Selfish Beauty 

When it comes to Beauty, it's okay to be Selfish!

Spider Vein Removal  

WHAT ARE SPIDER VEINS?


Spider veins are chronic and recurrent conditions. They typically cluster near the surface of the skin, especially on the legs and the face. Usually, they are purple or blue-red in color. The variety of treatments available will not offer a cure, but rather control of the condition. Treated vascular abnormalities typically do not return. However, your tendency towards developing new veins will not be relieved by this or any other form of treatment. While spider veins generally do not cause any major discomfort, they can be a cosmetic concern for many people.



WHAT CAUSES SPIDER VEINS?


Spider veins can be caused by weak or damaged valves in the veins. Your heart pumps oxygen- and nutrient-filled blood out to the body through your arteries. The blood returns to the heart through your veins. Blood from your lower body is pushed up, against the flow of gravity, as your leg muscles squeeze. Veins have valves that act as one-way flaps to prevent blood from flowing backward as it moves up your legs. If the valves become weak, blood can leak back into the veins and collect there; this problem is called venous insufficiency. When backed-up, blood makes the veins bigger; this weakens or damages the valves in the veins resulting in disorders like spider veins or varicose veins. 


            

Factors that contribute to weakening the valves in the blood vessels that ultimately results in spider veins are: 


  • Heredity – the condition is usually passed on through genes.
  • Age – individuals above 50 years of age are more susceptible, as the valves in the veins become weak over time
  • Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, hormone replacement therapy or taking birth control pills
  • Standing or sitting for long hours
  • History of blood clots
  • Obesity
  • Chronic exposure to the sun or extreme temperatures
  • Constipation
  • Wearing tight garments that put pressure on the abdomen
  • Any trauma or injury to the skin
  • Congested liver – sometimes impaired detoxification and liver stress put extra stress on the veins. 



TREATMENT 

We offer a relatively new vein treatment. The procedure is safe for any skin type and takes just a few minutes to complete. The microburst technology is delivered through an ultra fine (hair-thin) insulated needle. 


The treatment thermocoagulates the veins causing them to collapse. Our treatment instantly eliminates small spider veins and networks of veins known as telangiectasia. 


With great precision, our practitioners can target individual veins, allowing to minimize patient discomfort, and to lower the risk of damaging surrounding tissues and vessels. This treatment is considerably more advanced than laser technology because it is capable of pinpointing the damaged vein with greater precision, while keeping the surrounding skin unharmed.  








CONTRAINDICATIONS


  • Fever of 99℉ or higher
  • Pacemaker, or other internal electrical device
  • Epilepsy or history of seizures
  • Skin Cancer
  • Metal sensitivities or allergies
  • Heart conditions
  • Hemorrhagic trauma
  • Using blood thinners



WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE 

  • This is an office based procedure
  • The procedure itself takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes
  • Expect minimal discomfort during the treatment 
  • The number of veins treated in one session varies, depending on the size and location of the veins

POTENTIAL RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS


  • Bruising: May occur around the treated site and can last several days or weeks.

  • Blistering/Mild Skin Burn: May occur resulting from thermocoagulation treatment. Usually resolves in a few days, but may last a few weeks, especially after treatment of large areas.

  • Pain: The treated area may be tender to the touch and/or itchy after treatment. This discomfort is usually temporary.

  • Scabbing/Sloughing of Skin: The treated area may scab/slough, especially after treatment of large area. Usually resolves in a few weeks.

  • Swelling: Usually occurs after treatment. It usually resolves in a few days, but may last a few weeks, especially after treatment of large areas.



ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS


  • Because spider veins are generally a cosmetic issue, treatment is not mandatory. 
  • The other option is to receive no treatment at all.




POST TREATMENT GUIDELINES

    • Avoid prolonged sitting or standing

    • If you plan on sitting for more than 3 hours, try to get up and move around every hour.

    • Refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 2 weeks, however, walking is encouraged.

    • You may shower, but no tub baths, swimming, or hot tubs for the first week.

    • You may experience bruising, tenderness, swelling after a treatment. 

    • Arnica gel or cream may be used during your treatment process to speed the healing of bruises. Arnica does not require a prescription and can be purchased at Whole Foods and some local pharmacies. 

    • Avoid flying for 48-72 hours and long car trips (>2-3 hours) following the procedure. 

    • Avoid use of iron containing supplements during the first 4-6 weeks of your treatment protocol.

    • Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) regularly. 




                      COMPRESSION STOCKINGS INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICATION AND CARE


                      • Putting your stockings on at the start of your day, before swelling starts, is best. 
                      • The use of gloves is recommended to make the process easier.



                      Application:


                      1. Fold the stocking over once down to the heel, so that the length of the stocking is shortened in half. This will help get your foot and heel in place more easily. Remember, do not bunch or gather the stocking.

                      2. Insert foot and gently pull until you meet resistance as you secure the foot.

                      3. If your stocking doesn’t go entirely on the foot, use your donning gloves to gently move the fabric in an upward direction. Once the heel is in place, you can gently move the stocking in an upward motion to its full length. Use your donning gloves to smooth out any wrinkles. The top band should be approximately 2 fingers width from the top of the leg. 




                      Removal:


                      1. Remove stockings before going to bed, unless otherwise indicated by Dr. Schoonover and his care team. (Exception: the stocking must be worn overnight on the day of your  procedure.)

                      2. Use donning gloves to make stocking removal easier. Take hold of the stockings at the top band and peel downwards past the ankle. Never push downward, as this creates bunching and makes the stocking more difficult to remove.

                      3. With the palm of the hand, work the stocking over the heel and remove.




                      Care Recommendations:


                      • Wash your stockings every day. 
                      • You may machine wash on gentle cycle, using lukewarm water and a mild detergent. 
                      • For sheer stockings, hand washing is recommended. 
                      • To protect the garment during washing, a lingerie bag is recommended. 
                      • Rinse well and air dry. 
                      • Do not use bleach or fabric softeners and avoid tumble drying. 
                      • For best results with trouser socks, turn inside out before washing.  




                      Stockings with silicone band:


                      • For optimum performance of the silicone band, you may want to wipe it regularly with a clean cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol. This will remove skin oils and lint from clothing that could decrease the effectiveness of the silicone.




                      Important:


                      • Sharp fingernails, rings, and bracelets may cause damage when putting on and removing the stockings. 
                      • Do not cut or pull loose ends, which sometimes appear on the inside of the stockings.