Unlike other methods of treatment, the laser greatly reduces the potential for scarring or changes in the skin texture. You will, however, experience some temporary discoloration of the skin around the treatment site. This blue-grey discoloration is called purpura and usually resolves in 5-7 days.


When treating leg veins, however, the purpura may last from 7-14 days. Also, depending on your skin type, and the site and size of the lesion treated, some patients may experience a temporary brown discoloration of the skin for a few weeks following treatment. It is always transient, however. These side effects can often be minimized with proper preoperative and postoperative care. The laser can be used with much less purpura but additional treatments might be necessary.