Some people notice fine, visible surface veins on the legs that they find cosmetically bothersome.

For selected individuals, and after appropriate assessment, vascular-targeted laser treatments may be used to help improve the visible appearance of certain small superficial vessels.

Leg Veins

What it may help with

For appropriate candidates, treatment may be aimed at improving the appearance of:

  • Fine, small, visible surface leg vessels thought to be superficial veins

This cosmetic approach is not used to diagnose or treat underlying venous disease, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis or other circulatory conditions.

Any change in appearance, and how noticeable it is, differs from person to person.

Our approach

Before any cosmetic treatment is considered, your clinician will:

  • Take a relevant medical history, including symptoms such as pain, swelling, heaviness or previous clots

  • Examine the pattern and distribution of visible veins

  • Decide whether the visible vessels appear suitable for cosmetic laser treatment, or whether you would be better served by medical review (for example, with a GP or vascular specialist)

If cosmetic treatment is considered appropriate for small superficial veins, the plan may include:

  • Use of a vascular-targeted laser device (such as Cutera excel V+ or similar technology) with settings selected for your skin type and vessel pattern

  • A staged program where treatments are spaced over time and the response is reviewed

Larger, deeper or symptomatic veins are not treated in this cosmetic setting and are usually referred for further medical assessment.

Safety, risks & aftercare

All light- and laser-based procedures carry risks.

Before any treatment, your practitioner will:

  • Explain the proposed procedure, potential benefits, limitations and alternatives (including not treating)

  • Discuss possible risks and side effects, including less common but more significant complications

  • Provide written aftercare instructions tailored to your skin, vein pattern and the treatment used

Book a Treatment or a Complimentary Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to provide clear, balanced information so you can make informed decisions about your care. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the clinic to discuss them with a member of our team.

  • No. Larger, bulging or symptomatic veins (for example, with pain, swelling or skin changes) are generally referred to a GP or vascular specialist for assessment and management. The clinic’s cosmetic approach is limited to selected small, superficial leg vessels in suitable individuals.

  • Many people require more than one session, with treatments spaced weeks apart. The number of sessions depends on vessel density, pattern, skin type and response. Your practitioner will outline a staged approach, but a fixed number of sessions or specific cosmetic outcome cannot be guaranteed.

  • Most people can return to everyday activities soon after treatment, but:

    • Bruising, tenderness or redness may be present for several days

    • You may be advised to avoid hot environments and strenuous exercise for a period

    • Compression and walking guidance may be provided

    Your practitioner will explain what this means for your usual routine.

  • Some people see changes in treated vessels over 2–8 weeks, while others experience more modest or slower change. Some veins may not clear fully, and new visible veins can appear over time. Results differ between individuals and cannot be predicted in advance.

  • All procedures carry risks. Short-term effects can include redness, bruising, local tenderness and mild swelling. Less common but more significant risks include pigment change (dark or light spots), matting (fine new vessels), blistering or superficial skin breakdown, and scarring. Your practitioner will discuss these before you decide whether to proceed.

  • Aftercare instructions will be specific to your treatment but may include:

    • Walking as recommended

    • Using compression garments if advised

    • Avoiding heat and high-impact activities for a defined period

    • Protecting treated legs from sun exposure with clothing and SPF 50+ once skin is intact

    If you have unexpected or worrying symptoms, you should seek medical advice promptly and contact the clinic.