vessels being addressed.
Fine, superficial vessels often respond well to one to two sessions. Larger or more established vessels may require additional treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal clearance.
A realistic indication of the likely number of sessions will be provided at your initial assessment.
Laser treatment clears existing vessels — it does not prevent new ones from forming. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and hormonal influences continue to play a role in vascular health over time.
Some patients return for periodic maintenance treatments as new vessels develop. Others find that a single course of treatment provides durable, long-term improvement.
Laser spider vein treatment is suitable for most adults with visible leg veins who are in good general health. A thorough assessment at consultation will confirm suitability and identify the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific concerns.
Treatment is not recommended during pregnancy. Vessels that are varicose in nature — larger, raised, or rope-like veins that bulge significantly above the skin surface — require a different clinical approach and will be identified and discussed at assessment.
Every treatment begins with a clear assessment, an honest conversation, and realistic expectations. Education first.
