The blood vessels that run under the skin are often the source of formations on the skin. Whether it is a red birthmark, varicose vein, or splotchy redness from broken capillaries, blood vessels can affect your appearance. One of the best treatments for removing vein or blood vessel malformations is laser therapy. Here is what you need to know about laser treatments for various types of blood vessel malformations.
Types of Cosmetic Blood Vessel Abnormalities
Blood vessel abnormalities come in many forms. Some occur at birth, while others may not be noticeable until later in childhood or during the adult years. When blood vessels cluster together or become enlarged, it can change the skin’s appearance. Many of these conditions are benign and do not pose a health threat, but they can affect the aesthetics of the skin. Some typical blood vessel growths or malformations include:
- Hemangiomas. These include port wine stains and various birthmarks that are usually present at birth. Many hemangiomas disappear in childhood, but not all. It is common for these red or purple growths to appear on the face or neck, causing disfigurement.
- Vascular malformations. Like hemangiomas, most vascular malformations are present at birth, but they may not appear until later in life. They can look similar to hemangiomas, with red, purple, or brown/black growths that may appear raised.
- Spider and varicose veins. Both spider and varicose veins are damaged blood vessels that are not performing correctly, allowing blood to backflow. They are common on the legs.
- Broken capillaries. Red splotches on the face from rosacea and other conditions are usually broken capillaries. This can be a genetic condition that affects the blood vessels under the skin.
All these conditions are very different, but they all have something in common – abnormal blood vessels that can cause discolorations on the skin. Another thing they have in common is that many can be removed with laser treatments.
Laser Therapy for Vascular Skin Conditions
Laser treatments are ideal for removing many abnormal or damaged blood vessels. Specific lasers use light energy that is attracted to the hemoglobin in blood vessels, a process that is called selective photo thermolysis. The light energy heats the blood vessels without harming the surrounding skin or tissue, causing them to dissolve. Different laser settings can be used for the removal of birthmarks, vascular malformations, spider veins, or broken capillaries.
Laser skin treatments are usually painless and require little or no downtime. The number of treatments needed depends on the blood vessel condition – broken capillaries or spider veins may only need one treatment, while vascular malformations or hemangiomas may need multiple sessions.
If you have a blood vessel malformation that you want to be removed, laser treatment may be an option. To learn more about skin laser treatments for birthmarks or vein conditions, contact our team at Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC. Call our center in Atlanta, GA to schedule a laser treatment consultation.
