Veins - Legs
Varicose veins are enlarged veins that can be flesh colored, dark purple or blue. They often look like cords and appear twisted and bulging. They are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are commonly found on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg.
Spider veins are similar to varicose veins, but they are smaller. They are often red or blue and are closer to the surface of the skin than varicose veins. They can look like tree branches or spider webs with their short jagged lines. Spider veins can be found on the legs and face. They can cover either a very small or very large area of skin.
Treatments
- IPL Photorejuvenation
- Clear Scan Laser
How do the treatments work?
Today's new light and laser technologies deliver precise dosages of energy to each vein, with minimal risk to the skin. During treatments, light energy is delivered through a special handpiece to the targeted vein. The energy is then absorbed by the blood vessels. The heat/energy absorption causes a thermocoagulation (heating and occlusion) of the blood vessel. The occluded vessel is then slowly absorbed. Learn more about Dermal Fillers for spider veins on the FACE (Facial Aesthetics Care & Education) Institute website.
What causes varicose veins and spider veins?
Today's new light and laser technologies deliver precise dosages of energy to each vein with a minimal risk to the skin. During treatments, light energy is delivered through a special handpiece to the targeted vein. The energy is then absorbed by the blood vessels. The heat/energy absorption causes a thermocoagulation (heating and occlusion) of the blood vessel. The occluded vessel is then slowly absorbed.
How common are abnormal leg veins?
About 50 to 55 per cent of women and 40 to 45 per cent of men suffer from some form of vein problem. Varicose veins affect 1 out of 2 people age 50 and older.
Who usually has varicose veins and spider veins?
Many factors increase a person's chances of developing varicose or spider veins. These include:
- Increasing age - Having family members with vein problems or being born with weak vein valves.
- Hormonal changes - These occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Taking birth control pills and other medicines containing estrogen and progesterone also increase the risk of varicose or spider veins.
- Pregnancy - During pregnancy there is a huge increase in the amount of blood in the body. This can cause veins to enlarge. The expanding uterus also puts pressure on the veins. Varicose veins usually improve within three months after delivery. A growing number of abnormal veins usually appear with each additional pregnancy.
- Obesity, leg injury, prolonged standing and other factors also weaken vein valves.
Why do varicose veins and spider veins appear in the legs?
The force of gravity, the pressure of body weight, and the task of carrying blood from the bottom of the body up to the heart make legs the primary location for varicose and spider veins. Compared with other veins in the body, leg veins have the toughest job of carrying blood back to the heart. They endure the most pressure. This pressure can be stronger than the veins' one-way valves.
How can I prevent varicose veins and spider veins?
Not all varicose and spider veins can be prevented, but some things can reduce your chances of getting new ones. These same things can help ease discomfort from the ones you already have:
- Wear Sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and to limit spider veins on the face.
- Exercise regularly to improve your leg strength, circulation, and vein strength. Focus on exercises that work your legs, such as walking or running.
- Control your weight to avoid placing too much pressure on your legs.
- Do not cross your legs when sitting.
- Elevate your legs when resting as much as possible.
- Do not stand or sit for long periods of time. If you must stand for a long time, shift your weight from one leg to the other every few minutes. If you must sit for long periods of time, stand up and move around or take a short walk every 30 minutes.
- Wear support stockings and avoid tight clothing that constricts your waist, groin, or legs.
- Eat a low-salt diet rich in high-fiber foods. Eating fiber reduces the chances of constipation which can contribute to varicose veins. High fiber foods include fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, like bran. Eating too much salt can cause you to retain water or swell.
Can varicose and spider veins return even after treatment?
Current treatments for varicose veins and spider veins have high success rates compared to traditional surgical treatments. Over a period of years, however, more abnormal veins can develop. The major reason for this is that there is no cure for weak vein valves. With time, pressure gradually builds up in the leg veins. Ongoing treatment can help keep this problem under control.
The single most important thing a person can do to slow down the development of new varicose veins is to wear compression support stockings as much as possible during the day.
How many treatments will I need?
Typically, multiple treatments are necessary to achieve optimal results. Tiny pink and red vessels usually require two to three treatments to achieve acceptable results. Veins that are darker or purplish are usually more difficult to remove and require more treatments. Treatments are spaced at two to six week intervals.
How long do treatments take?
Our treatment times are approximately 15 minutes, depending on the number of vessels treated and their location.
Are these treatments safe?
Yes. Lasers and intense pulsed light have been used safely for millions of treatments worldwide. These systems treat only the targeted vessels, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. However, some bruising or redness may occur.
What will my recovery be like?
Discomfort after the treatment is minimal. Your postoperative appearance will vary depending on what type of treatment we select for your condition.
After treatment there is a chance of some swelling, redness and on rare occasions, some minor bruising or blistering may occur. Some bruising may appear around the treated areas. This can be covered with make-up if desired and will fade away in about two weeks.
To find out more about our leg vein treatments or other cosmetic procedures, please call our office to arrange a private consultation.