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LASER LEG VEIN REMOVAL & VERICOSE VEIN TREATMENT
Olympic Dermatology and Laser Clinic was one of the first
offices in the Northwest to offer the VascuLight and Lume 1
Intense Pulse Light (IPL)/ Nd:YAG laser systems. Nationally
noted as a "Center for Excellence," our expertise coupled with
this innovated technology can now offer you varicose vein treatment options
unavailable in the past.
What is the VascuLight and Lume 1 Systems?
This breakthrough technology utilizes laser light at
a near infrared wavelength (Nd: YAG) or broad- band intense
pulsed light (IPL) . This is not the conventional laser
mechanics found in other devices. Rather, these systems use
innovative laser physics and advanced computer software to
successfully treat a full range of vascular structures, from
deep and very large veins and birthmarks to shallow lesions and
tiny spider veins.
Unlike other non-invasive techniques, these
systems successfully "zap" large blood vessels up to 3 mm in
diameter.
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Photos courtesy of
Jerome Garden, MD |
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Photos courtesy of
David Wilder, MD |
How does the Lume 1/ VascuLight work on veins?
With its proprietary Multiple Synchronized Pulsing capabilities,
these systems selectively heat different sizes of broken blood
vessels at different depths below the skin's surface with
excellent results. This enables us to treat complex and
interwoven networks of big twisted vessels and webs of small
capillaries with pinpoint control. One to three laser pulses can
achieve complete closure and sealing of the damaged vessels.
What will happen during the treatment? |
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After the consent is obtained, photographs are usually taken.
Before treatment begins, Dr. Brazil sets the laser parameters
according to your skin color, the type of vein or condition
being treated, and its location on your body. Then a clear gel
is placed on the site to be treated. This helps focus the light
energy and cool the skin. You will be given dark glasses to
shield your eyes from the bursts of light as the laser light is
applied. The only sensation experienced during the treatment is
a sting, like the snapping of a rubber band or a sharp pinch. By
using ice and cold gel on the skin to be treated, discomfort in
minimized.
How many treatment sessions will it take?
Depending on the type and severity of the condition being
treated, Dr. Brazil may recommend anywhere from one to four
treatment sessions to achieve the desired outcome. An individual
session generally lasts about an hour from arrival to departure.
Repeat treatments, when necessary, are usually done at 6 weeks
intervals.
How much improvement will I have?
Some immediate improvement is typically visible, with the
treated blood vessels disappearing over two to three weeks.
Complications, such as blisters, scarring, bleeding and pigment
loss, seldom occur. Most patients return to their regular
routines quickly with virtually no after-care required. However,
you may experience some redness or bruising around the treated
area. This usually goes away in just a few days to several
weeks. A 70% improvement is a reasonable overall response.
What type of post-treatment care is necessary?
Care for the treated areas gently. We will recommend a gel you
can use for discomfort as needed. Avoid sun exposure for about 3
months. You will be given written instructions at the time of
treatment.
Is this procedure covered by insurance? |
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Insurance reimbursement varies from state to state and carrier
to carrier. Most insurance companies do not offer reimbursement
for cosmetic conditions. It's best to consult your individual
carrier for more information on your specific type of treatment.
I've had other treatments for varicose
and spider veins, and sometimes the problem comes back over
time. Does this treatment offer a permanent solution for these
conditions?
This procedure provides complete and virtually permanent closure
of damaged and ruptured veins, both large and small, both near
the surface and further below it. Since the vein is completely
closed, blood cannot flow back into it; consequently, over time
the vein simply disintegrates and is absorbed by the body. A
treated vessel is permanently destroyed. The appearance of new
vessels, however, cannot be prevented so periodic touch-ups are
expected..
I spend a lot of time outdoors, so I
usually have a pretty good tan. Can I still be treated with the
laser energy of the VascuLight/ Lume 1 systems?
One of the advances of these systems is their ability to treat
virtually all skin types and colors, at any time of the year.
This is due to its long, near infrared laser wavelength that
easily passes through melanin, the material that gives color to
the skin. A tan does increase the risk of a burn so one should
avoid tanning whenever possible.
How can I prevent varicose veins and
spider veins in the future?
If your job or other parts of your life require you spend a lot
of time standing up, consider buying some kind of cushioning
floor mat that will take some of the pressure off your legs.
Placing these mats by the sink where you do dishes, or at the
stove, or at a cash register where you work, can help alleviate
vein problems and their symptoms--and make your legs feel less
tired as well! You might also consider wearing special hosiery
to help improve circulation.Call for a FREE cosmetic
consultation with
Dr. Brazil's Laser/Skincare Specialists
360.459.1700
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