Veinwave

The objective

Veinwave® is a micro-thermocoagulation treatment, which works like a microwave to reduce the appearance of thread veins and broken blood vessels on the face and legs.

It uses a series of intense microwaves to heat and break up the vein. This is seen as a gentler and more effective alternative to laser treatment, and is more precise than sclerotherapy.

The procedure

The procedure takes around 15 minutes, and patients are normally assessed for suitability prior to treatment.

The practitioner will insert a fine insulated needle alongside the vein. A microwave current is passed through the needle, which destroys the blood vessel and prevents it from growing again.

Usually only one treatment will be needed, however several sessions may be necessary in some cases.

The outcome

Following the procedure, the treated area will look pink and small scabs or crusts may form. These will usually heal quickly.

Normally, you can leave the clinic a few minutes after the procedure. You can usually return to work and resume activities immediately.

You can expect that the treated vein will not come back as a result of this procedure, however, depending on your medical condition, other veins may develop in the future.

The risks

Veinwave carries a small risk of scarring, however no other complications are known as a result of this procedure.

Patients who are pregnant or epileptic should not have this treatment. If you are allergic to nickel, ensure you advise your surgeon.

The costs

Usually, one Veinwave® procedure will cost just under £200.

The availability

Veinwave® is widely available at private cosmetic surgery clinics and specialist skin care clinics within the UK and abroad.

The popularity

Veinwave® is a popular new procedure in the UK, and has replaced more conventional vein treatments like sclerotherapy and laser treatment. This method is most commonly used by men and women to remove spider veins on cheeks and around the nose.