Does Laser and Light Therapy Really Treat Problem Veins?

Varicose veins and spider veins may be a troubling condition for individuals in the Johnson City, TN community as well as in other parts of the country. Both conditions may be considered unsightly, which may lead some patients to feel self-conscious of their legs. Moreover, varicose veins may lead to pain and heaviness in the legs, which then leads many patients seeking relief through treatments and procedures available at vein clinics in their area. One example of treatments that have helped patients find relief from spider veins and small varicose veins is laser and pulsed light treatments.

These treatments may be used as an alternative to sclerotherapy procedures, or may be used in addition to these treatments as a compliment to them. These procedures work by pulsing a light beam onto the vein so that it seals off, which leads to it dissolving. Adequate heating of the vein is required to be effective against these venous conditions and several sessions are typically required to reach desired results. Each patient's condition may differ and may require a different treatment plan, so discussing the matter with a trained, experienced vein specialist in the Johnson City area is recommended.

There may be various laser types or light sources used to provide treatment. These may include long-pulse alexandrite, diode and long-pulse Nd; Yag lasers and intense pulsed light devices. Patients are encouraged to consult a trained medical professional in the Johnson City community to discuss these different types of lasers and light sources and to help determine which is right for them. In most cases, the light devices will be used with a cool gel, chilled air or other cooling methods to keep the top layer of skin cool throughout the procedure. This helps reduce discomfort experienced during the procedure and helps to lower the risk of injury to the skin during treatment.

A hand held device is typically used to deliver the laser energy to the vein being targeted through brief pulses. The lining of the blood vessel absorbs the energy as does the blood within the vein with the heat generated leading to clotting of the blood. A precise amount of energy is applied to each blood vessel through the advanced technology available in the industry.

It is essential that the patient meet with a vein specialist to discuss their candidacy for laser and light treatments for spider veins or small varicose veins. Patients will be evaluated before receiving treatment to determine if they are a candidate. Spider veins generally do not cause pain and may be treated using laser and light treatment options. The vein specialist will examine the patient to determine if they are suffering from larger varicose veins. If this is the case, the patient may be encouraged to seek other treatment options.

As laser and light therapies may be used to treat spider veins, which are considered a cosmetic concern, insurance generally does not cover the cost of treatment. Patients should consult a vein specialist as well as their insurance company to determine if the procedure will be covered, however. Two to six treatments may be required to reach optimal results depending on the size of the treatment area, although this may vary depending on various factors.

Learn more about laser and light therapy in Johnson City, Tennessee.