Spider and varicose veins are a common affliction for both men and women, particularly as they reach the middle years of life. Those visible veins are often a cosmetic nuisance, appearing in areas that make you feel uncomfortable wearing certain types of clothing or participating in some activities. The good news is there are effective methods for eliminating those visible vessels that do not require a significant amount of discomfort or downtime.
Spider or Varicose Veins?
Although spider and varicose veins are often lumped into a single category, there are a few distinct differences between the two. Varicose veins commonly appear on the lower legs, while spider veins can also show up on the thighs, abdomen and even the face. Spider veins tend to be closer to the skin’s surface and appear in a network that resembles a starburst pattern. Varicose veins can actually protrude above the skin’s surface, extending along the lower leg in a rope like pattern.
Injectable Treatment Options
An injectable treatment known as sclerotherapy can be an effective method for eliminating both spider and smaller varicose veins. During this procedure, a special solution is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to seal shut. The vein collapses and is eventually reabsorbed by the body, while blood reroutes to healthy vessels nearby. Sclerotherapy is a relatively quick procedure that involves no downtime. However, some patients may require more than one treatment session to achieve full desired results.
Laser Treatment Options
Laser vein removal is another treatment option for removing superficial veins close to the surface of the skin. This non-invasive procedure delivers laser energy below the skin’s surface without actually penetrating the skin. The laser energy seals off treated veins so they can be reabsorbed by the body. Patients can often see veins disappear during the procedure and results continue to improve in the following weeks. Like sclerotherapy, there is no downtime required after laser vein removal.
Now is the Time!
Fall is the perfect time to pursue the vein treatment you have been thinking about. This time of year, the cooler weather makes it much easier to protect treated areas from the sun. By the time spring break rolls around, treatment areas will be completely healed and your new results will be ready to flaunt to the world.
To learn more about your choices in vein treatment,contact Aesthetic Arts Institute of Plastic Surgery at (619) 464-9876.
