Varicose Vein Procedures Today are Minimally Invasive and Highly Effective
Varicose veins are unsightly, swollen or twisted veins that appear just below the surface of the skin. Believed to be caused by weak vein walls and/or valves, they also commonly form when individuals experience a spike in blood pressure and are often associated with risk factors that include older age, pregnancy and obesity. While these veins typically aren’t harmful, they can cause minor pain or hint at a greater underlying medical issue, such as a circulatory problem. Unlike some vein issues, however, varicose veins don’t go away on their own, meaning corrective treatment is necessary for those who want a remedy for this unsightly condition.
Common Varicose Vein Treatments
There are a variety of means to treat varicose veins today, which range from basic self-care options to minimally invasive procedures. Here’s a closer look at some of them:
- Self-care options: Improving circulation can help treat varicose veins, and this may include a combination of exercise, routinely elevating your legs and wearing compression stockings. However, it’s important to note that while these self-care options can help prevent the likelihood of new varicose veins forming, they won’t eliminate any existing veins.
- Laser ablation: Ideal for treating both small and large varicose veins, this procedure consists of applying laser light to the vein to essentially destroy it. A small incision is made in the skin prior to applying the laser light to ensure the vein can be properly treated. Following treatment, it may take up to one year for the vein to disappear. To completely eliminate larger varicose veins, multiple treatments may be necessary.
- Foam injections: In addition to laser ablation, injecting the varicose vein with a specialty foam solution is another effective way to eliminate it. Similar to laser procedures, the foam injection also works so that veins collapse and seal, thereby eliminating them.
How to Care for the Treated Area After the Procedure
Immediately following a laser ablation or foam injection procedure, it’s important to place a compression stocking over the treated area. While you’ll be able to resume any normal activities the next day, it’s important to both protect the treated area and ensure that you’re minimizing the risk of developing any side effects. On the former point, you’ll want to ensure the treated area is protected from the sun for several weeks. You’ll also want to ensure that you’re wearing the compression stockings over the treated area for up to two weeks, and getting exercise.
Finding Treatment in Manhattan, New York
The Schulman Vein and Laser Center are experts in all things veins. With more than 55 years of combined experience, Drs. Martin L. Schulman and Dr. Lee G. Schulman are internationally recognized vein experts. Meet our vein physicians in Manhattan, New York.
Schulman Vein’s Exceptional Practice
For more information on how varicose vein treatment is best carried out, contact the Schulman Vein and Laser Center today. Today, varicose veins can be effectively removed with safe, minimally invasive procedures, and we’re happy to provide a consultation with you to further explain how. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.