Are you looking for a painless treatment for your varicose veins? Vein stripping was once a popular treatment for varicose veins, but it was somewhat painful, and often left scars. Since then, several new treatments have been developed, including laser therapy. However, because earlier treatments for varicose veins were painful, patients considering laser therapy often ask – Does laser vein therapy hurt?
How laser vein therapy works
Endovenous laser ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. During the procedure the physician will insert a long, thin laser fiber into a tiny incision made near the affected vein. This is done with the guidance of ultrasound technology. The heat from the laser closes off the vein, causing it to collapse. The vein eventually fades from view over the following 6-12 months.
Patients may experience some bruising and discomfort after treatment, but there is no downtime. Compression stockings will need to be worn for about 3-4 weeks after treatment, to help with healing.
Does laser vein therapy hurt?
Laser vein therapy is virtually painless, since a local anesthetic is injected into the veinprior to the laser treatment. Most patients find the procedure very tolerable, but patients with a particularly low pain threshold may feel a little discomfort when the local anesthetic is being injected. Some patients may also experience mild pain after the procedure, and the treatment area will be tender to the touch.
Are you ready to treat your varicose veins with laser therapy? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Albuquerque, NM area, Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute is our featured practice. They also serve the Rio Rancho and Santa Fe, NM areas.
You can reach them at www.albuquerquevein.com, or by calling 505-848-8346.