What is a threadvein?
Threadveins are very small veins in the skin itself. They look like thin red or blue lines in the skin. They don’t cause any symptoms but are visible so you may dislike their appearance. Threadveins are extremely common. They may be associated with rosacea or previous sun exposure.
Laser treatment of threadveins
Laser treatment is a safe and effective way of treating facial redness and threadveins by shutting down the blood vessels with minimal effect on the surrounding skin.
How successful is laser treatment?
Facial threadveins and redness usually respond well to laser treatment with our vascular laser. We have the option of a pulse dye laser or long-pulsed NdYAG laser depending on your individual needs.
You may need several treatment sessions to get the best results.
What happens after treatment?
Treatment with the pulsed dye laser leaves purple bruising after treatment for about a week. After treatment with the long-pulsed NdYAG laser the skin may also be a little sore, red, and some people get some crusting on the treated area for a few days.
You will need to look after your skin carefully for two to three weeks after each appointment. You may also need to wear a high factor sunblock on the treated area for the whole course of treatment. You will be given written information about how to look after your skin.
Funding for laser treatment
Laser treatment for facial threadveins is not routinely funded on the NHS. The Exceptional Funding Panel in your area may consider funding for patients with unusually severe conditions or exceptional circumstances. If you think you may be eligible, discuss this with your GP.
If you cannot get NHS funding you can self-fund your consultation and treatment at Bristol Laser Centre. We offer a sensitive, personal, honest approach.
An initial consultation with a specialist doctor is always required. This costs £120. During the initial consultation we will discuss your specific needs.
Facial threadvein laser treatments start from £145 per session.
How do I book in?
If you have any questions or would like to arrange a consultation, please phone us on 0117 414 1212.
Or fill in our online form: Contact Bristol Laser Centre
© North Bristol NHS Trust. This edition published March 2025. Review due March 2028. NBT002017
Contact Bristol Laser Centre
If you are already attending the Laser Centre, please phone 0117 414 1212.
If you are a new patient, would like to get on our waiting list, or have any queries please use our Contact form or phone us on 0117 414 1212.