| Let's talk about using a laser for varicose veins. Lasers have been used for many years to help get rid of spider veins but were not used to treat varicose veins of the leg for fear of rupturing the vein and causing bleeding. Treatment for spider veins is a non-invasive technique and considered cosmetic in nature therefore, not covered by insurance.
Recent developments in laser technology have expanded to laser for varicose veins treatment. The procedure is called endovenous laser ablation. Endovenous laser ablation is a minimally invasive technique used to treat superficial, larger, more tortuous, varicose veins. You can get it done right in the doctor's office with only a topical anesthetic and go home the same day with just a band-aid to cover the small incision made to insert the laser into the vein.
The laser is inserted through the skin directly into the affected vein and the heat produced by the laser heats the vein and makes it collapse. The laser is removed and eventually the vein shrinks up and disappears. It will not even be visible to an ultrasound a year down the road.
The benefits of having this type of procedure done include not only the procedure being quick and easy but you will reduce the chances of having ulcers caused by the protruding vein and get relief from the achiness, swelling and heaviness feeling in the leg. blood circulation will improve to the leg and you will just feel better and have more confidence about how you look.
Endovenous laser ablation leaves very little scarring and any pain experienced can be controlled with over the counter pain medication like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. You will need to wear compression stockings for up to two weeks following the surgery.
Even though endovenous laser ablation is considered very safe and 98% effective in removing the varicose veins, it does have a recurrence rate of 7% after two years and though complications are very rare some things that can happen after the procedure are, numbness at the site, DVT, or deep vein thrombosis, (a blood clot in the leg), which can be prevented by following doctor's orders and wearing the compression stockings for the length of time he specifies after the procedure.
Infection can be prevented by using an antibiotic ointment on the area where the small incision was made. Bruising is normal and will resolve on it's own in a week to ten days.
If this seems like the right procedure for you, do yourself a favor and research doctors who specialize in the field in your area and pick the one you like the best. Make a list of questions and be sure to take it with you when you go for your first appointment.
Ask to see before and after pictures of previous patients. If the doctor is on the up and up he will gladly show off his work. Tell him you are interested in laser for varicose veins treatment and ask him to explain, in detail, the procedures he has available and then choose the one that is best for you and your condition.
This article is for information purposes only and is not professional medical advice. Nor should it be used as medical advice at any time. You should consult with your own Physician or other proper medical professionals prior to determining treatment or diagnosis. |