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Laser and Pulsed Light Treatment Guide

Laser and Pulsed Light Treatment Basics

Laser Vein Removal and Intense Pulsed Light Vein Removal Treatments

Laser Vein Removal and Pulsed Light Vein Removal Treatments
Some of the most effective vein removal treatments available include laser vein removal and
pulsed light vein removal therapy. Both laser vein removal and pulsed light vein removal treatments
are effective at removing small veins or spider veins, and may be an attractive alternative to
sclerotherapy <7> and other types of vein removal procedures <1>.
LocateADoc.com makes it easy to find a vein doctor in your area <5>. Set up a consultation with a
vein removal specialist, and help you make the most informed decisions for vein removal surgery or
vein treatments <2> based on your specific needs.
How Intense Pulsed Light Vein Removal Procedures Work
Intense pulsed light (IPL) vein removal procedures are among the newest techniques for treating
spider veins<3>, and reticular veins. This procedure works by emitting intense pulsed light into the
veins to destroy them completely. Once the vein has been destroyed, the skin tissues heal fairly
rapidly and the skin resumes a healthy appearance.
Spider veins and reticular veins generally much smaller than varicose veins <4> and are usually
fairly dark in color. Most people undergo laser vein and pulsed light vein removal procedures for
cosmetic purposes. These veins are harmless, and are usually caused by abnormal blood flow
and a weakening of the blood vessel wall. Spider veins and reticular veins typically develop from
prolonged sitting and standing, weight gain and hormonal shifts. Many pregnant women develop
spider veins in their second trimester.
Other Types of Laser Vein Removal Treatment Options
In addition to intense pulsed light therapy for vein removal, the vein specialist may recommend
other types of laser procedures for vein removal, such as the Nd: YAG laser, diode laser and the
long-pulse alexandrite laser. All of these lasers are administered in conjunction with a cooling
device which reduces discomfort during the heating process, and also lowers the risk of injury to the
skin.
Laser vein removal is a fast, efficient and effective way to treat superficial spider veins, and has
been used in the United States for over 30 years. Different types of vein removal lasers have
different wavelengths of light, and the laser beam is focused onto the vein to damage the vein
without affecting the nearby skin tissue. The vein is then reabsorbed by the body within a four to
six-week period.
Laser vein removal and intense pulsed light treatments for getting rid of spider veins offers an
alternative to surgery, such as surgical ligation or vein stripping <13>. Surgical ligation and vein
stripping are typically recommended only for getting rid of large, bulging and painful varicose veins.
Laser Vein and Pulsed Light Vein Removal Treatments – PG 6
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If you have spider veins and would prefer not to undergo sclerotherapy <7> or other types of vein
removal procedures <1>, good candidate for laser vein and pulsed light vein removal procedures.
Set up a consultation with a vein removal specialist, and help you make the most informed
decisions for vein removal surgery or vein treatments <2> based on your specific needs.

Some of the most effective vein removal treatments suggested by your vein doctor include laser vein removal and intense pulsed light vein removal. Both laser vein removal and intense pulsed light vein treatments are effective at removing small veins or spider veins and may be an attractive alternative to sclerotherapy and other types of vein removal procedures.

To see pictures of people treated by these laser vein treatments, click here to visit our laser vein removal and pulsed light removal before and after gallery. When you've decided that laser vein removal or pulsed light vein removal treatments are for you, contact your vein doctor today. 

Laser Vein Removal Treatment

Your vein specialist may recommend several types of laser procedures for vein removal, such as the Nd: YAG laser, diode laser and the long-pulse alexandrite laser. All of these lasers are administered in conjunction with a cooling device that reduces discomfort during the heating process and lowers the risk of injury to your skin.

Laser vein removal is a fast, efficient and effective way to treat superficial spider veins and has been used in the United States for more than 30 years. Different types of vein removal lasers have different wavelengths of light, and the laser beam is focused on your vein to damage it without affecting your nearby skin tissue. Your vein is then reabsorbed by the body within a four- to six-week period.

Intense Pulsed Light Vein Removal Treatment

Intense pulsed light (IPL) vein removal procedures are among the newest techniques for treating spider veins and reticular veins. This procedure works by emitting intense pulsed light into your veins to destroy them completely. Once your vein has been destroyed, your skin tissues heal fairly rapidly and your skin resumes a healthy appearance.

Spider veins are generally much smaller than varicose veins and are usually dark in color. Most people undergo laser vein and pulsed light vein removal procedures for cosmetic purposes. These veins are harmless and typically caused by abnormal blood flow and a weakening of the blood vessel wall. Another method to consider for smaller or spider vein treatment is sclerotherapy.

Advantages to Laser Vein and IPL Treatments

  • Better appearance
  • You can usually resume normal activities quickly
  • Risks are minimal

Disadvantages to Laser Vein and IPL Treatments

  • Slight bumps on the skin appear following the surgery, but soon go away
  • Treatments are often spaced apart
  • Results take a couple of weeks to display

See Vein Treatment Before and After Photos

Take some time to review laser vein removal and pulsed light treatment before and after pictures to see how your problem areas compare.

Find a Vein Specialist in Your Area

Contact a vein specialist to discuss the different types of vein treatments available and receive recommendations based on your situation.

Take Me Back to the Vein Treatment Guide.

More Laser and Pulsed Light Treatment Information »

Frequently Asked Questions About Vein Treatment

  • What are varicose veins?
  • How do varicose veins develop?
  • What are spider veins?
  • What are the risk factors for developing varicose veins?
  • What are some of the signs of varicose veins? Any relationship with restless leg syndrome?
  • Are there ways to prevent varicose veins?
  • Are varicose veins harmful to my health?
  • How do I get a diagnosis for varicose veins?
  • What are the best treatments for varicose veins?
  • What do I need to do after varicose vein treatment?
  • Do varicose veins return after treatment?
  • Should I see a doctor when I have varicose veins?
  • Are vein treatment procedures covered by insurance?
  • How should I pick the right vein treatment doctor to perform my procedure?
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