What are unsightly veins?
These benign vascular lesions include enlarged blood vessels and capillaries that appear on the surface of the skin as splotches, dots, bulges and spider shapes. They can show up in a variety of colors ranging from red to purple to brown. Weakness in the walls and valves of the veins cause blood to stagnate rather than to be properly circulated. Some vascular lesions are so tiny that they are not visible under normal conditions. Others, such as varicose leg veins can be quite prominent.
Can unsightly veins be prevented?
It is impossible to totally control the occurrence of varicose and spider veins. But taking certain precautions may make them less likely:
- Avoid sun exposure. Ultraviolet light may play a role in dilation of the blood vessels, especially in the face.
- Wear support hose — this is especially important for those with jobs that require lots of standing or walking.
- Elevate the legs as much as possible when at rest.
Varicose leg veins are believed to be hereditary, but are also associated with injuries, infections, hormonal factors and lifestyles. Obesity, pregnancy, old age and prolonged standing may also contribute to varicose veins.
What types of unsightly veins can be treated?
Many IPL systems are equipped with 2 different light technologies, making it the treatment of choice for both varicose veins and discolored clusters, commonly called "spider veins" that are near the skin's surface.
What technology is used for deeper blue varicose veins?
The Nd:YAG Laser is used to treat larger, deeper veins. These veins respond to the precise energy level and wavelength of light that is used. A small spot of laser light travels through the skin, and is absorbed by the blood within the vein. The resulting heat coagulates or clots the blood, and destroys the function of the vein. This process does not affect the surrounding tissue. Over time, the vein is absorbed by the body and disappears from sight.
How are surface veins and spider veins treated?
The Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology successfully treats small, superficial blood vessels using precise pulses of light energy.
How many treatments are needed?
Leg veins require multiple treatment sessions over the course of a few months. Small vessels also require several treatments to resolve.
What is a treatment with IPL like? Is it painful?
A pulse of laser or Intense Pulsed Light energy may feel like a pinch similar to a rubber band being snapped on the skin. A chilled gel applied to the skin and other techniques prevent discomfort. Patients wear protective eyewear during treatment. The entire process is brief and non-invasive.
What preparations must I make prior to treatment?
Patients do not have to change their normal routines before or after treatment. Sun exposure must be limited prior to and following any type of laser or IPL treatment. Treatment should not be performed on tanned skin.
Are the treatments safe? Are they approved by the government?
IPL and laser systems are FDA-cleared to treat the full range of benign vascular and pigmented lesions. These include varicose veins, telangiectasias, diffused redness in the skin (erythema) and vascular birthmarks such as port wine stains.
Does insurance cover IPL treatments for varicose leg veins?
Coverage varies from carrier to carrier. In most instances insurance does not cover the cost of cosmetic procedures. Patients should consult with their physicians and individual insurance companies for more information.
How is IPL used to treat benign vascular lesions?
The face has an extensive network of veins and tiny blood vessels called capillaries. Over time, aging, trauma, sun exposure and certain lifestyle factors cause a them to become more prominent or break - these breakages appear as red streaks, spider veins, or blotches on the skin. The IPL treatment destroys capillaries and excess blood that has leaked into the skin without harming surrounding tissue. Overtime, the capillary is reabsorbed by the body and disappear.
PL Skin Treatments improve the signs of aging from the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands. It is an in-office procedure performed by a physician or trained medical staff member. A treatment program typically includes four to six sessions of about 20 minutes each, performed at three week intervals.
Why are laser and IPL Skin Treatments better than other treatments?
In addition to treating multiple symptoms and locations in each session, these procedures are gentle, non-invasive and safe. Because of this, there is no downtime. Patients see results in the complexion of the entire face and can return to normal routines and activities immediately after treatment. In fact, many people schedule their sessions during their lunch break. Additionally, treatments are customized to specific skin type and color, providing the best possible result.
Why are multiple treatments necessary?
By dividing the full program into several treatments, the procedure provides gradual, natural looking improvement with very low risk. Results are long lasting, usually a year or more.
Who is a candidate for this procedure?
Any man or woman who is showing the signs of aging and sun damaged skin is a candidate for laser and IPL Skin Treatments. A brief consultation with our physicians or specialists should provide all the information needed.
