Dealing with varicose veins can be a real pain, both physically and emotionally. But thanks to modern medical technology, there’s a promising solution available which is laser therapy. This minimally invasive treatment, known as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) or Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), is bringing new hope to those who suffer from varicose veins. It’s been cleared by the FDA specifically for treating varicose veins and has an impressive success rate of 98%.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins happen when veins get bigger. They usually show up on legs as bluish-purple, raised, lumpy lines, like clusters of grapes. Unlike spider veins, which are mainly a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can hurt and lead to more serious health problems. Symptoms include burning, throbbing, aching, cramping, itching, and tenderness.
If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to serious issues such as blood clots, bleeding, and skin damage. Since they won’t disappear on their own, it’s crucial to explore varicose vein treatment options, especially if you experience pain after prolonged sitting or standing.
What Causes Varicose Veins to Develop?
Varicose veins are often caused by malfunctioning blood valves, which can lead to blockages or leaks. When these valves don’t work properly, blood doesn’t flow smoothly through the veins, causing it to pool or flow in the wrong direction.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins. Genetics play a significant role, meaning you’re more likely to have them if others in your family do. Women are also more prone to varicose veins compared to men.
Other factors that can increase your risk include pregnancy, aging, being overweight, hormonal changes, a history of blood clots or vein damage, and prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Sun damage can also contribute.
Regardless of the cause, many treatment options are available, like Venaseal vein treatment, to help manage and remove varicose veins.
How Does Laser Treatment Work for Varicose Veins?
When you undergo laser treatment for varicose veins, the doctor uses ultrasound to guide a catheter with a laser fiber and tip into the vein. The laser emits heat, which destroys the vein wall and seals it shut. This helps reroute blood through healthy veins, getting rid of painful and unsightly bulges. Over time, the closed vein is absorbed by the body.
Types of Varicose Vein Laser Treatments
When considering the cost of varicose vein laser treatment, it’s important to understand the different procedures available at a doctor’s office:
Laser Ablation
This method uses a handheld device to direct laser energy onto the skin’s surface. The heat causes the vein to collapse and fade over time. It’s effective for smaller veins and is a simple outpatient procedure.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
EVLT treats larger veins beneath the skin’s surface. A thin fiber is inserted into the vein through a small incision, delivering heat to seal the vein wall. It’s less painful than traditional vein stripping and requires a shorter recovery time.
Glue (Venaseal)
Venaseal vein treatment involves injecting medical-grade glue into the vein to block blood flow. It doesn’t require anesthesia or compression stockings, offering a minimally invasive alternative.
How the Procedure Works
Before Varicose Vein Treatment
Before getting varicose vein treatment, the doctor will explain the whole process, including the benefits, possible downsides, the type of anesthesia, expected results, and potential complications. It’s important for patients to ask questions and share any concerns to fully understand the treatment.
Patients usually need to fill out a form listing their current medications, especially blood thinners, medical conditions, allergies, and other relevant info. Since imaging tests like ultrasound are often used before treatment, patients should let the doctor know about any allergies to contrast dye used in imaging
During the Procedure
The process to treat varicose or spider veins begins with the doctor applying local anesthesia to the area where the catheter will be inserted. The doctor may also inject numbing medication along the entire affected vein. While these injections may cause slight discomfort at first, the numbing medicine quickly relieves any pain.
After preparing, the doctor makes a small cut in the skin where the catheter will be inserted. The catheter is carefully guided into the affected varicose vein. A laser fiber is then passed through the catheter, delivering heat that closes the vein along its entire length. After removing the catheter, the vein gradually shrinks as the laser fiber works within it.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, you’ll need to wear compression stockings or bandages on your legs for a few days or weeks to help with healing and reduce swelling. Try not to get your legs wet while wearing the stockings. It’s important to keep moving around to help with blood flow but avoid swimming. You can go back to your normal activities right after the procedure, except for swimming.
You’ll have a follow-up appointment to check how you’re doing and make sure everything is okay. They might do another ultrasound to see how the treated vein looks and confirm that the treatment worked.
Benefits of Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins
There are several advantages of choosing laser treatment for varicose veins over other methods:
- Requires no anesthesia, minimal risk of side effects, and allows immediate return to normal activities.
- No downtime; patients can resume daily routines right after treatment, with less pain compared to traditional methods.
- Targets specific veins while preserving surrounding tissue, thanks to focused laser technology.
- Suitable for all skin tones without risk of scarring or pigmentation changes.
- Efficiently closes varicose veins with a high success rate and permanent results.
- Typically takes less than an hour, making it convenient for busy schedules.
- Provides lasting relief from varicose veins, addressing both symptoms and appearance effectively.
Conclusion
The Vein Clinic Chicago is a skilled team offers advanced laser treatments. Whether you’re concerned about costs or prefer non-invasive options, we’re here to help. Our laser treatments provide effective results without the need for painful incisions. You can trust our compassionate vein doctors to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout your treatment journey. Contact us today to explore insurance-covered options for your vein care needs.
