Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a result of faulty, weakened veins. Blood veins are supposed to bring blood to the heart, but when the valve of the vein fails, the blood doesn’t travel like it is supposed to, causing pooling of the blood. When the blood pools, pressure builds in the vein, causing it to become enlarged, twisted and weak. Varicose veins are a common occurrence and can be caused by obesity, pregnancy, prolonged standing, prolonged setting, among other reasons.

Varicose veins can be unsightly and can be painful, but they can be treated. Laser treatments have become a very popular treatment to varicose veins. Laser treatments can be used in place of or in conjunction with traditional varicose vein treatments such as sclerotherapy.

There are several types of laser treatments being used to treat varicose veins in hospitals and doctor’s offices. The long-pulse alexandrite, long-pulse ND, diode and Yag lasers are all common laser types. Lasers can be used alone or with pulsed lighting. All laser type treatments work basically the same way. A light beam pulses into the affected vein and seals it off. Sealing the vein causes it to disburse and eventually dissolve on its own.

Of course all patients are different so each individual must be evaluated to determine the best type of treatment for their situation. There is not typically any pre-treatment instructions and the treatment can be done as an outpatient procedure in approximately 20 minutes. It is important to note however, that more than one (and up to several) treatment is normally needed for best results.

If you think that you may be a candidate for laser therapy, make an appointment with a physician or health care provider for a thorough check up and a discussion about the right therapy type for your specific condition.