Cosmetic vs. Medical Vein Treatments
Vein treatments are used to do two things: (1) Improve the appearance of unsightly and/or bulging varicose veins and spider veins that appear on your face, arms, chest, and legs, and (2) relieve discomfort, bruising, or ulceration (sores) caused by varicose veins.
Whether your visible veins are a cosmetic or medical issue, it is in your best interest to see a medical vein specialist for an evaluation and possible treatment. Let’s talk about some of the most popular cosmetic and medical vein treatments, and where you can go to find out what can be done to get smooth, clear skin again.
What Are Cosmetic Vein Treatments?
Cosmetic vein treatment generally addresses spider veins, which are tiny, thin, flat, superficial veins that have a web-like or scribble-type pattern. They tend to be hereditary, and they are usually not accompanied by pain and swelling (as varicose veins can be).
Examples of cosmetic vein treatments include sclerotherapy and laser treatments. These solutions essentially close off the problematic vein, so the body eventually absorbs the vein – and the blood is re-routed to adjacent veins instead.
How Are Medical Vein Treatments Different?
If problematic varicose veins develop due to poor blood circulation, the treatment may be a bit different. Treatments aimed at these veins include a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Lifestyle changes
- Elevating the legs
- Wearing compression stockings
- Sclerotherapy
- Endovenous ablation using laser or radiofrequency treatment
Our veins all have tiny valves that help to push the “used” blood back to the heart for refreshment and recirculation. When the valves don’t work very well, the blood pools up, particularly in the legs – causing pressure to build up in the veins. This leads to bulging veins.
If varicose veins become uncomfortable, you may feel pain, cramping, warmth, and changes in your skin texture and color. A major problem is when superficial varicose veins break through the skin, causing skin ulcers.
Cosmetic and Medical Vein Specialist in Kansas City, MO
If you have unsightly veins anywhere on your body, have yourself evaluated by a doctor who is specially trained in diagnosing and treating vein disease. The medical team here at Missouri Vein Specialists specializes in cosmetic and medical vein treatments, eliminating and greatly reducing spider veins and painful varicose veins.
Our head physician, Dr. Scott Darling, is certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and can perform minimally invasive treatment options for your vein problem. Since 1999, we have produced incredible results that make our patients look and feel good.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Darling, contact our friendly staff by calling us at (816) 792-3400 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you enjoy clear skin again!
