How Does Laser Vein Therapy Work?

Varicose and spider veins affect more than just your appearance. They can also cause discomfort and make daily activities uncomfortable or even painful. laser vein therapy is a procedure that closes veins and restores proper circulation, causing the painful, bulging veins to fade over a few weeks. This treatment offers a safe and effective way to address the appearance of your veins, improving your confidence and overall quality of life.

Understanding varicose and spider veins

Often referred to as the highways of the human body, veins carry blood from the heart to deliver oxygen to other parts of the body. The body's natural movement helps pump blood back to the heart, sending it out again in a continuous cycle. These veins have valves that open and close to ensure blood flows in the right direction.

Varicose veins

A varicose vein occurs when a valve is broken, causing the blood to flow backward and stay in the vein. This causes the vein to expand, stretch, and twist, preventing it from circulating blood properly. Varicose veins often appear blue or dark purple and protrude from the surface of one's skin, typically in the leg or ankle area; this area is where the blood is furthest from the heart.

While some patients are bothered by the appearance of varicose veins, others may experience itching, pain or discomfort, and tiredness in their legs. In extreme cases, individuals may suffer from vein hardening, bleeding, and skin ulcers near their ankles, indicating advanced vascular disease. Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Spider veins

Spider veins, or telangiectasis, are not veins but damaged capillaries, venules, and arterioles, which are small blood vessels that connect with larger vessels as part of the circulatory system. They may appear red, blue, or purple in clusters resembling spider webs or tree branches just under the surface of a patient's skin. Spider veins can develop anywhere but typically occur on one's legs or face. While they are typically harmless, some patients may not like how they look and decide to seek cosmetic treatment to reduce the appearance of spider veins.

How laser vein therapy works

Laser vein therapy, also known as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) or laser ablation, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to target the damaged veins or blood vessels. A licensed medical professional delivers high-intensity light to the affected area. The blood absorbs the light, causing the vessels to heat and collapse. Over time, the treated vein will fade.

Types of laser vein therapy techniques

Laser ablation

For smaller spider or varicose veins, the patient may undergo a simple laser treatment method known as laser ablation. A medical practitioner uses a small hand-held device to direct the laser onto the treatment area. The heat from the laser will cause the vessel to collapse and eventually disappear.

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT)

The EVLT technique is where a medical practitioner inserts a catheter into the varicose vein through a small incision in the treatment area. Using ultrasound as a visual aid, the practitioner guides the catheter into the vein. A laser at the end of the catheter heats the vein's walls, closing it and preventing blood from flowing through it. After the procedure, the patient's circulation should be more efficient as the treated vein shrinks and fades.

What to expect from the treatment process

Laser vein therapy can be performed at a medical spa. The medical practitioner will choose the type of technique used, the wavelength, and the duration depending on the size and type of vein to be treated. The deeper the vein, the longer the wavelength required to treat it properly.

Each case is different, but the process typically takes less than an hour. Most patients do not experience pain during laser vein therapy and can return to their normal activities after their treatment session unless directed by the medical provider. Wearing compression socks can promote optimal blood flow and reduce potential swelling. Smaller spider veins typically fade immediately, while larger veins may take 1-3 months to disappear fully. They may need further treatments depending on the results and their treatment goals.

Side effects of laser vein therapy

Laser vein therapy is a minimally invasive procedure with little risk of complications. However, it is still a medical procedure, and some patients may experience mild side effects. These may include:

• Skin discoloration
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Pain over the vein
• Blood clots
• Itching
• Burns
• Infection
• Nerve damage or vein injury

Severe side effects are rare. If the patient notices signs of infection in the treatment area, the swelling or bruising worsens, or experiences discomfort interrupting their regular activities, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Is laser vein therapy right for you?

Varicose and spider veins can greatly affect confidence and overall quality of life. Laser vein therapy is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment that improves the appearance of varicose and spider veins. If you have questions, call or visit our Celebration medical spa to learn more and see if this treatment is right for you.

Request an appointment here: https://floridacosmeticcenter.com or call Florida Cosmetic Center at (321) 415-9826 for an appointment in our Celebration office.

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