Vein treatments

Vein treatments

Cosmetic Veins problems can either be small, thin capillaries (spider veins) or larger veins that we call reticular veins. The very largest veins are called varicose veins. There are many factors that contribute to the development of these unsightly veins including pregnancy, weight gain, prolonged standing, and even genetics.

Spider veins form when excess blood backs up in the blood stream. The body releases this pressure by developing new veins. Not only are spider veins unsightly, but they can also cause aching, swelling, burning, and night cramps in the legs. Top To Toe can treat spider veins.

Top To Toe can organize the treatment of larger vein problems at a medical facility. Reticular veins are those blue veins that lie well below the skin's surface and are larger than the spider veins. They often are the source of spider veins and must also be removed in order to achieve a long-term result in your treatment. Finally, varicose veins are quite large, and tend to bulge with a rope-like texture on the skin's surface. They are likely to cause pain and be related to more serious vein disorders.

The best technique used to treat spider and reticular veins involves laser or IPL treatments. Most treatments last only 15 minutes. During your initial consultation, we will be able to estimate the cost of your treatments and tailor the treatments to your needs.

About the Procedure

Laser / IPL vein removal is surprisingly fast, and effective. The laser/IPL light achieves vein removal by destroying the vein without burning the skin above. The laser / IPL will shoot a concentrated beam of light that passes through your surface skin and is preferentially absorbed by the hemoglobin in the vein. When the light is absorbed, it is converted to heat, a process that is similar to what happens inside a car that has been sitting in the sun. As the sun shines light into the car, the light is absorbed by the seats, wheel, and dashboard. It is then converted to heat, making them hot to the touch. The same happens to the vein. As the vein is gently heated (a process that occurs in 50 milliseconds or 1/20th of a second), the walls of the vein collapse and thus blood flow is stopped. Over a period of three to four weeks, the vein is reabsorbed by the body and disappears.

During your treatment, you will feel a slight tingling sensation as the laser/ IPL fires. The skin above the veins will have a reddish, cat-scratch appearance. This generally disappears over the next two days. Sometimes we apply a local anesthetic cream over the proposed treatment area if you find the sensation is uncomfortable. You can expect to return immediately to your normal daily activities, although we do recommend elevation of the treated areas that day to enhance the treatment's success.

The risks associated with vein therapy are minimal and similar to the risks of laser / IPL hair removal. Your eyes will be shielded during the treatments. There is a small risk of pigment changes, which can be reduced by avoiding prolonged sun exposure during the treatments.

FAQ

Are these vein treatments permanent?

The removal of spider and reticular leg veins is not an exact science. Most patients achieve a significant reduction in the appearance of their veins and are very satisfied with the treatments. Of course, aging begins the moment the treatment ends. In addition, other factors such as standing and genetics continue. We recommend a single yearly treatment to "clean up" any new veins that appear.

Are the treatments painful?

Most patients describe a tingling sensation during the brief time the laser /IPL is actually firing.

Are the treatments safe?

As in laser /IPL hair removal, there are a few uncommon risks associated with both laser and injection vein therapy. These include pigment changes and blistering.

How long do the treatments take and how many treatments will I need?

Each treatment session generally lasts fifteen minutes. We can treat a significant number of veins during that session. Typically, you can expect to need two to three sessions to achieve the appearance you desire. Of course, you can stop treatments at any time or continue with additional treatments should you desire.

How much do the treatments cost?

Our fees are for each treatment session and start at $200.00. During your initial consultation Top To Toe will estimate the number of treatment sessions you will need in order to give you an idea of cost. A consultation fee is $20.

Pre and Post Treatment Instructions

Pretreatment

In order to achieve the best success, we advise the use of tight-fitting support hose (20-30psi) for three days after your treatment. You should purchase these and bring them with you for your appointment.

Avoid active tanning prior to your treatment.

Post-treatment

Avoid prolonged sun exposure after your treatments.

Keep the treatment site moist with Aquaphor or an antibiotic ointment for the first 48 hours after treatment.

Avoid vigorous exercise and hot tub baths for 48 hours after your treatment

Avoid anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or Advil for 48 hours after your treatment.

Use the support hose for three days.