St. Louis Laser Vein Center

The network of veins and arteries found throughout the human body plays an essential role in an individual’s health. When things go wrong with veins, it’s very likely that symptoms quickly follow that require medical attention. This is often due to the fact that veins affect so many primary systems within the body including cardiovascular functions. Veins and arteries must work in perfect tandem to carry blood back and forth between extremities and the heart. Where arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart, veins are charged with returning oxygen-depleted blood from the rest of the body back to the heart for restoration and recirculation. While both functions are vital, veins face an extra obstacle thanks to the force of gravity making it a bit more difficult to get blood to flow upwards back towards the heart. To help in this process, veins are outfitted with a collection of important one-way valves. These valves push blood up and back in the right direction, however, it doesn’t take long for problems to arise when one or more of these valves isn’t working properly. Flowing opposite of the heart, blood can quickly begin to pool in the extremities causing a pressure buildup, swelling, and potentially, the development of varicose veins. While facial varicose veins often present with their own set of painful symptoms that just might range from swelling to discoloration, they are also linked to the development of smaller protrusions known as spider veins. As blood looks for more efficient routes away from varicose veins, they often web off towards the surface of the skin into what is referred to as spider veins. These may present in hues of red, purple, or blue and can be found across the legs, arms, face, or even hands. In addition to being linked to the development of facial varicose veins, spider veins are thought to be connected to genetics, age, weight changes, hormonal fluctuations, or even excessive exposure to the sun. Clinical Treatment Options for Hand & Facial Veins Whatever the cause behind the development of spider or varicose veins may be, they are often a nuisance to individuals looking to attain smoother, younger, and more radiant-looking skin. The appearance of veins at the surface of the skin can be particularly difficult for those that suffer from their development across the face or spider veins on hands. While facial veins can feel invasive and highly visible, those with veins infiltrating the hands may feel that the aesthetic ages them beyond their actual years. Fortunately, both scenarios do not simply have to be lived with. Instead, incredible advancements in cosmetic technology mean that those looking to reduce and eliminate problematic veins across the face and hands can now do so more easily than ever before. Replacing painful vein stripping is a collection of minimally invasive outpatient procedures that are not only highly effective but come with a great safety record and are associated with a rapid recovery time. Facial Vein Treatment in Our St. Louis Office Individual Results May Vary Facial Spider Veins Treatment Options For patients that notice the development of veins around the eyes, across the nose and cheeks, or along the jawline, cosmetic physicians are likely to recommend VeinWave as a treatment option for facial spider veins. This minimally-invasive technique utilizes painless thermocoagulation technology to close and collapse spider veins at the surface of the skin so that they are ultimately reabsorbed safely back into the body. The incision used to access spider veins using VeinWave is so minimal that local anesthetic is not required to maintain patient comfort standards. Once the treatment site is clearly identified, the attending physician will insert a small insulated needle underneath the skin and use targeted heat to collapse the facial veins at the source. While it may take a few treatment sessions to successfully rid a patient of the spider vein webbing that’s being targeted, each session generally takes no more than 15 minutes to complete. In addition to facial veins, VeinWave is also a popular option for treating spider veins along the ankles and other areas where veins are too small for more intense procedures. Sclerotherapy for Facial Spider Veins When it comes to treating larger spider veins on hands or varicose veins on the hands, many cosmetic physicians turn to Sclerotherapy as a solution. This minimally invasive technique begins with applying a local anesthetic for added comfort. Once the area is numb, the physician will inject a foam or liquid sclerosant directly into the problematic veins.

Beyond being a cosmetic concern, the development of varicose veins can truly pose a threat to a patient’s overall health. Varicose veins in St Louis are thought to be present in around 23% of all adults and commonly develop when a patient is suffering from an underlying vein issue or disease-causing valves to become faulty. Valves play an essential role within the greater vein network to keep blood flowing correctly between the heart and the rest of the body. When a valve fails, blood is allowed to flow in the opposite direction and begins to pool. The pooling blood in the veins causes veins to bulge and become visible on the surface of the skin. As veins become enlarged and swollen, they may appear twisted at the surface and can present in hues of either blue or purple. Benefits of Varicose Vein Treatment NO PAINFUL VEIN STRIPPING ONLY LOCAL ANESTHESIA IS USED, INCREASING THE PROCEDURE’S SAFETY QUICK AND EFFECTIVE CUTTING EDGE LASER TECHNOLOGIES USED QUICK TO NO RECOVERY TIME COMPREHENSIVE STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS ENSURES THE BEST RESULTS NON-COSMETIC VEIN TREATMENT IS COVERED BY MOST INSURANCE POLICIES MULTIPLE SAFE TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE CONTACT DR. WRIGHT TODAY TO LEARN MORE! Symptoms While many patients are frustrated at the development and appearance of varicose veins, the reality of it is that this condition also comes with symptoms that can prove to be less than comfortable. Burning sensations at the sight of varicose veins are common as well as muscle cramps, throbbing and a sense of overall fatigue. It’s not uncommon for a red tinge to frame the site of varicose veins and many will find the affected area sensitive to the touch. Conditions Linked to Varicose Veins St Louis varicose veins and their associated symptoms are unpleasant, but it’s the conditions varicose veins are linked to that must be taken extremely seriously. Physicians often point to undertreated or ignored varicose veins as being the underlying cause for conditions such as leg ulcers and blood clots. While leg ulcers come with their own set of worries, blood clots are well known to lead to potential pulmonary embolisms, strokes or heart attacks if they happen to dislodge. Treatment Options Treating varicose veins in St Louis is the best way to avoid the development of more serious health issues down the road. Many patients hesitate to undergo vein treatment still thinking that vein stripping is the one and only solution to the problem. Fortunately, major advances in both medicine and cosmetic treatment options have made vein stripping a thing of the past and patients today enjoy a more comprehensive, comfortable and successful lineup of treatment options to choose from. But which form is the best varicose vein treatment? In many cases, varicose veins treatment must begin with an underlying diagnosis. This is often established using a comprehensive exam process as well as a Doppler ultrasound in order to determine where faulty valves are located. From this point on, a treatment plan can be customized based on the specific determined conditions. In the vast majority of cases, the deeper underlying tissue will be treated first, with superficial veins close to the skin being left for the end of the treatment plan. Some common treatment options include Endovenous Ablation or Radiofrequency Ablation. Ultrasound-guided Sclerotherapy can additionally be used to close veins close to the surface of the skin. The Many Benefits of Treating Varicose Veins Without having to worry about the painful process of vein stripping in the modern-day and age, patients are free to truly appreciate the many benefits of varicose vein treatment. When it comes to safety, many patients shy away from procedures that require general anesthesia and fortunately for those looking at treatment for varicose veins in St Louis, the majority require nothing more than a local anesthetic. This greatly reduces the risks often associated with general anesthesia and makes for a quicker and more painless recovery time for patients in general. The use of laser technologies makes treatment options more efficient and successful than ever before while customized treatment plans have become the new normal, leading to greater long-term results for individuals. Does having varicose veins increase the risk of developing deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE)? Studies show a connection between varicose veins and DVT. It is not as clear with PE, and further research is needed. With severe varicose veins, there is a risk a DVT may occur. DVT increases the risk of Pulmonary Embolism, a serious condition when a blood clot breaks off of a Deep Vein Thrombosis, DVT. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) shows people with varicose veins are five times more likely to develop DVT.

The development of varicose veins is often frustrating for individuals suffering from the condition due to the aesthetic of these veins as well as the associated symptoms. Varicose veins are often caused by underlying venous insufficiencies that cause veins to become swollen and enlarged, eventually becoming visible underneath the skin. The arrival of varicose veins often brings with it painful symptoms such as swelling, aching, or cramping that can hinder movement and disrupt daily living. The network of veins found throughout the body is charged with the large responsibility of successfully moving blood back and forth to the heart, despite the pull of gravity. To help veins achieve this, they are equipped with a set of valves that move blood in the correct direction. When any of these valves become damaged or faulty, it doesn’t take long for blood to begin flowing the wrong direction. As blood begins to pool in the veins of the lower extremities, pressure builds causing veins to swell. Where vein stripping was once the exclusive solution for eliminating painful varicose veins, patients looking to reduce their appearance and symptoms today now have more options than ever thanks to advancements in cosmetic technologies. Long gone is the need to undergo invasive vein stripping that required a lengthy hospital stay and recovery period. Instead, patients now can select from minimally invasive radio frequency vein ablation options that can be performed as outpatient procedures and involve limited recovery times at most. Radiofrequency Vein Ablation Patients are finding radiofrequency vein ablation to be an extremely painless, efficient, and successful route to reducing and even eliminating varicose veins. This method allows a cosmetic physician to collapse a problematic vein using a minimally invasive technique in an office setting that takes anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour in total. Once a patient is comfortable, the physician will inject a local anesthetic before creating a tiny incision through which to insert a small probe. Once the probe is positioned near the defective vein, a wave of radiofrequency energy is directed towards the vein to heat and seal the vessel closed. Over time, the vein will collapse and be reabsorbed into the body without causing damage to any of the surrounding tissues or vessels. Blood will naturally re-route towards healthy veins as the damaged vein is absorbed, eliminating the appearance and symptoms associated with the varicose vein. leg_6_-_1_week leg_2_-_1_week Benefits of Radiofrequency Venous Ablation There are a long list of benefits associated with this minimally invasive procedure. Many patients are thrilled to know that following this radio frequency vein ablation, they can return home the same day. It’s likely that a physician will recommend the wearing of compression socks for a period of time following the procedure in order to promote healthy blood flow and healing. Some patients report redness or slight swelling at the treatment site that’s often diminished with the help of over the counter medications as needed. Because the incision used to insert the probe is no bigger than the tip of a pencil, those who elect to undergo radiofrequency venous ablation don’t have to worry about major scarring or wound care following this treatment. The entire recovery process is fairly timely and the elimination of general anesthesia and a hospital stay means that patients can rest peacefully knowing there is no risk of infection or respiratory complications related to either of these factors. Insurance Coverage Considerations As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s imperative that prospective patients check with their individual health insurance providers prior to undergoing treatment to understand what may or may not be covered. Some individuals are pleasantly surprised at the amount of coverage they’re eligible for when it comes to radiofrequency venous ablation as this procedure has the potential to carry long-term health benefits as it reduces underlying venous insufficiencies. If for some reason insurance is not available, or provides only minimal coverage, the team at the St. Louis Laser Lipo and Vein Center is happy to walk patients through a variety of in-clinic financing options that are available.

Clear, smooth and youthful-looking skin is an understandable and relatable cosmetic goal for men and women across the map, but as time moves on and the natural aging process takes over, it can be more difficult to attain this standard in the long-term. While it may be easy to point to exterior factors such as sun damage as a primary culprit in skin looking less than its best, sometimes the true problem lies well below the surface. The development and sudden appearance of spider veins is a common complaint amongst individuals struggling to maintain healthy and smooth skin as they age. While the evidence of spider veins is very much at the surface of the skin, the cause often sits beyond what the naked eye can see. There are a variety of factors that are linked with the development of spider veins, but venous insufficiency is often a big one, and understanding what’s happening within the greater network of veins is a good route to understanding what techniques, like sclerotherapy for spider veins, are best suited to eliminating them. spider veins at the source. What Causes Spider Veins Many times, the development of spider veins is closely linked to the development of varicose veins deeper underneath the skin’s surface. Veins work hard to return oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart from the extremities where it’s been delivered by arteries. In order to do this against the force of gravity, it’s necessary for veins to be outfitted with a series of one-way valves. When these valves no longer work properly, blood quickly flows the opposite direction and begins to pool in the veins, causing eventual swelling, discoloration, and the probability of varicose veins in the long-term. With nowhere else to flow, blood begins to look for alternative circulatory routes. When blood branches off from problematic varicose veins, the result is frequently the development of nearby spider veins. Characteristics of Spider Veins While spider veins don’t generally come with any associated or painful symptoms, many individuals desire to have them reduced or removed entirely in the name of cosmetic goals. Spider veins can appear anywhere on the body, including across the face, as a webbing of colorful damaged veins. While they are small in nature, spider veins can present in shades of blue, red, or even purple. Treatment Options While cosmetic surgeons of the past were very much limited in treating venous insufficiencies such as varicose and spider veins with invasive techniques such as vein stripping—patients today enjoy a wide variety of non-invasive or minimally invasive options when it comes to reducing and eliminating these issues. Amongst these options, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy for varicose veins has become a very popular choice for those looking to treat spider veins. This technique is particularly helpful for those patients that may have underlying venous issues which, if caught early on, could prevent further development of both spider and varicose veins in the future. How Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy in St Louis Works Patients that elect to undergo ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy in St Louis to treat spider veins begin with a traditional ultrasound procedure over the areas of the body where spider veins are dense or the physician believes there might be underlying problematic veins. The ultrasound allows the physician to locate deeper-lying veins that need attention as well as guide the injection of either liquid or foam sclerosant directly into the veins in question. In reaction to the sclerosant, the vein spasms to the point of closure and collapse. Eventually, the vein is reabsorbed naturally into the body without causing harm to the surrounding veins or tissues. Ultimately, this leads to the fading and possible elimination of spider veins. Safety Considerations Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy for spider veins is popular in large part thanks to its minimally invasive nature and quick recovery time. Results are proven to be highly effective and the procedure overall is considered extremely safe. Patients are not required to undergo general anesthesia when electing ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy in St Louis, eliminating any of the risks also linked to a large surgery, long hospital stay or lengthy recovery period with significant wounds, stitches, and eventually scars to care for. Instead, this technique uses nothing more than a local anesthetic to keep a patient comfortable and the incision point is so minimal that stitches aren’t necessary and it’s unlikely that a scar will be visible.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking about varicose veins and spider veins as purely cosmetic issues that need to be handled in the name of aesthetic preferences. However, the cause of these veins showing up at the surface of the skin lies well below what’s visible to the naked eye. For many people, recognizing what provokes the development of varicose and spider veins may very well be the first step in preventing their increase over time. Many physicians today can confidently point to circulator issues when it comes to pinpointing why varicose veins and spider veins develop. In order to function properly, the human body relies heavily on a network of veins and arteries to move blood throughout the body. While arteries carry blood filled with oxygen away from the heart out towards other parts of the body, veins are responsible for returning oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart to be replenished. In order for veins to be able to move blood against the force of gravity back to the heart, they are equipped with a series of one-way valves. These valves guarantee that blood moves quickly and easily in the right direction. When one or a series of valves malfunctions, it doesn’t take long for circulatory problems to follow. As blood begins to flow in the opposite direction, away from the heart, it quickly pools in the legs or lower extremities. Here, pressure begins to build on the vein walls. The result of this condition is often the development of bulging varicose veins or spider veins as blood looks for other vessels to follow near the surface of the skin. It’s not uncommon for varicose veins to be accompanied by several painful symptoms including swelling, skin discoloration or even issues related to mobility. Varicose Veins Preventative Care While it’s generally understood that complete prevention of the development of varicose or spider veins is impossible, there are many steps a person can take in an attempt to slow or prevent new veins from showing up in the future. Because their development is closely linked to poor blood circulation, maintaining a regular exercise regiment is often looked at as a way of preventing further varicose or spider vein development. Even periodic walks or aerobic exercise can do much in the way of promoting healthy blood flow throughout the body and reducing the pressure of blood on the vein walls. Exercise is closely linked to overall weight control, which can also play a part in vein health. Added weight causes added pressures on veins that are working hard to return blood to the heart. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise helps to reduce blood pressure and ultimately, gives veins a boost in performing their best. Lifestyle Adjustments for Varicose Veins Poor circulation leading to the potential development of varicose or spider veins is often linked to situations where a person must stand or sit for long periods of time. From sitting at a desk all day for work to spending multiple hours on a plane for travel, those that find themselves in extended periods of immobility are more susceptible to poor blood flow which can be linked to vein disease or insufficiencies in the long-term. Simple steps such as regularly flexing the feet and ankles, elevating the legs above the heart, or taking frequent walks can make a big difference when it comes to improved blood circulation in the lower extremities. Consider the Benefits of Compression Garments The clothing we choose to wear might also make a difference when it comes to the development of varicose or spider veins over time. Tight-fitting apparel can be a source of vessel constriction and can be swapped out for more flexible or comfortable materials to promote healthy blood flow. Similarly, wearing low heels or flat shoes promotes calf muscle movement during the day and improves circulation through the legs. Those that are suffering from a venous insufficiency or know they are prone to developing vein disease may want to consider the benefits of wearing compression garments. Available as stockings and sleeves, these garments are designed to improve blood circulation-ultimately helping to prevent deep vein thrombosis and are highly recommended during travel. Compression garments are available as over-the-counter purchases for those that are looking for general support and better blood flow. However, prescription compression garments such as stockings or sleeves are often the first choice of physicians treating patients who are prone to developing vein disease or are suffering from underlying conditions. These garments are specially ordered to fit the patient’s needs and are designed with graduated levels of compression to promote the best blood flow possible. Compression stockings are also used in the treatment of lipedema.

When the goal is smooth, healthy, and more youthful-looking skin, there are a number of factors that can get in the way of achieving this aesthetic—particularly when it comes to the development of varicose or spider veins. Often accompanied by painful swelling, discoloration, and a webbing effect at the surface, both varicose and spider veins can be a frustrating development for men and women alike over time. Just as important to recognize when it comes to these veins is that the results of their development are not only the visible features but underlying issues that could tell a wider-reaching story about an individual’s health profile. However, there are many treatments available to aleviate these issues; one in particular being foam sclerotherapy for spider veins. What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins? The human body requires a constant flow of freshly oxygenated blood to function properly and veins and arteries are part of the complex system charged with making sure blood is returned and distributed from the heart. Veins have the essential role of returning oxygen-depleted blood to the heart from far-reaching extremities which means working against the pull of gravity. One way valves within the veins help achieve this constant flow but in the event that valves malfunction, it doesn’t take long for blood to begin to flow the wrong direction and pool in place in the lower extremities. Often, this situation leads to the development of varicose veins that might bulge under the surface of the skin, present as twisted lengths of rope below the surface, and be accompanied by a variety of painful associated systems. While less painful than varicose veins, the development of spider veins can be just as frustrating for patients on an aesthetic level. Spider veins often present as webs of blue, purple, or red on the skin and can develop anywhere on the body. While some spider veins are linked to excessive UV ray exposure, genetics or hormonal fluctuations, other spider veins occur when blood looks for a new route away from problematic varicose veins. Treatment Options to Consider Whatever the underlying cause for the development of varicose and spider veins may be, individuals looking to diminish or eliminate them today have plenty of options to do so. While cosmetic and medical services of the past often revolved around removing problematic veins through a painful process known as vein stripping, advances in technology and techniques make it easier than ever for patients to undergo procedures that are safe, effective, and minimally invasive at most. Among the many options for treatment on the market, foam sclerotherapy for spider veins is finding its spot at the top of the list for those looking for a highly efficient route to reducing underlying vein issues while enjoying a quick to non-existent recovery time. This treatment is proving to be extremely effective at treating larger varicose veins as well as moderate spider veins across the body. How Foam Sclerotherapy Works Treatments begin with an attending physician clearly marking and mapping where problematic veins are on a patient. Once the mapping is complete, a local anesthetic is injected to ensure the procedure is painless for the patient. Over the course of 30 to 40 minutes, foam sclerosant will be injected through a small incision directly over the problematic vein. The foam sclerosant works to irritate the vein to the point of closure and collapse. Eventually, the vein is reabsorbed naturally by the body, allowing blood to circulate in a more constructive manner following healthy veins. One of the greatest benefits of foam versus liquid sclerotherapy is the foam’s ability to stick exclusively to the inside of the vein wall, ensuring there isn’t leakage into the surrounding blood flow or tissues. Following foam sclerotherapy for spider veins, the vast majority of patients are recommended to wear a set of compression garments to promote healthy healing and blood flow for at least 24 to 48-hours. Pressure stockings are advisable for two weeks following treatment, however, all of these recommendations do not interfere with a patient’s ability to return to their everyday schedules and activities. Safety Considerations Foam sclerotherapy as a treatment option for varicose or spider veins is extremely safe. This outpatient procedure avoids the need for a lengthy hospital stay, use of general anesthesia, or a difficult recovery period where a patient would need to care for significant incisions or follow-up scarring.