When it comes to treating varicose veins and spider veins, most individuals have a variety of options to choose from. Two of the most common procedures that are found to properly treat vein diseases are sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy. Sclerotherapy is a recently developed procedure that uses an injection called sclerosant to close off damaged veins. Laser vein therapy, on the other hand, uses laser heat to seal off damaged veins by creating scar tissue. While these two procedures are similar in goals, they have different methods to obtain the results.
How They Compare
St Louis sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy are two treatments that aim for the same goal: treating damaged veins. This is done by closing the damaged veins and preventing blood from pooling further. The treated veins are eventually broken apart and absorbed into nearby tissue, leaving behind clear skin.
How They Differ
While sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy differ in the results, they are completed through vastly different methods. Sclerotherapy uses an injectable treatment to treat varicose veins and superficial spider veins. The sclerosant closes down the vein at the site of injection often requiring several treatments for full vein closure. Sclerotherapy works great on veins that are larger and easier to inject into. Sclerotherapy can also treat small veins but has a bit more trouble on the tiniest red veins. For veins that are much smaller, laser vein therapy might be the better option for you. Laser heat breaks down the vein causing it to scar and permanently close up. It also requires several treatments. This is also a preferred choice for spider veins across the face.
The Results of Sclerotherapy
The results of St Louis sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy are similar to the damaged vein breaking done and eventually being absorbed into the body. Most procedures require multiple treatments for both options.
Expectations
As with other cosmetic procedures, there are some expectations to consider sclerotherapy and laser vein therapy. Many injections including sclerotherapy may be painful since general anesthesia is not used. However, the treatment only takes 30-40 minutes and there is no downtime needed for recovery; patients can even return to work that very same day. Laser vein therapy also allows patients to return to work and other activities that same day. Individuals who receive laser vein therapy for larger varicose veins such as endovenous laser treatment may be recommended to wear a compression sleeve for at least a week.
Vein Treatment from the Laser Vein Center
If you are looking to treat your pesky spider veins or varicose veins, look no further than the Laser Vein Center. Our trusted staff led by Dr. Wright are trained in these vein treatments and more. Call today for your free consultation and see what vein treatment is right for you.
