Varicose veins are the unsightly, bluish-purple, swollen masses that often accumulate in the lower leg area. Their severity can go from a mild cosmetic annoyance to serious pain and an associated health risk. There are a number of self-treatments you can take on, such as propping your feet up or wearing compression garments. However, when varicose veins become a major problem or begin to affect your daily life, it may be time to look into varicose vein treatment.
It used to be that invasive, uncomfortable surgery was the only option for dealing with such cases. Fortunately, today there are less drastic treatments available. Laser treatment utilizes light energy to target and remove varicose veins.
About Laser Varicose Vein Treatment
The laser energy used during treatment cauterizes the troublesome veins, closing them. Varicose veins are ones in which the valve that returns blood flow to the heart against the force of gravity is weak. Weakened valves allow the blood to pool within the vein. This is what causes symptoms such as inflammation, discoloration, itching, pain and discomfort.
Varicose vein treatment is minimally-invasive and uses an image-guided ultrasound scanner to allow the practitioner to see the area within the vein that needs to be cauterized. Laser energy is applied to the vein through the use of a laser fiber. This energy heats the fiber at the appropriate temperature to cause it to close. Gradually over time, the vein will shrink.
This is an outpatient procedure. There is no need for sutures, and the treatment session usually takes from 30 minutes to one hour. No downtime is required.
Benefits of Using Laser in Varicose Vein Treatment
One of the biggest benefits for patients concerning varicose vein laser therapy is that there is no need for surgery. The procedure is minimally-invasive, with only slight discomfort and not even a requirement of stitches.
This type of treatment is quite safe, and there are few complications involved. In addition, there is no risk of any scarring. You can expect relief from your symptoms practically immediately, with a quick return to daily activities.
If varicose veins are causing you pain and interfering with your life, you may wish to consider laser therapy at the Aesthetic Laser Center. There’s no need to suffer when effective treatment is available and accessible. We have locations in Oakland and Fresno. Contact us today to schedule your consultation to learn more.