Removing Unsightly Veins
Author: Yodle
Benefits and Risks of Removing Veins
Blue lines along the legs are more common than we think. With 15 percent of men and 25 percent of women suffering from varicose veins, it's no wonder many want they removed. The prominent blue veins make individuals feel less than perfect and more insecure about their looks.
Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic concern though. Along with the protruding veins come aches and pains in the legs. Pressure buildups in the legs and within time if not treated, they can cause other problems within the circulatory system.
More often than not there are several risk factors which will put an individual in a higher percentage for varicose veins. If you have a job which requires you stand on your legs for a long time such as a waitress, you may be at a higher risk. If you are overweight or obese, this can put extra pressure on your legs leaving you susceptible for varicose veins. Women are at a greater risk to develop varicose veins as well as older adults and those who have family members with varicose veins.
So what can be done to reverse the process of varicose veins? While tight stockings and alterations of lifestyle may help to an extent, this will not remove the veins. A Dermatologist, however, can remove the varicose veins allowing for a reversal process.
What is Vein Removal?
Before beginning the process of vein removal, your physician will have to examine you to ensure you are a good candidate for this procedure. Some assessments may include an ultrasound of the legs to ensure there are no blood clots and evaluation to see if any ulcers have developed near the ankles.
Two types of removal methods of veins offered by dermatologists include sclerotherapy or laser therapy. Sometimes, depending on the client, the dermatologist will remove the veins with both the sclerotherapy and laser therapy.
Sclerotherapy involves small needles and injections of solution which will help make the veins fade away. While needles are used, this is a non-surgical procedure for the removal of veins. Clients may feel a slight stinging or pinching, but anesthesia is not needed and discomfort is negligible. This method takes approximately a half an hour and depending on the severity of the veins clients will have need to repeat the process several times. For milder cases, patients will see the dermatologist one to two times. For more several cases, the client will continue treatments on a monthly basis until all veins are faded.
Laser removal involves a laser or beam of light which throbs against the vein to help it fade away. This method is used alone for smaller veins or in addition to sclerotherapy. The lasers heat the veins which allow the veins to disband. The heat causes the blood to clot and allows for the disappearance of veins.
Best Candidates for Vein Removal?
Laser therapy is best for individuals with minor veins, or what is known as spider veins. It is preferred that the client is in good physical health and does not smoke. It is also recommended that the best candidate be in good psychological health. Individuals who have the tendency to get keloid scars are not the best candidates. Keloid scars are scars which happen after surgery and grow beyond the surgery point.
Sclerotherapy is also for candidates in the best possible health. Candidates who should not go for sclerotherapy include:
Clients with blood-borne disease
Clients with infectious disease
Clients with cardiac disease
Clients with high blood pressure
Clients with diabetes
Clients who are pregnant
Clients who are nursing
Candidates should consult with their physician to come up with a plan for vein removal.
Benefits of Vein Removal
Laser vein removal is the only removal procedure which does not include downtime. Most people continue their daily activities immediately and the only setback is not exercising for a few days.
The biggest benefit for both laser vein removal and sclerotherapy is the actual removal of the veins. With the removal of the veins comes a higher level of self esteem, decreased pain in the area, and an overall better feeling of oneself.
After the Vein Removal
After laser therapy, clients may have redness, bruising, and pain in the area. The client should massage the area, avoid the sun, and even keep the area raised.
After sclerotherapy, the veins will appear much worse before they can appear to be gone or better looking. Bruising occurs and will diminish within a month's time. Leg cramping may occur the first few days as well as swelling and pain. Exercising should be avoided for the first month. Itching may also occur but can decrease with cortisone medications and creams.
The biggest risks which may occur include:
Brown-red discoloration for a year
Telangiectatic matting, which are additional veins which occur
Blood clots
Scarring
Allergic reaction
If a client follows the correct aftercare procedures of the dermatologist and follows up with the dermatologist and a physician, complication risk will be low.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.
