Preventing recurring varicose veins with laser treatment
Varicose veins affect millions of people, yet they often go untreated. The biggest reason behind this is its treatment reputation. In the past, surgery was the only solution and it wasn’t pretty. Not only did it involve a long recovery time, but it also wasn’t overly effective. In fact, even today, the recurrence rate of surgery is said to be as much as up to 50%. That’s a very discouraging statistic when you’re trying to decide whether or not to get the problem treated.
However, times have changed and now there’s a huge range of treatments available, with surgery used in only the more severe cases. If you treat varicose veins early, especially with laser treatment, it significantly reduces the chance of them recurring later on in life. Compared to surgery, the recurrence rate is said to be as low as 2%-4%.
How does laser vein treatment work?
There are several types of laser treatments available, with the main difference being the strength of the laser. Endovenous laser ablation is a popular option, using laser energy to seal the veins shut.
Earlier laser treatments were known to cause a lot of discomfort up to five days after the procedure. However, thanks to advancements in the field, newer lasers are much more effective at targeting the area, significantly reducing the discomfort felt during recovery. In fact, some are now virtually painless.
Is it right for you?
While laser treatment is an excellent solution, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is more effective at treating complex varicose veins, but if the problem is severe, surgery may be the only option.
Overall, it’s important to book a consultation and seek advice from a specialist before you decide which treatment option is right for you. Laser treatment can be used to treat a wide range of varicose vein issues, but if could be you only need support stockings if the problem is very mild.