FACIAL VEINS - Calgary
LASER TREATMENT AND SCLEROTHERAPY FOR FACIAL VEINS
WHAT FACIAL VEINS TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
SKIN LASER TREATMENTS
For facial vessels that are too small to be injected, skin laser treatments are the gold standard of facial cosmetic surgery. Passing a high intensity laser beam over the abnormal vessel will cause it to disappear. A few individuals may experience redness and/or swelling for a few days after facial cosmetic surgery treatment. Because the evolution of visible facial vessels is an indication of damage to the vascular network, regular skin laser maintenance treatments will help keep your complexion clear and more youthful looking. Contact us for more information on laser treatment for facial veins.
SCLEROTHERAPY
For larger facial veins unable to be affected by skin laser treatments, Sclerotherapy is the gold standard of treatment. For optimal results, Sclerotherapy is traditionally performed as the first step in treating visible facial veins. This facial cosmetic surgery procedure involves the injection of saline, dextrose, or specially developed medication into the vein. The solution irritates the vessel wall causing it to collapse. Healthier vessels nearby take on the blood flow of the collapsed vessel.
The solution is extremely safe and relatively painless. Anaesthesia and sedation are not needed. The medication spreads and affects large networks of vessels. Some patients may experience minor bruising at the injection site.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT MY FIRST VISIT?
At your first visit, you will be given a form to complete, that will outlline your medical history. The nurse will bring you into the examination/treatment area where she will transcribe the information and take your vital signs. To assist the doctor in establishing a diagnosis, a non-invasive diagnostic test may be performed on all new patients and patients who have not had laser treatment for veins or Sclerotherapy in the last twelve months. This test evaluates the venous circulation in your legs. Alberta Health Care (AHC) does not cover the cost of this test.
The doctor will then perform a thorough examination of your problem and, if needed, initiate further diagnostic testing. After all the test results are in, a treatment plan to improve your condition will be established. If you do not require further testing, a treatment plan outline will be suggested and you may begin treatment immediately.
HOW MANY SESSIONS DO I NEED?
Sclerotherapy involves a series of injection treatments scheduled in 2 week intervals. The number of treatment sessions will be indicated in your treatment plan. Expect to spend 30–45 minutes per treatment. This will allow for check in time, being examined, being treated, etc. If you cannot keep your appointment, we understand, but we would appreciate 24 hours notice. There will be a charge for no shows. As you age, new veins will appear. Yearly assessment and treatment will keep you looking and feeling healthy.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS & COMPLICATIONS OF TREATMENT?
Bruising, sometimes accompanied by tiny red dots, may occur following injections; this is normal and should disappear within 3-4 weeks. The use of support hose helps reduce bruising and accelerates healing. There are also topical gels and creams available to help reduce bruising. Ask our staff about them, or about any questions you may have regarding laser treatment for veins or Sclerotherapy.
On occasion, as a vessel closes, a small pocket of blood may become trapped. The vessel with the trapped blood may appear darkened and you may experience discomfort in this area; do not be alarmed. As soon as you notice this, please call our office to make an appointment. We will release the pocket of blood, allowing the vessel to close properly.
Occasionally, a tender cord may be felt along the area of a treated vein; do not worry - this is not phlebitis; it is simply the vein closing. The tenderness will disappear and, in time, so will the vein. To relieve discomfort, exercise abundantly and apply a warm, wet compress.
Despite a detailed medical history and thorough clinical examination, there is always a possibility of an allergic reaction to treatment. This rare complication may range from a slight tingling sensation, with red blotches on the skin, to an anaphylactic reaction and shock. Our clinic is an accredited non-surgical facility. Our doctors and nurses have certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and are able to manage this type of complication, should it arise.
Unlike laser treatments for veins, there is a very SLIM chance that complications may arise from Sclerosing agents spilling into the subcutaneous tissues or being introduced into an arteriole, potentially resulting in an ulcer that will eventually heal but leave a scar. At the slightest sign of irregularity, do not hesitate to call the clinic. The receptionist will relay your message to a doctor or nurse who will return your call as soon as possible.
To find out if you could benefit from skin laser treatments or Sclerotherapy, call our office and schedule your consultation today.
