Undereye Vein Treatment in Washington, DC
Undereye Vein Treatment Before and After Gallery *
Blue or green veins beneath the eyes are among the most common cosmetic concerns we treat. The skin in this area is thin, so reticular veins that would be invisible elsewhere show through clearly, creating a tired or shadowed appearance that concealer can’t fully cover.
Laser vein treatment closes these vessels without incisions or significant downtime. Most patients see clearance in one to two sessions.
Why Undereye Veins Appear
Periorbital skin is the thinnest on the body—roughly 0.5 mm—with little subcutaneous fat to mask the vessels beneath it. Contributing factors include:
- Genetics and naturally fair or thin skin
- Age-related loss of collagen and fat volume
- Sun exposure, which further thins the dermis
- Prominent reticular veins, typically 1–3 mm in diameter
These veins are not a medical problem. They simply become more visible over time.
How Laser Treatment Works
We use a long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser to target hemoglobin within the vessel. The laser energy heats the blood and vessel wall, causing the vein to collapse and seal, or the blood within it to coagulate, stopping the flow. The body then reabsorbs the treated vessel over the following weeks, and blood is rerouted to deeper veins.
The 1064 nm wavelength penetrates to the depth of these vessels while sparing surrounding skin and pigment, making it appropriate for all skin types. As this involves treatment within the orbital rim, metal intraocular shields (corneal shields) are placed by Dr. Adrian prior to treatment.
What to Expect
Treatment
A single session typically takes 10–15 minutes. You’ll feel brief heat with each pulse, often described as a rubber-band snap. Integrated cooling minimizes discomfort. No anesthetic is required.
Recovery
Mild redness or swelling may last 24–48 hours. Bruising is uncommon but possible. Makeup can be applied the following day, and normal activities resume immediately.
Results
Treated veins often disappear at the time of treatment or fade over 2–6 weeks. Larger or deeper veins may require a second session, typically spaced 6–8 weeks apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use a laser near the eyes?
Yes, when performed by a highly trained and experienced laser dermatologist with appropriate eye protection. Intraocular corneal shields are required.
Will the veins come back?
Successfully treated veins will not return. Over time, additional veins may become apparent as natural undereye volume loss progresses.
Can this be combined with other undereye treatments?
Yes. Vein removal can be combined with treatments for dark circles, hollowing, or fine lines.
Schedule a Consultation
Undereye vein removal begins with an in-person evaluation to confirm vessel type and depth. Please fill out the consultation request form or call 202-966-8814 to schedule a consultation for undereye vein treatment.
