Cosmetic laser specialist
Carolyn Smyth, R.N.
Carolyn specializes in laser hair removal, photorejuvenation, skin resurfacing and photodynamic therapy.
- 20+ years nursing experience
- Certified laser specialist
- Medical laser educator
About this treatment
Target small visible veins without an injection.
Laser vein therapy directs focused light energy at a visible blood vessel, gently heating it so it can gradually fade. It is most often considered for spider veins and small superficial veins, either as an alternative to injections or alongside sclerotherapy, depending on the vessel's size, depth and location.
Laser vein therapy works from the skin's surface. Focused light heats the targeted vessel so it can close and fade gradually without an injection into the vein.
The clinic focuses this treatment on spider veins, small visible veins and superficial vessels. Larger veins, pain, swelling, heaviness or circulation-related skin changes may need further medical assessment or referral.
Surface vessels need a precise target.
The laser is selected for small, visible vessels that can absorb light through the skin. Vessel colour, diameter, depth and surrounding skin tone guide the settings and whether laser or sclerotherapy is the better starting point.
A Registered Nurse reviews the treatment area and aftercare, including temporary colour change, warmth and sun protection. Veins associated with ongoing pain, swelling, heaviness or circulation concerns may need a different medical assessment.
Match the treatment to the vessel.
Laser vein treatment and sclerotherapy are different approaches to visible vessels. Their suitability depends on features such as location and vessel size, as well as your skin and symptoms. Ask why one approach is being considered for the area that concerns you.
Tell us about previous vein treatment and any skin reaction after a laser procedure. If your legs ache or swell, mention that at the outset. Your assessment should consider those symptoms rather than treating every visible vessel as an isolated cosmetic issue.
Common questions
Which veins are suited to laser treatment?
Laser vein therapy may suit selected small, superficial visible vessels. Size, depth, location and your skin influence the recommendation, so a photograph or colour alone cannot establish eligibility. Tell us whether the concern is cosmetic or accompanied by aching, swelling or other symptoms; symptoms may require a medical vein assessment before an appearance-focused procedure is considered.
How is it different from sclerotherapy?
Laser targets a vessel from outside the skin using light, while sclerotherapy introduces a solution into the vein. Neither is automatically the best choice for every vessel. Ask why one approach is recommended for the pattern you have, whether several visits could be needed and whether any deeper vein issue should be investigated before treating the visible surface.
What does treatment feel like?
You may feel brief warmth, snapping or stinging as energy is directed at a vessel. Sensation depends on the area and treatment settings. Describe any previous laser reaction or concern about discomfort during your consultation, and ask how to communicate during the session; understanding what is expected helps you distinguish a normal sensation from something the provider should assess.
What should I expect afterward?
Temporary redness, tenderness, swelling or bruising can occur, and pigment changes are possible. Ask about sun exposure, heat, activity and skincare for the specific area treated. The vessel's appearance can change gradually rather than disappearing at once, so clarify review timing and which unexpected changes should prompt contact instead of waiting for the next planned appointment.
Can laser vein therapy treat every visible vein?
No. Larger, deeper or symptomatic veins may need another treatment or diagnostic assessment. A cosmetic plan should explain which vessels are being targeted and which are outside its scope. Mention pain, swelling, previous clots or prior vein procedures before booking, and ask whether referral is needed so a visible vein is not treated in isolation from a broader concern.
Why does vessel colour matter?
Light interacts with the blood in the vessel, while skin pigment also influences how energy is absorbed. Colour is therefore only one part of assessment alongside depth, size and skin tone. Ask how those factors affect the proposed settings and expected result; two veins that look similar to you may need different approaches when assessed clinically.
Who performs it
Recommendations are informational. A clinical consultation is required to confirm suitability, risks and expected results.
Vein care
Explore by Treatment Type.
Sclerotherapy
Injectable treatment for unwanted leg veins.
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BOTOX COSMETIC®
Soften facial expression lines with a treatment plan guided by your consultation.
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Laser Hair Removal
Permanent hair reduction handled by trained staff at our Burlington clinic.
See details ↗What patients say
“I first saw Susan for Botox back in 2005 and have trusted her ever since. She has an excellent eye for detail and always keeps the results natural and symmetrical.”
“I've been a client of Sue at Laser Aesthetics for over seven years, and her care continues to impress me. She listens attentively to my concerns and addresses them with exceptional knowledge, skill, and expertise.”
“I have been receiving Botox injections for a number of years. The effective procedures have lasted 3-5 months. The team has always been kind, gentle and professional.”
“The entire team at Laser Aesthetics are not only consummate professionals but I feel like I'm talking to old friends from the moment I call to book an appointment.”
“I never feel rushed and Sue always takes the time to answer any questions or concerns I have. I have always been pleased with my results and wouldn't go anywhere else.”
Complimentary. Confidential. No pressure.
