Laser vein removal is a technologically advanced procedure designed to diminish both spider and varicose veins using a highly concentrated beam of light energy. Laser spider vein removal and laser varicose vein removal are popular because they are minimally invasive, virtually pain free, and require no general anesthesia.
Candidates
Appropriate candidates for laser vein removal are those individuals who have spider or varicose veins and the desire to change their appearance. The ideal candidates are non-smoking individuals who are physically healthy and psychologically stable. Since in laser vein removal lasers directly contact the skin, those with a tendency to form keloid scars are not ideal candidates. Skin tone can also be affected by laser vein removal treatment, so it is best to talk to your doctor about the type of laser appropriate for you. For more severe varicose veins, vein removal surgery may be necessary.
Procedures
Laser spider vein removal and laser varicose vein removal allow individuals with unsightly and unwanted veins to have them removed safely, quickly, and effectively. Both laser vein removal procedures are minimally invasive and are performed while the patient is conscious. Because lasers are so precise, there is little to no risk of burns or blisters on the skin.
In laser spider vein removal, light passes through the skin and sends pulses of energy to the targeted vein without harming the surrounding tissue. As the blood absorbs the light, it heats up and causes the targeted vein to shrink, eventually resulting in its disappearance. Laser spider vein removal requires no injections and no incisions. Generally, patients only experience a minimal amount of heat. Treatment time is about 20 minutes but may be longer or shorter depending on the severity of the veins and the size of the affected area. For optimal results, several laser spider vein removal sessions may be necessary.
Laser varicose vein removal (endovenous ablation therapy), on the other hand, is used to treat deeper varicose veins. During the laser varicose vein removal procedure, the doctor uses a small tube to conduct laser energy into targeted blood vessels. First, the area to be treated is anesthetized and a small incision is made for tube insertion. At the end of the tube is a probe that emits laser energy. Once inserted, the energy shrinks vein walls so that blood no longer flows through them. Blood is instead redirected to healthy veins resulting in improved appearance. In addition to the treated blood vessels, connected veins on the surface of the skin typically fade as well.
Recovery
Recovery from laser vein removal varies from person to person, but typically there is no downtime. Patients can resume normal activities almost immediately. There may be some minor bruising which tends to gradually fade within a week or two. Swelling of the treated area can also occur but usually subsides within a few days of treatment. Some doctors recommend the use of compression stockings after laser vein removal. Complications of laser vein removal treatments are rare; however the risk of complications increases if the procedure is performed incorrectly.
Results
With laser spider vein removal and laser varicose vein removal, veins fade significantly or clear completely. Skin looks more uniform and youthful. Although laser vein removal may not correct all the imperfections of the treated area, the overall results are successful; most patients are satisfied with treatment. Laser vein removal does not prevent new veins from forming, however. If new veins appear over time, further treatment may be needed to maintain the results of previous treatment.