Spider Vein Removal Myths Busted
Despite the fact that spider veins affect so many of us, there’s still a swirl of myths and rumors surrounding them. At Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center, we recognize that helping our patients to be informed about their conditions and treatments can lead to safer and more effective results. That’s why we’ve decided to put to rest some of the most popular myths floating around about spider vein removal—and to tell you the real deal instead.
Myth #1: There’s no way to remove spider veins without piercing the skin.
Fact: Thanks to modern technology, many patients can bypass the older methods of surgery and injections and opt for laser treatments instead. This procedure uses precise laser light which targets your spider veins but leaves the skin above them unharmed. That’s because the frequency of light we use is attracted to the red pigment in your veins, and as a result, your spider veins disappear while you enjoy a distinct lack of downtime.
Myth #2: Laser spider vein removal is only safe for certain skin tones.
Fact: While it is true that not all lasers jive well with every skin type, it depends on the type of laser that’s used. Our laser spider vein removal treatments only use equipment that is safe and effective for all skin types. However, it’s important to ensure that the skin being treated hasn’t seen sun exposure in the two to four weeks before your appointment. We also preface every laser treatment with a consultation, which gives you an opportunity to ask about any concerns you might have and to opt for using a test area to see how your skin will react to the treatment.
Myth #3: Spider vein treatments aren’t healthy because they’re removing veins your body needs.
Fact: Your body’s network of blood vessels is extremely extensive. In fact, if you were to lay all the blood vessels in the body end-to-end, they would stretch for 60,000 miles. While you may only be able to see a small number of spider veins, rest assured that there are plenty more blood vessels beneath the surface that are ready to pick up the slack.
Myth #4: Laser spider vein removal is an intrusive and time-consuming process.
Fact: Vein removal treatments are actually easier than many patients expect. Each session typically takes fifteen to thirty minutes (depending on the number of veins that are being treated), and most patients only need between one and three laser treatments for thorough results. Plus, remember since laser vein removal requires little or no downtime, it’s much easier to fit into your busy schedule than other more invasive options.
Myth #5: The results of spider vein removal aren’t permanent.
Fact: When a spider vein has been successfully treated, the vein is absorbed and discarded naturally by your body. However, other veins in the same area can become spider veins and begin to show themselves beneath your skin, which to some patients looks like their original veins have returned. The bad news is that there’s no cure for the weak vein valves that cause spider veins, so if you’re predisposed to unwanted veins you’re likely to see more appear, but the good news is that laser treatments are simple enough that you can get your veins treated before they become larger and require more invasive procedures.
Despite all the myths and misconceptions, laser spider vein removal has given patients all over the country the confidence to show off their legs once again (or, in some cases, for the first time). Unwanted veins can affect men and women of any age, but by offering the latest minimally-invasive laser treatments, we’re ready to help you clear them up in no time. To start discussing your treatment options, schedule a consultation at Laser Lights. Or, for more helpful info and our latest specials, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.