Laser Treatment for Thread Veins
Thread veins can be treated with a variety of different methods including injections, surgical removal or laser treatments. The laser treatment used to diminish unsightly thread veins is known as laser ablation. This method of treatment is a popular choice because the procedure is minimally invasive and allows the patient to return to work as early as the next day. Those suffering from thread veins should speak to a qualified plastic surgeon to find out if laser treatment is a viable option for them. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Facts
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Laser Ablation involves inserting a thin wire or laser fiber into the thread vein. A laser is attached to the end of this wire. As the wire is slowly removed, the laser heats up the vein causing damage to the vein wall. A compress is then applied to the treated area in order to collapse the vein. Over the next few weeks, the vein will die resulting in smooth, unblemished skin.
Identification
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Thread veins are also known as spider veins. These are smaller versions of varicose veins which often appear on the legs and occasionally the back of the hand. These veins are purple or blue in color and they may appear to be raised or swollen. Thread veins rarely cause discomfort or health problems but they are considered unsightly and many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.
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Features
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Laser Ablation can cause mild discomfort which is described as the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin. This treatment does not usually require sedatives or anesthetic. Stubborn veins may require up to five sessions to achieve the desired results and sessions can be repeated as often as once a month.
Time Frame
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One session of laser treatment for thread veins lasts 10 to 20 minutes although the doctor may require patients to remain in the office longer for observation purposes. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the recovery period after laser treatment usually lasts about two weeks. During this time, patients may be required to wear compression garments in order to prevent swelling.
Considerations
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There are some possible side effects of laser ablation. These include redness and swelling of the treated area which should improve within a few days after treatment. Skin may also be discolored but should fade back to normal within a month or two of treatment. Patients should take care to protect the skin from sun exposure to avoid dark spots. Bruising may also occur during treatment. On rare occasion, the patient may suffer from burns and scars although these are usually caused by poorly performed laser ablation surgery.
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