Superficial Laser for Varicose Veins: How It Works, Aftercare & Side Effects

Superficial laser for leg varicose veins is one of the modern, minimally invasive methods for treating varicose vein disease and it is considered a laser treatment method for eliminating superficial varicose veins.

• The Superficial Laser Method for Leg Varicose Veins
• Aftercare for Varicose Vein Laser (Superficial and External Laser)
• Advantages of the Superficial Laser Method for Varicose Veins
• Applications of Superficial Laser for Varicose Veins
• Side Effects of Superficial Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

This treatment is one of the minimally invasive and modern methods used to eliminate small, superficial varicose veins employing superficial laser radiation in specific cases. In this method a device is used to direct the laser beam superficially onto the area of skin beneath which the varicose veins are located. The heat and energy of the laser block and destroy the varicose veins. This treatment is widely used nowadays and is performed in numerous clinics and centers. However it is crucial to note that if you intend to undergo this procedure, it must be performed based on the diagnosis and prescription of a varicose vein specialist in a reputable and well-equipped clinic using an advanced and proper laser device.

Furthermore there are numerous treatment methods for varicose veins available today. Given the prevalence of injectable treatments like sclerotherapy, superficial laser is used only in specific cases. Applying this method when the veins are deep, or without the approval of a specialist, can lead to complications such as burns, infection, skin staining or scarring. For more information you can watch the video provided at the end of this article.

The Superficial Laser Method for Leg Varicose Veins

Before explaining this method it is important to know that there are several types of laser therapy for varicose veins: superficial laser and endovenous laser (EVLT) which are typically used for larger, deeper veins, primarily for truncal varicose veins. The physician determines which method is more suitable for you based on the severity and depth of your varicose veins.

This method known as superficial laser is performed solely by radiation on the skin's surface. It is used for small, shallow veins and sometimes for treating spider veins. Essentially the laser beam through the heat it generates, closes the small varicose veins. The closure of these veins cuts off blood flow within them, causing the veins to gradually fade and be absorbed by the body. This method may sometimes be used in combination with other treatments like sclerotherapy for varicose veins. Superficial laser is one of the treatment types in which laser radiation is used to improve leg varicose veins. If you wish to learn more about laser treatments for varicose veins, you can read the article on Types of Laser for Varicose Veins.

What Should Be Done Before Superficial Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins?

Before undergoing this treatment, it is necessary to consider the following points:

1. Consultation with a Varicose Vein Specialist: Determining whether this method is suitable for treating your varicose veins depends on the doctor's opinion. They will decide based on your type of varicose veins, medical history and your general health condition.

2. Wearing Comfortable, Loose Clothing: The doctor may ask you to wear comfortable shorts during the laser procedure. After the treatment, you should also avoid wearing tight clothing and opt for clothes especially pants that you can easily take off.

3. Avoid Using Ointments and Lotions Before Laser: Refrain from applying any ointment or lotion before the laser session. The skin surface must be completely clean and hair-free. If you have sensitive skin or are taking specific medication, be sure to inform your doctor.

Aftercare for Varicose Vein Laser (Superficial and External Laser)

After this treatment the following care is recommended:

Using Compression Stockings: After the laser your doctor may ask you to wear compression stockings to improve blood circulation in your legs.

Rest and Avoiding Strenuous Activity: Rest for a few hours after the laser, keep your legs elevated and avoid demanding and highly active sports and exercises.

Skin Protection After Varicose Vein Laser Treatment: Do not expose your skin to sunlight especially for prolonged periods and be sure to use sunscreen.

Light Activity and Exercise: After a few days and with your doctor's opinion and diagnosis you can engage in light activities such as short walks.

Advantages of the Superficial Laser Method for Varicose Veins

This treatment offers several advantages compared to methods like surgery including:

1. Low and Mild Pain: Due to its minimally invasive nature and the lack of need for incisions or surgery, this method involves mild and minimal pain. Sometimes if needed a mild local anesthetic is used.

2. Short Recovery Period: It does not require hospitalization or long-term rest and you can resume your daily activities afterward.

3. High Efficacy: This treatment is particularly effective and beneficial for superficial and small varicose veins.

4. Preserving Leg Appearance and Aesthetics: For many individuals especially women for whom maintaining the beauty and appearance of their legs is important, this method achieves the desired result by eliminating varicose veins.

Applications of Superficial Laser for Varicose Veins

A health center in Canada considers superficial laser effective for small subcutaneous varicose veins and spider veins. Sometimes this method is also suggested as a second stage of treatment following sclerotherapy, endovenous laser or surgery for large varicose veins.

Side Effects of Superficial Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Due to its minimally invasive nature, this method typically has few side effects provided as mentioned, it is performed in a reputable, well-equipped clinic under the supervision of a specialist. Some potential side effects of this method include:

1. Swelling and Bruising: You may experience slight swelling and bruising at the laser site. These symptoms are normal do not cause significant concern and will gradually subside.

2. Burns and Infection: The likelihood of this complication is very low and rare. However if you experience severe inflammation, pain, redness or discharge at the laser site, be sure to consult your doctor.

Why is Laser Sometimes Associated with Burns?

Causes of burns after laser treatment can include the following factors:

• Lack of Physician Skill and Experience
  Accurate diagnosis and precise device calibration will reduce the risk of burns from laser radiation. Furthermore as previously mentioned, this treatment is only suitable for small, superficial varicose veins and its indication must be determined by a varicose vein specialist. Therefore if this treatment is not appropriate for your type of varicose veins, in addition to a lack of therapeutic results there is also a risk of burns and hyperpigmentation.

• Laser Device Settings and Type
  If the type or settings of the laser device or its beam are inappropriate, it can cause damage and burns to the skin and tissues. Therefore not every laser device can yield optimal therapeutic results.

• Skin Type
  Very sensitive skin may exhibit signs of burning in response to laser. If you have sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies, be sure to inform your doctor.

• Depth of Varicose Veins
  The closer these veins are to the skin surface, the higher the likelihood of burning the surrounding area. This is precisely why the physician's experience and judgment in applying the appropriate dose and intensity of laser radiation are crucial.

• Number of Treatment Sessions
  Sometimes, eliminating varicose veins requires several laser therapy sessions. This is because performing laser treatment in a single session can sometimes increase the risk of burns and other complications.

However if you experience a burn after laser treatment for any reason, be sure to use specialized burn ointments in consultation with and as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid exposure to sunlight and if the burn is accompanied by blistering or severe pain, be sure to consult a physician.

Conclusion

Superficial laser for varicose veins is one of the types of laser treatments for this condition, used today either alone or alongside other treatment methods like sclerotherapy. This method is often used to treat varicose veins that are close to the skin surface and small and it is primarily for aesthetic purposes.

(FAQ)

Is superficial laser treatment for varicose veins painful?

This method does not cause significant pain. You may only feel a slight burning sensation or discomfort due to the laser beam contacting your skin which is usually tolerable.

Is superficial laser suitable for treating large varicose veins?

No, as mentioned this method is only suitable for small, superficial varicose veins. For deep and large varicose veins, methods like endovenous laser (EVLT) are used.

Can I walk after varicose vein laser treatment?

Yes, after this treatment you can walk and engage in mild, light activities. Gentle walking and light activities will help improve your blood circulation.

How effective is varicose vein laser treatment?

Varicose vein laser treatment is typically 98% successful and recurrence is almost non-existent. However patients may develop new varicose veins because laser is considered a treatment, not a preventative measure.

How can I know if superficial laser is the right treatment for my varicose veins?

This determination is made by a varicose vein specialist and only in specific cases. This treatment is mainly applicable to small, shallow varicose veins that have only caused a cosmetic issue and have not led to pain or complications.

Why is Laser Sometimes Associated with Burns?

Causes of burns after laser treatment can stem from the following factors: