What Types of Veins Can Be Treated With Laser?
When we talk about laser treatments for veins, it usually refers to varicose veins and spider veins. While these visible veins may be similar and occur together, they are two different things.
Varicose veins are veins that have a thick, bulging appearance. These blue veins no longer possess the ability to circulate blood, so blood gathers in them, causing the vein to “pop out” and be more obvious than you’d like. They can also contribute to leg tiredness, a “heavy” feeling in the legs, burning, itching, and general discomfort.
Spider veins are the thin, weblike patterns of blue, red, or purple veins that appear primarily on the legs but can also affect the face. Unlike varicose veins, they don’t usually cause any pain or swelling, but they can be a nuisance, and some individuals may feel that they make their legs look older. The cause of spider veins isn’t fully known, but factors like obesity, hormonal changes, and leg injuries can contribute.
What Are Laser Treatments for Veins?
Laser vein treatment involves your doctor using a laser to seal off the problem veins. Depending on the severity and size of your varicose or spider veins, your doctor may use a non-invasive or minimally invasive procedure. A non-invasive procedure uses a tool that targets veins from the outside, while a minimally invasive approach reduces veins by using a laser catheter to gain more direct access.
For the most part, laser treatments effectively diminish varicose veins and spider veins. These treatments usually do not take very long, and they generally have a short recovery time. The treatment can be used on its own, or utilized in conjunction with another therapy, most often sclerotherapy.
Do You Have Questions?
If you want to know more about treating unwanted visible veins with laser therapy, schedule an appointment today. You can learn more and even set up a laser treatment plan for your personal situation. Renaissance Plastic Surgery serves St. Peters and nearby areas of Missouri.