Procedures
Vein Treatments
Unsightly leg veins can be a problem for millions of men and women, the world over. This problem affects a wide range of age groups, skin types and lifestyles. It is estimated that in many areas over 60% of the adult population suffers from varicose veins and spider veins. The cause is largely genetic, although other culprits include pregnancy, childbirth, use of birth-control pills, estrogen-replacement therapy, previous injury, and use of corticosteroids.
What are the differences in the types of Veins?
- Varicose veins are enlarged vessels that have widened as a result of weakness in the vein wall, which stretches and bulges.
- Spider veins are the small superficial purple or red veins stretching like a web under the skin.
What is Vein Treatment?
Laser treatment and/or IPL treatment is used to produce an intense but gentle burst of light that selectively destroys the blood vessels of your veins without damaging the surrounding tissue.
What are the advantages of having Vein Treatment?
It can eliminate undesired blood vessels from all parts of the body.
Who is a good candidate for Vein Treatment?
If you have:
- Varicose leg veins
- Fine facial veins
- Spider veins
We will determine at the time of your consultation appointment if you are a candidate for Vein Treatment. During your consultation, we will review of your medical history and will ascertain the cause and severity of your condition. Depending on the types of veins, a combination of different treatment modalities may be suggested.
What does a Vein Treatment involve?
During your treatment, light energy is delivered through a special handpiece with filters to the targeted vein. The resulting heat coagulates or clots the blood and destroys the function of the vein. This process does not affect any of the surrounding tissue. Over time, the vein will be absorbed by the body and will disappear from sight.
How long does a Vein Treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the number and size of the vessels you wish to have treated.
How many Vein Treatments are required?
- For facial veins, one treatment may be sufficient for clearance but a second visit is recommended for the best results. These treatments occur on an average of every six to twelve weeks.
- Leg veins may need multiple treatments, often over a few months before the effect is complete.
Significant improvement is realized in most cases in as few as 1 to 3 treatments. The potential for maximum long-term resolution increases after an additional one or two treatments. In some cases new spider veins may appear therefore, additional treatments may be necessary. These treatments may occur at 3 to 4 week intervals.
How long does it take to recover from a Vein Treatment?
You may be asked to wear special support hose to help keep pressure on the veins. This will help keep the veins closed. Bruising takes anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks to resolve. A tan or brownish pigment "skin staining" may be present when larger veins are involved and can take 6 to 12 months to fade. Patients are generally encouraged to resume most normal activities immediately. We do ask that you refrain from vigorous activities and hot tubs for the first 24 hours.
When can I expect to see results from my Vein Treatment?
While each vein may require several pulses, most disappear in 2 to 6 weeks, although your final results may not be apparent for several months. Keys to success with light leg vein therapy include the short-term use of compression stockings, and the avoidance of hot baths and strenuous exercise.
When can I go back to work/resume my normal activities after having Vein Treatment?
Patients are generally encouraged to return to work and resume most normal activities immediately. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. We do ask that you refrain from vigorous activities and hot tubs for the first 24 hours. Also, avoid direct sun exposure after a treatment.
How long will the results from having Vein Treatment last?
The results are usually long lasting - one to two years. To maintain the best result, it is important that you avoid standing for long periods of time.
What are my alternatives to having Vein Treatment?
An alternative to laser and/or IPL Vein Treatment would be Sclerotherapy.
During Sclerotherapy a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needles generally cause very little pain. The sclerosing solution causes the vein to blanch (turn white), then gradually disappear. A typical treatment may last for 15 to 20 minutes and consist of multiple injections.
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