Spider veins, those blue and red networks of vessels that often appear on the legs or face, do not usually indicate a serious medical concern. However, they can pose a significant cosmetic issue, particularly if they are in a visible location and become larger over time. Fortunately, there are effective methods to diminish the appearance of those spider veins without significant disruption to your daily life. At LaserMD, LLC, we are committed to helping you look your best through every season without invasive surgery. With cutting-edge technology and innovative treatments, we can help you address a wide range of cosmetic concerns to enhance, refresh, and rejuvenate your appearance.
Dr. Upton and her team at LaserMD, LLC, feature laser therapy to treat spider veins without involving any incisions or injections. According to Dr. Kathy Upton, “Laser spider vein treatment offers my patients the opportunity to treat unwanted smaller vessels. The laser light passes through the skin and is targeted on the smaller vessel, creating heat energy that damages the vein. This damaged vessel is then worked on by the body and gradually breaks up and dissolves.”
Spider veins are prevalent in both men and women of all ages but occur more frequently as we age. The visible lines may be due to any number of factors, including:
While you can find ways to reduce your likelihood of developing spider veins, such as exercising and putting your legs up to rest them, there is no way to prevent them entirely. Considering that an estimated 30 to 60 percent of adults may have at least a few of these visible vessels, it appears it may be challenging to avoid this condition entirely.
Fortunately, spider veins are rarely a serious medical problem. If you experience symptoms with your spider veins, such as heaviness or aching in the legs in the evening, it could be a sign of an underlying venous disorder known as chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. If symptoms are present, it is a good idea to have your condition assessed by a vein specialist to ensure you receive proper treatment for your disorder. Dr. Kathy Upton may refer you to a specialist if your veins are too large for treatment or if she sees evidence of a worrisome vascular condition.
Spider veins can be eliminated through innovative treatments today that do not involve discomfort or downtime. At LaserMD, LLC, we use laser therapy to target the vessel and remove it without damaging the surrounding skin or tissue. The procedure is quick, relatively comfortable, and you can return to your regular activities as soon as your treatment has ended. We recommend that you avoid extensive exercise for 24 hours following treatment.
To prepare for your laser vein treatment, we recommend that you avoid taking aspirin, vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, or any other blood-thinning substances two weeks before your procedure. This step will significantly reduce the risk for complications and aid the healing process. Laser treatments are performed right in our office at LaserMD, LLC, and most appointments take just 15 to 30 minutes to complete. A handheld applicator is applied to the surface of the skin, which delivers the laser energy directly into the affected vessel. The laser heats and coagulates the vein, causing it to seal closed. The treated vessel is broken down and eliminated by the natural processes of the body over time.
In many cases, significant improvement is realized in as few as one to three treatments. In some cases, new spider veins may appear, necessitating additional procedures to produce the desired outcome. Treatment sessions can be scheduled at eight-week intervals.
There is no recovery period needed after laser vein treatment – you can head back to your daily routine immediately following your appointment. Although you are able to resume normal activities almost immediately, you will be advised to refrain from vigorous exercise and avoid hot tubs for at least 24 hours after your treatment to give your treated vein ample time to heal. You will also be advised to avoid direct sun exposure after your procedure. If you do go outdoors, protect the treated area with a minimum SPF 50 sunblock.
Results of laser vein treatment are considered long lasting since the visible vein is eliminated. However, new spider veins may appear over time, which may require additional treatment to maintain your pleasing appearance. We will give you recommendations to help you lower your risk for new spider veins if you like, to reduce the possibility you might need subsequent procedures.
Laser vein treatment is a quick and effective way to get rid of unsightly spider veins that affect your appearance and your self-confidence. To see whether laser spider vein therapy is right for you, call LaserMD, LLC, today at 425-672-1064 for a complimentary consultation.
