Are there negative side effects from using a laser on veins under the eyes?

Question

My previous question has pictures of my under eye veins and many doctors are recommending lasers. Is this a risky procedure? Can it turn out worse?

Jeffrey Gosin, MD, FACS · Answer

I consider laser to be the treatment of choice for most facial veins, although other treatments can be used as well depending on the particular vein.  Laser will usually work safely and effectively and the main side effect is temporary bruising.  However, the veins should be outside of the orbit of the eye, or be able to be pulled outside of the orbit.  For veins on the eyelids, or close to the eye lids, special corneal protectors need to be used for eye protection.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

It’s important to distinguish between varicose veins and spider veins when choosing between laser therapy, sclerotherapy, and vein surgery. With two board certified vein specialists, our center uses a combination of visual examination, functional flow measurements, ultrasound, transillumination, and infrared light to map out vein networks prior to therapy. Lasers can be used to treat deep varicose vein insufficiency, vein perforators, and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is ideal for spider veins and reticular veins. Whereas surgery is reserved for severely incompetent varicose vein segments.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! As with most treatments, there are potential minor side effects. These may include prickling sensation from nerve damage, minor skin burns, and swelling. These side effects are not serious and can be minimized under the expert care of an experienced vein specialist. 
An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and obtain expert medical advice. Best of luck!

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

If the under eye veins are small and amenable to laser treatment, the most likely untoward side effect would be hyperpigmentation. This may be reduced with the application of HQ and non HQ based topical creams. See link below. Larger veins are best treated with microphlebectomy. This is my area of expertise. Hratch L Karamanoukian MD FACSVein Specialist

John Landi, MD · Answer

Under eye veins can be treated by many methods and all work with minimum risk to you.  You may get some swelling or bruising and you may need more than one treatment to resolve the vein.  The type of treatment offered depends on the size and location of the vein and the experience of the physician doing the treatment.

Are there negative side effects from using a laser on veins under the eyes?

Answers (5)

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