Varicose veins and spider veins aren’t just ugly; they can also be a sign of serious underlying vascular problems that can take a toll on your health. The good news is, there are advanced treatment options that can help eliminate those ugly, uncomfortable veins, so you look better and feel healthier and more confident. The key to achieving optimal results is to select the best treatment for your specific needs and symptoms.
Both laser vein treatment and sclerotherapy are used to treat more superficial veins, including spider veins located just below the skin’s surface, and they can also be used to treat small to medium-sized varicose veins. Both procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and both can achieve very good results. The main difference is the way these techniques work to close off malfunctioning veins so circulation is “automatically” rerouted to neighboring healthy veins.
Laser vein therapy uses focused beams of laser energy to shut down the problematic blood vessels. The laser energy is applied directly to the skin without the need for incisions. However, the heat of the laser can cause some discomfort as the pulses are applied to the skin over the affected vein. Because of the very precise application technique used in laser vein therapy, this approach can be a very good choice for veins that are too small to be injected with sclerotherapy chemicals as well as spider veins that form on the face. Laser treatment can also be an ideal alternative for people who don’t like needles and for those who are allergic to the sclerotherapy solution.
Sclerotherapy uses a chemical agent injected into the veins to irritate the vein lining, causing the vein to close so blood flow is prevented. Many doctors recommend sclerotherapy for patients with darker skin who may not be ideal candidates for laser therapy, as well as for those with a lower tolerance for the discomfort associated with laser treatments. Sclerotherapy is also less costly than laser treatment for varicose veins, and some studies show it may be more effective for superficial veins on the legs and hands.
There’s a lot to consider when deciding which approach is the best one for your needs. But there’s good news: We can help. As a top Cincinnati vein treatment center, Vascular & Interventional Associates Vein Center is dedicated to employing advanced techniques to assess patients’ needs on an individual basis, ensuring the most appropriate technique is used for optimal long-term outcomes. If you’re suffering from varicose veins or spider veins, take the next step toward better vein health. Call Vascular & Interventional Associates Vein Center at 859-286-7333 or use our online system to request an appointment and learn how easy it can be to look and feel your best.
