How long does it take to recover from laser vein treatment?
Laser vein treatment is a highly precise way to treat varicose veins, which are the large, blue or purple ropy veins most commonly present on the legs. Laser treatment uses tiny focused light beams that emit heat to damage the abnormal vein, causing it to close, and reroute blood through healthier veins.
If you are considering laser vein treatment, you may have a few questions, one of which is, how long does it take to recover from laser treatment for varicose veins? In this article, we will go into details about what the recovery period is like for patients who undergo laser vein treatment.
Immediately After Treatment
Laser vein treatment is an outpatient procedure performed in as little as an hour, depending on the area of skin needing treatment. Vein doctors encourage patients to walk immediately after laser vein treatment. This helps circulate the blood and prevents clots. You should avoid strenuous exercise and activities, but walking and light movements are highly encouraged.
Soon after the treatment, you will be free to go home and rest. We recommend that on the day of your treatment, you take the day off work and other commitments.
After Getting Home
You may notice some bruising on your legs, which is normal. It should go away in a couple of weeks. Apply ice to your legs for 20 minutes at a time to control swelling. Check the treatment site regularly for signs of infection, such as pain, warmth, and oozing, and avoid getting it wet for at least 48 hours after treatment.
The doctor will likely recommend that you wear compression stockings for improved circulation and to prevent blood clots from forming. Keep your legs raised above heart level and avoid sitting or standing for extended periods. You will be encouraged to take short walks daily, several times per day. High-impact activities and heavy lifting should be avoided. Do not expose your legs to direct and extended sunlight for two weeks, as it can lead to hyperpigmentation.
For a more comfortable recovery, the doctor may advise that you take pain medication. Doing these can help ensure that your recovery period is kept as short as possible.
How Long Does Laser Vein Treatment Recovery Take?
The recovery period for laser vein treatment is pretty short. While you should avoid strenuous activities and exercise for several days, you are free to go about your normal routine within a couple of days. Let your doctor know if you experience increasing pain or symptoms of infection.
Laser Vein Treatment in Kansas City and Marshall, MO
At Missouri Vein Specialists, we offer the highly advanced Cutera laser vein treatment for spider veins and varicose veins. Cutera laser vein treatment uses heat to destroy the problem veins, and afterward, we use the Zimmer cooling device to prevent skin blistering or damage. The cooling device makes the procedure so much more comfortable than other laser treatments and outperforms other cooling devices.
Dr. Scott Darling, our board-certified vein surgeon, is highly experienced in a variety of treatments for vein issues. To schedule a consultation, call our vein clinic today at 816-792-3400 or use our convenient appointment request form.
