If you’ve been dealing with prominent veins appearing on the surface of your skin, you’re not alone. As we age, these troublesome veins become more common, often showing up on the legs. Visible veins on the legs can put a damper on your confidence — whether you’re struggling with spider veins or varicose veins on the thighs and calves, Dr. Surya Challa can help you reclaim smooth skin and boost your body confidence in the process.
First, let’s discuss the difference between the common types of visible veins:
Varicose veins are twisted veins that may bulge above the skin and cause pain. They are usually blue, red or the color of your skin.
Spider veins, sometimes called thread veins, are smaller than varicose veins and closer to the surface. They are often visible under the skin but they do not cause bulging.
Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into potential treatments:
Sclerotherapy
A quick and minimally invasive treatment, sclerotherapy offers relief from small varicose veins as well as spider veins. This treatment works by injecting polidocanol into the targeted vein, causing it to constrict, close and eventually fade from view completely. Following treatment, your targeted veins should disappear within a few weeks, though some patients see optimal results after one month. Blood flow is re-routed to healthy, functioning veins, leaving you with smoother, younger-looking legs.
Venous Radiofrequency Ablation
Ideal for the treatment of venous disease and/or varicose veins, venous radiofrequency ablation is a safe, effective and minimally invasive solution that doesn’t require extensive downtime. During treatment, radiofrequency energy is used to heat and damage the walls of your varicose veins, closing them off completely. As with sclerotherapy, blood flow is then redirected to healthy veins. The treated veins will be ultimately absorbed by the body over time, disappearing from view.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy (Microphlebectomy)
Another option for treating varicose veins is ambulatory phlebotomy, also known as microphlebectomy, which can take as little as 30 minutes depending on the veins being treated. Before treatment begins, Dr. Challa may assess the health of your varicose veins using duplex ultrasound. During treatment, small incisions are made in the skin, and micro-hooks are used to remove the diseased vein tissue. Since ambulatory phlebotomy is performed under local anesthesia, the experience is relatively painless.
Youthful, smooth legs are just a consultation away! Call 757.819.7633 or request a consultation online to get started.