VEINS
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.
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LASER TREATMENT AND SCLEROTHERAPY FOR SPIDER VEINS
HOW ARE SPIDER VEINS FORMED?
Spider veins, commonly found on the face and legs (also found on the chest and back) are caused by dilation of a small group of blood vessels near the skin's surface. They often look like red or purple sunbursts or web patterns.
WHAT SPIDER VEINS TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
SKIN LASER TREATMENTS
The available skin laser treatments use a high intensity laser beam to destroy spider veins that are too small to be injected. This procedure is most effective when used at, or near, the end of treatment to close off the 'tail ends' of the spider veins. This cosmetic laser surgery procedure is extremely safe, relatively painless, and requires no anaesthetic.
LIQUID SCLEROTHERAPY (INJECTION THERAPY)
Liquid Sclerotherapy or injection therapy is the Gold Standard in treating spider veins. Treatment involves the injection of a specially developed salt, sugar, ASA, or iodine-based medication into the vein. The medication irritates the vein wall causing an inflammatory response, which in turn causes the vein to close. The medication travels in the vein and affects large vein networks. Healthier vessels nearby absorb the blood flow of the collapsed veins. Patients are encouraged to walk or exercise after treatment.
MICRO-FOAM SCLEROTHERAPY
Micro-Foam Sclerotherapy is the first choice in treating larger vessels. During liquid Sclerotherapy, the liquid can quickly spread over large areas of the venous and arterial system. The Micro-Foam, on the other hand, is very easy to direct and control since it displaces the blood rather than being dissolved or diluted by it. Patients are encouraged to walk and to resume their normal activity following treatment.
WHAT OTHER TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
- Compression: Support stockings or socks, which are now available in a variety of styles and fashion colours, are recommended. They compress the lower leg and thus lessen the swelling and the formation of new varicose or spider veins. At the first visit, the doctor will indicate the strength you will need.
- Besides compression therapy, the most common form of treatment is surgical removal of the incompetent vein, know as “stripping”. This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and requires a 1–2 day hospital stay with up to 3 week convalescence period.
- Herbal Creams: It is not always possible to wear support stockings, especially in the summer. The application of a specifically formulated cream or gel that causes the vein to constrict is a good alternative. When your legs feel tired and/or heavy, there are creams that refresh and revitalize the leg.
- Surgery: On occasion, surgery may be needed prior to starting Sclerotherapy. The doctor will explain and make arrangements if it is indicated in your plan.
WHAT IS RECOMMEND FOR BEST RESULTS?
- DO NOT apply oil or cream to your legs less than 24 hours before your treatment (our tapes will not stick).
- DO NOT shave or wax your legs less than 24 hours before treatment (it will sensitize your skin).
- DO NOT suntan less than 24 hours before and 48 hours after your treatment (and always avoid sunburn).
- DO NOT take excessively hot baths or whirlpools immediately surrounding your treatment (it will dilate your veins).
- DO NOT wear girdles or constrictive clothing (they will impair your circulation).
- DO continue your routine as usual after your treatment; simply emphasize your exercise (walking, swimming, workout, etc.).
- DO watch your weight (weight gain will increase the burden on your vascular system and cause the vessels to dilate further).
- DO wear low-heeled shoes, especially if standing for long periods (high heels impair the venous return from your feet).
To find out which treatments would suit you best, call our office and schedule your consultation today.
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LASER TREATMENT AND SCLEROTHERAPY FOR VARICOSE VEINS
HOW ARE VARICOSE VEINS FORMED?
Varicose veins are caused by swollen or enlarged blood vessels, which occur due to a weakening in the vein's wall or valves. Heredity, pregnancy, or injury may play a significant role in an individual being predisposed to varicose veins. Located deeper in the skin than spider veins, they can appear raised and are often blue. While surgical stripping under general anaesthetic for varicose veins may be an option, the Cosmetic Laser & Vein Centre offers a number of more effective alternatives.
Varicose veins can be serious because they may be associated with the development of one or more of the following conditions:
- Phlebitis - inflammation of the vein.
- Thromboses - blood clots form in the enlarged vein.
- Venous Stasis Ulcers - an ulcer is formed when there is not proper drainage in the enlarged vein.
WHAT VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
VENOUS MAPPING
Recent advances in Venous Ultrasonography and laser surgical technology enable us to treat all varicose veins through small puncture sites that rarely require stitches and provide cosmetically acceptable results. After performing a Duplex Venous Ultrasound exam, an accurate venous map is made of the entire leg. When the precise anatomy and areas of diseased veins are identied, the treatment can be directed toward the patient's specific problem. It is this precise mapping that allows tailored treatment for every patient. Many of our procedures require local anaesthetic or no anaesthetic at all.
LIQUID SCLEROTHERAPY
Liquid Sclerotherapy is the Gold Standard in the treatment of small varicose veins. The medication mixes with the blood in the vessels and causes an inflammatory response. Over time this inflammatory response results in the closure of the treated vessel. By causing the diseased vessel to close, this will allow the surrounding healthy vessels to function.
MICRO-FOAM SCLEROTHERAPY
Micro Foam treatment is the Gold Standard in the treatment of large varicose veins. It delivers a faster and safer result. In order to treat large varicose veins with Liquid Sclerotherpay, larger volumes of medication are required. With that there is a greater chance for an allergic reaction. In Micro-Foam Sclerotherapy, smaller amounts of medication are 'foamed' which results in volumes equal to liquid but because there is less medication there is less chance of an allergic reaction.
The other disadvantage of using Liquid Sclerotherapy for the treatment of large veins is that you cannot control it entirely. Upon injection, the liquid can spread over large areas of the venous and arterial system. The Micro-Foam on the other hand is very easy to direct and control since it displaces the blood and ‘sticks’ to the vessel wall, rather than mixing with the blood and being diluted by it. Patients are encouraged to walk and resume their normal activities.
ULTRASOUND CATHETER GUIDED MICRO-FOAM SCLEROTHERAPY
For deeper varicosities, using ultrasound to guide the catheter Guided Micro-Foam is the best method to deliver medication into the underlying diseased veins. This approach is called Ultrasound Catheter Guided Micro-Foam Sclerotherapy, a technique that Dr. Grondin pioneered and has been adopted world wide.
First, the skin on the leg at the point of injection is numbed. Then a tiny puncture is made, through which the catheter is introduced. Using the probe from the ultrasound to visualize the anatomy, the catheter is guided into the diseased vein. This allows the Micro-Foamed medication to be administered to precise locations, safely and accurately. The patient is required to wear a non-stretch bandage and high compression stocking for 5 days after treatment. It is suggested that the patient avoid strenuous exercise while wearing the non-stretch bandage.
MICRO-SURGERY (PHLEBECTOMY)
This method involves surgically removing a vessel through a tiny incision. This procedure is performed under local aesthetic and the patient can resume a modified routine the next day. Since the incisions are so tiny, the results are frequently cosmetically pleasing.
ENDOVENOUS LASER VEIN SYSTEM (ELVeS®)
Endovenous laser surgery (ELVeS®) is the latest and most exciting introduction to laser treatment for varicose veins. Endovenous laser surgery is a state of the art laser treatment for superficial reflux of the Great Saphenous Vein – which often leads to varicose veins.
Endovenous laser surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where laser energy is delivered to the faulty Great Saphenous Vein, causing it to close. A laser fibre optic is introduced into the diseased vein, the laser energy then destroys the vein and the body absorbs the tissue. The surrounding healthy veins now have the opportunity to function properly. There are many veins in the leg therefore, after treatment, the body simply re-routes blood flow through other healthy veins.
The procedure is performed in our accredited non-hospital surgical facility under local anaesthetic. Afterward, the patient is required to wear a non-stretch bandage and high compression stocking for 5 days - normal activity may be resumed; however, vigorous exercise should be avoided. Endovenous laser surgery has been performed for a number of years on thousands of patients. The procedure has proven to be very effective with outstanding patient satisfaction. There is a low probability that recurrence will be experienced (5% at 5 years).
If unsightly or painful veins have been preventing you from living a full and healthy life, ask us about ELVeS - Endovenous laser surgery to find out if it’s right for you.
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Endovenous Laser Calgary | Liquid Sclerotherapy | Laser Treatment Varicose Veins Calgary
