Fine red lines around the nose, visible capillaries on the cheeks, or redness that never fully fades can be frustrating. These changes sometimes come from enlarged blood vessels close to the surface, which ordinary skin-care products cannot remove.
At Manhattan Dermatology in New York, NY, our cosmetic dermatology services include vascular laser treatment with Excel V®. Wendy Long Mitchell, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a board-certified dermatologist whose fellowship training included cosmetic laser surgery.
How Do Vascular Laser Treatments Work?
Vascular lasers direct light energy toward blood within unwanted surface vessels. The absorbed energy heats and damages the vessel, allowing its appearance to diminish as the body clears it.
We first examine the redness to determine whether it comes from enlarged vessels, inflammation, or another skin condition. That distinction matters because not every red patch will respond to a laser.
What Is the Excel V Laser?
Excel V uses specific wavelengths of light to treat certain vascular changes at different depths. Settings are adjusted according to the size and location of the vessels and your skin’s characteristics.
It is one of the laser treatments available through our practice.
What Concerns Can Vascular Lasers Treat?
| Concern | What It Looks Like | Treatment Considerations |
| Facial spider veins | Small red or purple lines around the nose, cheeks, or chin | Targeted laser energy may reduce visible vessels |
| Telangiectasia | Fine, widened blood vessels near the surface | Vessel size and location influence laser selection |
| Rosacea-related redness | Persistent flushing, sometimes with visible capillaries | Laser treatment may lessen vascular redness but does not cure rosacea |
| Cherry angiomas | Small, bright red vascular growths | Individual growths may respond to targeted treatment |
| Certain leg veins | Fine superficial vessels on the legs | Larger or symptomatic veins may need a different evaluation |
What Happens During Treatment?
We examine the affected area and review relevant medical information before choosing the settings. During the procedure, you may notice brief warmth or a snapping sensation as the laser delivers pulses to the skin.
The number of visits varies with the extent of redness and how the vessels respond. Smaller areas may need fewer sessions than widespread facial flushing.
Recovery and Long-Term Results
Temporary swelling, redness, or sensitivity can occur afterward. Some settings may produce darker red or purple marks that remain visible while the area heals. Burns, unwanted pigmentation changes, and scarring are possible but less common.
Treated vessels may become less noticeable over time. New ones can still develop, particularly when genetics, sun exposure, or an underlying condition contributes to the redness.
Patients with rosacea may also need prescription treatment or changes to daily skin care to manage flare-ups.
Why Choose Manhattan Dermatology for Vascular Treatments in New York?
Dr. Mitchell completed fellowship training in cosmetic laser surgery and is double board certified in dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery.
Our dermatologists can distinguish a cosmetic vascular concern from skin inflammation that needs medical attention. Before recommending Excel V, we evaluate the type of redness, your complexion, and any conditions that may affect healing or results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discuss Vascular Laser Treatment With Our Dermatologists
Redness can have several causes, and identifying yours is the first step toward choosing treatment. Contact us to discuss Excel V with our team at Manhattan Dermatology in New York, NY. Our East 36th Street office is at 212-683-6073, and Park Avenue can be reached at 212-689-9587.