What is Laser Vein Treatment and How Does It Work?
Laser vein treatment is effective in the elimination of spider veins (tiny veins just beneath the skin). Spider veins can develop on any part of the body, including the face, thighs, calves, and ankles. Spider veins are related to abnormal blood flow in the affected veins. Any condition or activity that puts pressure on leg veins (e.g., gaining weight and sitting or standing for long periods of time), can contribute to their development.
Brief, intense emissions of light from the laser will be used to remove the superficial blood vessels at precisely controlled levels of penetration.
How Long Does Laser Vein Treatment Take?
Laser Vein Treatment can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the area being treated, and the severity of the spider veins. Oftentimes, two or more treatments may be required to achieve the desired results.
How is Laser Vein Treatment Performed Exactly?
The laser in combination with a cooling tip is applied to the skin over the vessel. Laser light penetrates the skin and is absorbed in the lining of the vessel wall raising the temperature and sealing the vessel shut. Light pulses are administered until the vessel fades or changes color. The vessel either disappears instantly or slowly fades over several days or weeks. Patients usually experience mild warmth or a sensation of a rubber band snapping for only a fraction of a second when the laser is pulsed, then usually feel as if nothing has occurred.
Are There Any Side Effects?
You may feel a slight burning or stinging sensation as the laser penetrates your skin. Pain is very minimal and no anesthesia is required. Semi-permanent or permanent skin lightening may occur in the treated areas. The skin may also become hyperpigmented (darker) immediately following the treatment. It is possible to experience some redness and swelling of the treated area, which should disappear within a few days. Generally, the veins will turn a purple color that resembles a small bruise, and then gradually fade within 5-10 days. Ice packs are usually recommended to reduce the swelling. Cold aloe vera spray is also highly recommended.
Is Laser Vein Treatment Right For Me?
You are an excellent candidate for laser vein treatment if you are physically healthy, have superficial spider veins that will respond to laser treatment, have fair skin or the appropriate skin tone for the type of laser used, are not taking Accutane, nor have taken it for the previous 18 months, do not have unusual scar formations, such as keloids, and hold realistic expectations about the outcome. Although laser removal of spider veins may not erase all imperfections in the skin, most patients are satisfied with the results. After treatment, the unsightly red veins are significantly diminished and the skin is returned to a more natural state. It is important to remember, however, that laser removal does not deter the normal effects of aging and that treatment does not prevent the occurrence of new spider veins.
When Will I See the Effects of Laser Vein Treatment?
Some improvement can be seen immediately. Although you may have some redness and swelling initially, you should notice that the veins have significantly diminished. After 5 to 10 days, you should see a significant improvement.
Is the Effect of Laser Vein Treatment Permanent?
Several treatments may be necessary for best results depending on the severity of your spider vein problem. In more severe cases, Sclerotherapy may be recommended. Laser Vein Treatment will not deter new spider veins from forming.
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