While Varicose veins are as aesthetically unpleasant as Spider veins, they may also cause physical problems. Varicose veins are caused by abnormal valves that become weak, causing the blood to pool in the veins, particularly when you are standing. Symptoms include aching, swelling, heaviness, cramping, burning and itching, and varicose veins are known to burst. While injections are sometimes an effective treatment for smaller varicose veins, REFRESH MD’s preferred methods of choice, endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and ambulatory phlebectomy, have significantly lower incidences of recurrence and side effects.

Endovenous laser treatment is used to deliver laser energy directly inside the vein, the source of the problem. A small sterile laser fiber is inserted into this vein under local anaesthesia and positioned under ultrasound guidance. Laser energy is then delivered directly inside the vein to close it completely. Treatment of varicose veins with this laser technique does not cause circulation problems because nearby veins take over and the circulation is actually improved.

The ambulatory phlebectomy technique involves removing veins through tiny incisions usually created by puncturing the skin with a needle. After a few weeks to months, these puncture marks are totally invisible. Best of all, patients are able to return to work the next day as opposed to the one or two weeks required with traditional methods using larger incisions.

If you want to enjoy the look and feel of your legs once again, or if you seek comfort and pain relief, your REFRESH MD doctor will help you to determine the procedure and schedule of treatments that’s right for you.