Which is better, laser or sclerotherapy for leg veins?

     I often am asked which is a better treatment for spider veins of the leg, laser or sclerotherapy? The answer is that both are useful tools in treating unsightly veins. You wouldn't use a screw driver to hammer a nail would you? Sclerotherapy is considered by many to be the "Gold Standard" in the treatment of unwanted spider and reticular veins of the leg. At NJ VeinCare and Aesthetics Center we use Asclera, an FDA approved drug for injecting into veins. It is a mild detergent that damages the wall of the vein, leading it to collapse and close. We also use an Nd:YAG laser for veins that are too small to inject. Laser light is absorbed by the blood in the vein, and the heat generated causes the veins to close. When properly used, the combination of the treatments can give excellent results. If you want to treat your unwanted veins, call us at 973-778-2222 for a no cost consultation.

Author
Gary B. Nackman, MD, FACS Gary Nackman, MD, FACS, is a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 30 years of experience helping women and men with venous disease and cosmetic concerns achieve healthy veins and skin. He founded the NJ Vein Care and Aesthetics Center in Clifton, New Jersey, to provide high-quality, one-on-one, patient-centered care in a welcoming, supportive environment. He's proud to be listed in the Consumers Research Council of America's "Guide to America's Top Surgeons."

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