Varicose veins are a mainly cosmetic skin concern, but they can sometimes cause mild aches and itchiness. For many, laser treatment offers an effective solution. But what exactly happens to varicose veins after laser treatment? In this blog post, we will be exploring everything from understanding varicose veins to post-treatment expectations.
Photo by cottonbro studio
Understanding varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen blue/purple veins that appear on the surface of the skin. They happen when valves become weaker and allow blood to accumulate. This can result in enlarged veins visible right under the skin’s surface.
Varicose veins are most commonly found in the legs and feet, which endure significant pressure from standing and walking. While for some people, these veins might be merely a cosmetic issue, for others, they can cause mild discomfort such as itching or aching.
Symptoms can range from aching legs, a heavy feeling, and swelling to more severe complications like ulcers and skin changes. Understanding what varicose veins are is the first step in exploring how to treat them effectively.
How can laser treatment help?
Laser treatment such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) has changed the game when it comes to treating varicose veins. It employs targeted light energy to collapse these veins, the surrounding tissue is left unaffected. The procedure is minimally invasive, and is not known to be uncomfortable or painful.
Laser treatment is a highly effective solution, as has a quick recovery time too, this makes it a preferred choice for many patients.
What happens post laser treatment?
Immediate aftermath
Directly after the procedure, you might experience some redness around the treated area. This is normal and usually subsides within a few hours. You may also notice some swelling too. It’s crucial to follow your skincare professional’s post-treatment care instructions carefully to ensure optimal recovery.
The healing process
Over the next few weeks, the treated vein will gradually fade away as the body absorbs it. The surrounding healthy veins will take over the role of transporting blood, leading to improved circulation in the affected area.
Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two, although you should avoid strenuous activity for about a week. Walking is encouraged as it promotes good circulation and aids the healing process.
Long-term results
One of the biggest advantages of laser treatment is its long-term effectiveness. Most patients experience significant reduction in the appearance of their varicose veins, although results vary from person to person. However, it’s vital to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent new ones from forming. Many are formed due to sitting still for long periods of time or standing still for too long too. Exercise is an important factor in preventing the formation of varicose veins to begin with.
