What is laser vascular therapy?
Laser vascular therapy is the process of delivering pulses of light energy to unwanted superficial vascular structures through the skin such as:
Do the treatments hurt?
Most patients experience a stinging sensation with each pulse of light delivered. The majority of patients tolerate this very well. We will discuss pre-treatment pain control with you at your consultation. Following treatment pain is very minimal if present at all. Our laser system has the latest technology in being able to continually cool your skin as it is being used which greatly improves your comfort during and after the procedure.
What are other ways my veins can be treated?
Surgery: this a procedure in which you are taken to the operating room and under general anesthesia tiny incisions are made and a wire is inserted into the vein to “strip” it.
Sclerotherapy: in this procedure a strong salt solution is injected with a fine needle into each vein to cause its destruction
Endovenous ablation: under local anesthesia, a tiny tube is inserted into the vein and either laser or radiofrequency energy is used to heat and cause destruction to the vein
How effective is laser vascular therapy?
Most patients find that their veins show significant improvement with just one treatment. Continued improvement can be evident for several months after treatment. The number of treatments recommended will depend on the number, color and size of the vessels being treated. In general, 2-3 treatments, separated by at least 6 weeks are necessary to produce optimal results.
Why might I not respond to Laser therapy?
Our venous system is full of valves that keep the blood moving upward in spite of gravity. As we age or due to heredity, some of these valves may begin to leak. These leaking valves lead to increased pressure on the superficial venous system making laser therapy less effective. If this is suspected, you will be referred for ultrasound evaluation of your venous system.
What are the risks to this treatment?
Short-term complications can include redness or swelling to the area being treated usually lasting less than 24 hours. There can be blistering, crusting or flaking of the skin which may require 1-3 weeks to heal. Once healed the skin may be pink and sun sensitive for an additional 2-4 weeks possibly longer. Although rare, a skin infection to the area being treated is possible.
Long-term complications can include the slight possibility that the skin can either become lighter or darker in color compared to the surrounding area. This is usually temporary, but on a rare occasions, it may be permanent. Scarring is also a rare possibility but is quite unlikely if the post-op instructions are carefully followed.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
You will be given pre-op instructions prior to your procedure but the main things are to avoid tanning or self-tanning lotions 3 weeks prior to the scheduled treatment. In addition you will be asked to avoid ASA, ibuprofen-type products and products containing Vit E or fish oil for 14 days prior to laser therapy and 14 days after laser therapy.
What can expect after the treatment?
You will be asked to avoid hot bathing and sun exposure for a week post-op. The light therapy has caused heat energy to be transferred to your skin and you will want to protect it from further heat exposure until it has completely healed.
How much does this therapy cost?
The cost of the procedure depends on the number, color and size of the vessels to be treated. In general, the most limited procedures will be around $200/session and the most extensive sessions will be about $900/session. Pay for the first three (3) treatments, and receive the next two (2) treatments for free (for the same treated area and if done within one year from the first treatment). These prices are average and subject to change without notice. The cost of your procedure will be determined at your complimentary consultation.
Please do not hesitate to call our office for further information or questions. Branson Clinic Skin Spa LLC, phone number: 417-239-0125.
www.bransonclinicskinspa.com