Spider veins and varicose veins are defects that affect the skin’s appearance and impair blood circulation. They appear as engorged tortuous veins with a bluish discoloration to the skin.
Varicose veins and spider veins are often treated through micro phlebectomy. This surgical intervention involves the removal of the diseased vein or sclerotherapy, which is the scarification of the affected vein.
As an alternative to invasive and complex surgical procedures, laser surgery is utilized to correct vein defects. If you contemplate having a laser treatment for your veins and wondering how long the recovery time is, read on to find out more.
How does laser surgery work for vein treatment
The laser treatment does not require any form of incision on the skin. The laser device is directed to the skin, penetrating the superficial veins and providing a regulated amount of energy that doesn’t damage surrounding tissues.
The heat provided by the laser coagulates blood within the affected veins and causes it to shrink and become thin. After this procedure, the coagulated blood would be eliminated by the body over 4 to 6 weeks.
Your laser treatment might be repeated depending on the number and size of veins treated. Typically, the laser procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes and depends on the number of veins that are being treated and the complexity of the situation.
How Long Is The Downtime For Laser Vein Surgery
Unlike other kinds of major invasive surgeries, the downtime associated with laser treatment is minimal. Depending on the complexity level of your surgery, you can resume normal activities within an hour after surgery.
If your situation is severe, the doctor may recommend staying off strenuous activities for a few days. You can experience discomfort in the area and have discoloration or purpling of the skin, which resolves as healing proceeds.
How long does it take for the vein to heal after the laser surgery
The recovery time for laser surgery depends on several factors such as the extent of treatment and the individual’s healing ability. After the laser therapy, the blood vessels involved begin to undergo some changes; this typically occurs over four to six weeks. It externally appears as a color change from a purple discoloration to a light red color before it finally disappears.
Your doctor might recommend that you use compression stockings during the recovery period to help improve blood circulation and prohibit blood clotting. A more severe problem and compromised vein health can considerably increase the healing time after surgery.
Final thoughts
Varicose veins are a fairly common defect found in individuals, and laser surgery is a safe and effective way to correct this. It is crucial that you have this procedure performed in a reputable establishment and follow all the necessary guidelines before and after the procedure to prevent any complications.
