Safe And Effective Ways To Prevent Varicose Veins
The Latest Treatments for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are large, blue or purple cord-like structures that elevate the surface of the skin. Varicose veins can be unsightly, but most importantly uncomfortable. Learn about the latest treatments for varicose veins.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins function as a vessel that returns blood to the heart. The one-way valves located within the vein ensure proper blood flow. However, when the valves begin to weaken, the blood flow can back-shift and collect in the vein.
Varicose veins can be caused by age, hormone changes, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, blood pressure problems, sun exposure and hereditary factors. The added strain of gravity is why varicose veins are usually located on the legs. Varicose veins can be painful, causing swelling and numbness. In serious cases, varicose veins can cause blood clots, slowing down the circulatory system.
The Latest Treatments for Varicose Veins: Sclerotherapy and Microsclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a popular treatment for varicose veins. A sclerosing solution is injected directly into the varicose vein. This causes it to expand and then collapse. Microsclerotherapy is similar, only the solution and injection process may be more effective.
Some varicose veins require additional injections. Full sclerotherapy treatment may include a series of sessions. While some veins don’t respond to treatment, many patients can expect up to 90 percent improvement. An added benefit to sclerotherapy is that patients can resume normal activities the next day.
Side effects of sclerotherapy may include involve bruising, swelling, redness or irritation, skin discoloration and spots around the treated area. These symptoms usually fade with time. In rare cases, blood clots can form.
The Latest Treatments for Varicose Veins: Endovenous Laser Treatment
Endovenous laser treatment is a cosmetic procedure that uses a laser for the removal of varicose veins. Cosmetic laser surgery may not be as effective on larger varicose veins. The procedure is very safe, but heat from the laser can be painful. Cooling agents are applied to the treated areas to reduce discomfort.
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery for Varicose Veins: Surgical Ligation and Stripping
A few cosmetic surgery procedures are available for the treatment of varicose veins. Surgical ligation uses a catheter to assist with removal. Heat from lasers or radio waves is administered to the vein through the catheter, causing the vein to collapse.
Cosmetic surgical ligation and stripping can be performed in an outpatient setting with local or general anesthesia. Possible complications are adverse reaction to anesthesia, scarring, blood clots, bleeding and infection. Recovery can take a few weeks, during which time you may experience some discomfort and swelling, redness.
Cosmetic Surgery for Varicose Veins: Ambulatory Phlebectomy and Endoscope
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a minimally invasive surgical method for the treatment of varicose veins. Tiny incisions are made and surgical hooks are used for removal. No stitches are required and patients can resume normal activities once the procedure is complete.
Endoscopic surgery is conducted with a tiny camera for increased precision. This method is normally reserved for serious cases of varicose veins. Spinal, epidural or general anesthesia is required. Recovery time can take up to three weeks.
Understanding the Limitations of Treatment for Varicose Veins
While there are many benefits to treating varicose veins, none will provide a complete solution. New varicose veins can form and there is a chance the future treatment may be necessary. You can take preventative measures with regular exercise, wearing compression hose, avoiding sun exposure or standing and sitting for long periods.
Cosmetic Surgery Cost for Varicose Vein Treatment
The cost for treatment varies based geographical area, surgeon expertise, the level of treatment required and the chosen treatment method. Sclerotherapy can be as low as $150 in some cases, but typically escalates. Laser treatment starts at $400 and ambulatory phlebectomy is upwards of $1,000.
About the Author
Different cosmetic plastic surgery procedures can be combined depending on the situation of the individual. Contact a cosmetic surgery professional to discuss your options and cosmetic surgery cost . Refer to DocShop.com for more information about the latest treatment for varicose veins.
Varicose Veins Treatment - Varicose Veins CURES
