Unsightly or symptomatic veins on the legs occur in 20–41% of women and 6–15% of men in the United States. The utilization of lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) sources for the treatment of lower extremity veins has gained increased popularity over the past five years.
Sadick dermatology has authored many clinical papers about this topic and offers expertise with a wide variety of medical lasers.
Indications for Leg Vein Laser Treatment
Laser and light based treatments have been shown to be effective in treating vessels that are not manageable with sclerotherapy or vessels that arise from prior surgical or sclerotherapy treatment, and needle-phobic patients.
With the latest technology, darker skin types can be treated with minimal risk to the epidermis and minimal risk for potential for irregularities in epidermal contour and pigmentation.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your dermatologist will recommend the proper treatment modality for your leg veins. In some cases, the laser may be used in conjunction with treatments such as ambulatory phlebectomy or sclerotherapy. Before treatment, the settings of the laser are adjusted to safely deliver energy to the veins. Most treatments need no sedation, but tumescent anesthesia may be utilized. By heating the vessel wall, the vein will collapse, close and eventually disappear.
After Laser Leg Vein Treatment
After laser leg vein treatment, you should be able to return to your normal routine immediately. You may experience some minor bruising, redness and swelling, which typically subsides within a week. The doctor may advise you to wear special compression stockings to achieve optimal results. During the weeks that follow treatment, the unwanted vein(s) will disappear.
Although endovascular laser treatment is extremely safe, there are possible side effects. They include abnormal skin sensations, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, transient edema, pain/cramping, bruising, telangiectatic matting, and skin burns.
