Q. I have had many spider vein treatments over the years and they keep coming back. Why does this happen?

A. There are many different reasons this can occur. It may be that the source of the problem (reticular veins) was not treated. This also could be due to your genetic makeup. Spider veins may also be due to hormonal changes. In our practice, we see some patients that form veins very easy no matter what treatment they have. Thankfully, most people just form a few new veins once in a while.

Q. Can I be out in the sun during treatment?

A. Most of this depends on the treatment you are having done. If your doctor is doing intense pulse light (IPL) or laser therapy you should avoid sun exposure. This is because the sun produces a lot of melanin in your skin and competes with the laser and IPL wavelength. If this occurs, you may develop blisters or skin pigment problems. Even if you are doing only sclerotherapy, sun exposure can cause some darkening of the area treated.

Q. I have varicose veins that bother me very much. I just found out that I am two months pregnant. I am 32 years old and in good health. Should I wait or have my veins fixed now? I am afraid they will be worse during my pregnancy. This is my first pregnancy.

A. You are right; they will probably give you more problems during your pregnancy. However, you should wait to have anything done. If you have your treatment now, you are likely to form new veins during your pregnancy. Veins that occur after previous treatment are more difficult to take care of. After you deliver, you can take care of your varicose veins.

I would recommend that you wait until you are through having children if possible. Pregnancy causes varicose veins in those women that are susceptible.

Q. Will I have pain during the thermal ablation procedure?

A. There is minimal pain associated with this procedure. The doctor will use a numbing medication called tumescent. Most patients report feeling pressure and the procedure is well tolerated.

Q. How long will I need to take off from work for a thermal ablation?

A. One to two days off is generally all that is needed. A majority of patients have minimal discomfort after the procedure. Most patients resume normal activities within one week.

Air Travel Before & After Procedures

A. For a thermal ablation of the saphenous vein, we scan the patient 2-days post procedure and are free to fly under a 4-hour trip. For longer trips, we recommend at least a week. There really is no hard data to say how long the time should be. For a phlebectomy (removing superficial veins), you can fly the next day. For foam sclerotherapy, long trips should be avoided for a week unless you can get up and move frequently. We recommend wearing compression stockings and doing calf muscle pumps (moving foot up & down frequently).

If you have a question, please Ask Dr. Bush!