Aesthetic Phlebology

Aesthetic phlebology is a subspecialty of phlebology (vein treatment) that focuses on the cosmetic treatment of dilated blood vessels and spider veins. Its goal is to improve the aesthetic appearance of the legs while assessing and preserving healthy blood circulation.

Most commonly treated conditions:

capillary networks (spider veins);
small dilated veins;
superficial bluish or reddish blood vessels on the legs;
aesthetic discomfort after pregnancy or hormonal changes.

Is it only cosmetic?

Although aesthetic phlebology primarily improves visual appearance, it is not just a beauty procedure. Before treatment, it is important to determine whether the dilated vessels are associated with deeper venous insufficiency. Therefore, duplex ultrasound of the veins is often performed prior to procedures.

If deep vein function is impaired, the underlying problem must be treated first, and only then can the cosmetic defect be effectively eliminated. Damage in deeper, larger veins disrupts circulation in superficial vessels, resulting in a visible vascular network. Depending on depth and size, vessels may range in color from bluish-black to reddish.

Methods Used in Aesthetic Phlebology

Depending on vessel type and depth, the following are used:

Sclerotherapy – closing dilated vessels using a special medication;
Laser therapy – suitable for small capillaries and spider veins;
Thermocoagulation – uses microwaves to eliminate unwanted vessels;
Combination methods for better results.

Modern methods are gentle, safe, and allow a quick return to daily activities.

Aesthetic phlebology is a modern and safe approach to treating dilated blood vessels. It improves the appearance of the legs and enhances well-being while ensuring a medically sound approach to vein health.

Cosmetic Treatment Methods

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a chemical ablation method used to close damaged or varicose veins by injecting a special medication (sclerosant). Depending on vein diameter, the sclerosant may be used in liquid or foam form. Foam sclerotherapy fully fills the damaged vessel segment, maximizing contact with vessel walls and producing a stronger effect.

The procedure improves leg appearance and reduces heaviness, swelling, and discomfort.

Indications:

spider veins;
reticular (bluish) veins;
small and medium varicose veins;
heaviness, fatigue, or swelling due to venous insufficiency;
aesthetically disturbing vein networks.

Transcutaneous Laser Therapy

A modern, gentle, and effective method for treating small dilated vessels. The procedure is performed through the skin (without incisions or injections) using laser energy to close the vessel gradually.

Used to treat:

spider veins;
small superficial vessels on the legs;
small reddish or bluish veins causing cosmetic concerns.

Laser pulses heat hemoglobin in the vessel, causing it to contract and close. Several sessions may be required depending on number, depth, and diameter.

Mild redness or sensitivity may occur afterward. The doctor may recommend skincare and compression therapy if necessary.

Thermocoagulation

A recognized method for treating vascular networks, telangiectasia, and rosacea. Unwanted vessels disappear immediately due to microwave thermal effects.

Over 70% of women and many men experience vascular networks during their lifetime.

Thermocoagulation eliminates even the smallest vessels that cannot be treated with microsclerotherapy and is suitable for the face and ankle areas.

The procedure lasts 10–15 minutes and can treat up to 40–50 cm of vessels. Patients can immediately return to normal activities. The skin is not damaged. A small papule may form and disappear within a few weeks.

Advantages:

immediate results;
completely painless;
no side effects (pigmentation, burns, inflammation, necrosis);
effective when properly performed;
suitable for all skin phototypes;
no seasonal restrictions;
no need to avoid sun exposure.

Technologies

“Baltic Vein Clinic” uses the following laser systems for laser therapy:

VBeam Perfecta

Pulsed dye laser – one of the world’s leading technologies for treating various vascular conditions and removing congenital and acquired skin pigmentation. It is used for superficial facial and leg vessels, slightly bluish veins up to 3 mm in diameter, telangiectasia, vascular networks, congenital hemangiomas, port-wine stains, diffuse skin redness, and rosacea.

Medilas D Multi Beam (940 nm) diode laser

Gentle closure of small superficial capillaries on both the face and legs. No anesthesia is required; cooling applications during and after the procedure are sufficient.

Quantum DL Nd:YAG laser system

Used for the treatment of vascular and skin pigment pathologies.

Wavelight MAYDON Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser

One of the most widely used vascular laser technologies worldwide, designed to treat various vascular formations, particularly venous networks.

Harmony XL Pro laser platform with DYE-VL (450–600 nm) laser

Used for the treatment of rosacea and pigmentation spots after sclerotherapy.

Cooled Long Pulsed Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser

For the removal of vascular lesions on the face and body (telangiectasia, hemangiomas, venous patterns on the legs).

Lumenis Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser

For the treatment of vascular formations, dilated capillaries (on the body and face), and persistent redness.

IPL system (Intense Pulsed Light)

This system enables closure of small capillaries on both the face and legs, as well as small veins using intense pulsed light.

Multifunctional Alma-Q laser platform

Q-switch mode combined with laser and IPL technology for removing or reducing pigmentation spots after vein surgery, capillary and small vessel networks, vascular lesions, and port-wine stains.