Services

Fraxel

YOU, YOUNGER

Fraxel is a non-invasive laser therapy providing a wide array of treatment options to address many forms of aging, customized to each patient's needs and concerns, many requiring minimal recovery time. It's the perfect solution for people who want their skin to look younger, but don’t want to look plastic or fake and can’t afford a lot of time away from work or their social life.

Most of us wish we could slow down the effects aging has on our looks – and maybe even get a few years back in the process. Fraxel® is proven laser technology that can help reverse the visible effects of aging, naturally helping you look as young as you feel. With Fraxel, change isn’t drastic or scary – it’s you, just younger.

Fraxel is effective on:

Fine lines and wrinkles – like crow’s feet and brow lines
Surface scarring – erasing effects of acne and other scarring
Pigmentation – minimizing the appearance of age spots
Sun damage – helping heal dangerous skin damage
Actinic Keratosis (AK) – a common pre-cancerous skin condition

FRAXEL BY THE NUMBERS

In science and medicine, sometimes statistics can tell a bigger-picture story. Some impressive numbers:

Fraxel is available in more than 80 countries worldwide
Over 2,500 physicians offer Fraxel treatments
Over 800,000 procedures have been performed
More than 55 peer-reviewed articles have been written
Over 45 patents have been issued on unique fractional laser technology
Fraxel received aesthetic clearance in November 2003

THE FRAXEL DIFFERENCE

WRINKLES: As you age, your skin's collagen and elastin simply break down faster than your body can rebuild them. The slowed remodeling of these skin-tightening proteins causes your skin to thin, droop and lose elasticity—which often leads to winkles, furrows and fine lines.
If you have wrinkles on your face or around your eyes, you've probably had a wonderful life, rich with laughter and emotional experiences. After all, expressions like smiling, laughing, pondering and squinting naturally involve the contraction of muscles—which can lead to wrinkles, furrows and fine lines.
AGE / SUNSPOTS: Age spots are due more to sunning than aging. These spots—also called sunspots, brown spots or liver spots—are flat, uneven dark patches on the face, neck, chest, hands and arms and other areas that are regularly exposed to the sun. Though usually harmless, these blotchy brownish patches can make you look and feel older than you really are.
In the sun, your body reacts by producing a pigment called melanin to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, your skin may overreact by producing too much melanin. That increased pigmentation can result in age spots, which fall into a broad medical category called "pigmented lesions."
MELASMA: Melasma—which is most common in women and affects about 45 million people worldwide—appears as irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and nose. Like most other pigmented lesions, Melasma is not dangerous, but it can be a self-confidence crusher, prompting many women to hide behind a mask of make-up.
Melasma is most common during hormonal fluctuations associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. So instead of celebrating the beauty of motherhood, women with Melasma must wear what's often called "the mask of pregnancy.
ACTINIC KERATOSIS (AK): Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a common pre-cancerous skin condition that affects approximately 10 million Americans each year. AK lesions typically appear as a scaly or crusty growth in areas that are frequently exposed to sunlight. People who have fair complexions are more prone to AKs than are people with medium or dark skin.
Although Actinic Keratosis is considered a pre-cancerous condition, it is very treatable. Standard therapies include topical ointments, freezing, surgical excision and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) . Now physicians are increasingly turning to lasers, such as Fraxel technology, to effectively treat AKs.
SKIN RESURFACING: Over the years, your skin is exposed to sun, air pollution, stress, fatigue and lifestyle factors such as smoking. It all can affect your skin's texture, color and tightness.
To resurface your skin and correct imperfections, there are many options from chemical peels to dermabrasion. But unlike other remedies that scrape, peel and cut the surface of your skin, Fraxel laser treatment has been cleared by the FDA to safely, gently and effectively resurface your skin from the inside out. That means improved texture, more even tone and smoother skin—all with minimal risks, and without discomfort and prolonged downtime of other procedures.
ACNE / SURGICAL SCARS: Scars are depressions or indentations in the skin that occur after a medical condition such as acne or after a surgical incision. Especially when they're on the face or other visible areas, scars can carry the stigma of adolescent acne long after the acne is gone, or they can serve as unpleasant reminders of a past surgery.
Acne scars can occur as the skin heals from pimples, whiteheads and blackheads that form when oil, bacteria and dead cells get stuck below the skin's surface. Acne scars are typically indented marks or raised, red areas that sometimes give the skin a wavy appearance. Surgical scars, meanwhile, form naturally as skin heals from an incision.

Detailed info

THE DETAILS

Fraxel is an advanced technology – but how it works shouldn’t be a mystery. Here are some details on the treatment and the science behind it. Remember, every patient’s circumstances are different, so for specifics, it’s best to talk to your Fraxel physician one-on-one.

Fraxel at Work

"Smart scanning" hand piece ensures consistency and safety

Fractional lasers penetrate top skin layers

Fraxel light energy stimulates collagen, and resurfaces the top skin layer

Your skin's natural rejuvenation process smoothes wrinkles and scars by stimulating collagen

Treatment Facts and Guidelines

Duration: Fraxel treatments usually last between 15-45 minutes
Treatment Regimen: Most patients see the best results with 1-5 Fraxel treatments
Results: Fraxel works with your body’s natural skin cells, so results typically take 1-3 weeks to take effect.
Comfort: Most Fraxel patients report the sensation of a "light sunburn" immediately after treatment, but treatment plans can vary, so ask your physician about the specifics of your treatment.

Safety and Side Effects

With a track record of over 800,000 treatments, Fraxel technology is proven to be safe and effective for multiple indications. But because skin types and conditions can vary, some side effects are possible.

THE MOST ADVANCED TRACK RECORD—FOR ADVANCED SKIN SCIENCE

Fraxel laser treatment removes years from the skin's appearance—without the degree of risks and side effects commonly associated with other procedures. That's because our team of scientists, physicians, clinicians and engineers are dedicated to developing safe, effective solutions for rejuvenating your skin. The Fraxel track record speaks for itself:

Excellent safety record with more than 800,000 treatments performed
Extensive clinical and tissue research
Ongoing clinical trials in our state-of-the-art Solta Medical Aesthetic Center located within Solta corporate headquarters
Ongoing testing and research by our on-site biomedical engineering team
Safe and effective on most skin types, on and off the face, for men and women

When you get a Fraxel treatment, you can feel confident you're receiving a safe, effective procedure. Fraxel is a treatment you can trust.

Fraxel repair

Potential side effects include prolonged redness, swelling, oozing, petichiae, delayed wound healing, scarring, crusting or scabbing, infection from bacterial, viral or fungal agents, pigmentary changes, herpes reactivation and acne flare-up.

Fraxel restore DUAL 1550/1927 and Fraxel refine

Potential side effects include prolonged redness, swelling, blistering, scarring, infection, pigmentary changes (hyperpigmentation) , herpes reactivation and acne flare-up.

FAQ

How is a Fraxel treatment different from other laser skin rejuvenation procedures?

Traditionally, two kinds of laser treatment have been available for cosmetic skin treatment: ablative and non-ablative. Typical ablative treatments, which use a high temperature to vaporize unwanted tissue, can be effective—but with significant side effects and several weeks of recovery time. Non-ablative treatments, meanwhile, have very few side effects and low downtime, but they commonly require numerous treatments to produce more modest results.

Fraxel laser treatment delivers the potency of ablative treatments with the gentle safety of non-ablative lasers. So you get the best of both worlds: dramatic results and less downtime.

The Fraxel family of products has three treatments, all delivering remarkable results safely with fast recovery. The three Fraxel treatments fall into two categories:

Non-ablative
- Fraxel re:fine® treatment—for prevention and maintenance
- Fraxel 1550 treatment—for mild to severe skin damage
- Fraxel 1927 treatment—for mild to severe skin damage

As non-ablative laser treatments, Fraxel non-ablative treatments can improve mild to moderate skin damage with little to no downtime.

Ablative
- Fraxel re:pair® SST treatment—for the correction of moderate-severe photoaging, usually in a single treatment

Fraxel re:pair SST treatment is a revolutionary new way to address the most severe signs of skin damage—without the degree of risks, complications and prolonged downtime of other ablative laser procedures. Fraxel re:pair SST treatment uses a high-intensity carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to vaporize unwanted tissue, but thanks to pioneered fractional technology, the treatment delivers dramatic results with significantly faster recovery time than non-fractional treatments—all in 1-2 treatments.

What is a Fraxel laser treatment?

Fraxel is a revolutionary laser treatment that helps you to remove years from your appearance. Fraxel is the pioneer of "fractional photothermolysis", a technology in which thousands of microscopic laser columns - each just one-tenth the diameter of a hair follicle - treat a fraction of the skin at a time without affecting the surrounding tissue. These laser columns stimulate the production of younger, smoother, healthier skin to replace damaged tissue.

How is a Fraxel re:pair SST treatment different from a Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment?

Both Fraxel re:pair SST treatment and Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment use fractional technology, but in different ways. As an ablative procedure, Fraxel re:pair SST treatment uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to vaporize microscopic columns of tissue deep within the skin. Fraxel re:pair SST treatment is a more aggressive procedure and is used to treat the most severe signs of skin damage. Results are achieved in 1-2 treatments and wound care recovery time (usually 24-72 hours) is generally longer than other Fraxel treatments. Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment, on the other hand, is a non-ablative technique that intensively treats older skin cells while leaving the skin’s protective barrier intact. This results in less downtime and need for post-treatment wound care.

How long do the positive effects of Fraxel re:pair SST treatment last?

The results of Fraxel re:pair SST treatment are both immediate and progressive. Soon after the treatment, the surface of your skin will feel softer, look brighter and show more even tone. The next 3 to 6 months will bring more improvement as the deeper layers of the skin continue to heal.

What side effects should I expect after a Fraxel re:pair SST treatment and what are the risks?

Depending on the aggressiveness of your treatment, there might be some pinpoint bleeding following the procedure, as well as some oozing for up to 48 hours until the wounds close. The most common side effects are edema (swelling), which usually subsides after a week, and erythema (redness), which may last up to a month, depending on the aggressiveness of treatment. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking, oozing and crusting. As with all ablative laser procedures, there is an elevated risk of delayed wound healing, infection, pigmentary changes (hyperpigmentation) and/or scarring. Please see our Commitment to Safety statement for a list of potential side effects and complications.

How is Fraxel re:pair SST treatment performed and does the treatment hurt?

First, your skin will be cleansed. Then, 60 to 90 minutes prior to treatment, a topical numbing agent will be applied to the treatment area. Your physician may also choose to give you another medication, such as Ativan, to relax you. Most patients describe an increased sensation of heat during the treatment, and there may be some discomfort. However, unlike the experience in traditional CO2 treatments, you will feel quite comfortable immediately after a Fraxel re:pair SST treatment. The procedure takes approximately 20-30 minutes for a full face.

What are the benefits of Fraxel re:pair SST treatment?

Significant results in a single treatment
Smoother, more even skin tone and texture
Softening of deep frown lines and wrinkles
Improved appearance of redness caused by sun damage

How does a Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment work?

Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 laser treatment targets aging and sun-damaged skin with microscopic laser columns that penetrate deep into your skin to expedite your body’s remodeling of collagen. And since the laser treats only a fraction of tissue at a time, it leaves the surrounding tissue intact, which promotes very rapid healing. Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatment resurfaces your skin by stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin cells from the inside out.

Video

How Fraxel really works

Before and After

Fraxel^® before and after photos

feel the differance today

call now 503-513-5533

IPL Laser / Photo Rejuvenation

IPL Laser

Photorejuvenation is a skin treatment that uses lasers, intense pulsed light, thermal methods, or Photodynamic therapy to treat some skin conditions and remove wrinkles arising from photoaging. The process induces controlled wounds on the skin, prompting it to heal itself by creating new cells. This process reverses the effects of photoaging to a certain extent by removing wrinkles

IPL- Intense Pulsed Light

laser treatments are most commonly used for:

Lightening and removing “sun spots”, “age spots”, and brown blotches on the face, neck, chest, hands and other areas of the body
Lightening and reducing redness, rosacea, dilated blood vessels and “broken” blood vessels on the face, neck and chest
Helping to control flushingIt also has a lesser effect of improving skin texture through collagen stimulation and improves pore size minimally by temporarily reducing oiliness

What is IPL?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. This is a skin rejuventation technology that stimulates new collagen, reduces fine lines, and increases skin elasticity. This is the treatment that helps you remove brown and red spots and any other discoloration cuased by sun damage or broken capillaries. IPL treatment has no downtime and it can help the patient minimize pore size and acne scars, reduce discoloration, smooth rough skin, erase broken capillaries, treat rosacea. IPL may be used to treat other areas than just your face. It is successfully used on neck, chest, back, hands, arms, and legs.

How does it work?

Intense flash of light passes through the top layer of the skin and further penetrates to the deeper layer (collagen level, dermis). New collagen is being formed resulting in a tighter and healthier skin. Typically 4 to 6 treatments are recommended to achieve the best results. Sun exposure should be avoided after IPL treatment.

IPL is the gold standard for photorejuvenation. This FDA-cleared,patented technology provides dramatic results for a variety ofbenign conditions, including age spots, sun-induced reckles,symptoms of rosacea, birthmarks, unsightly veins, acne scarringand other blemishes — even unwanted hair.
Why choose IPL over other treatment options? Laser resurfacingand deep chemical peels often send patients into hiding, as theywait for redness and swelling to subside. Microdermabrasionaddresses skin irregularities, but is not effective against allcomplexion problems including redness, flushing and brokencapillaries. Face lifts and other surgical procedures are far tooinvasive for younger patients and "baby boomers" who simply wantto revitalize their appearance without recovery downtime.

The visible signs of aging cannot be fully avoided, but can bedramatically minimized. The key is to do it as gently as possible. Asfar as the skin is concerned there are two types of aging — intrinsicand extrinsic. Intrinsic aging involves the inevitable; as we growolder, our skin naturally becomes thinner and drier. Diminishedamounts of collagen makes the skin less elastic. What used tobounce back begins to sag. Static, deep wrinkles may beginappearing. The rate of these events is genetically determined foreach person; the process first becomes noticeable between theages of 30 and 35.
Extrinsic aging results from exposure to the environment. Extrinsicaging is the critical element in determining who looks older oryounger than their biological age. Exposure to sunlight is a keycontributor to extrinsic aging. Photoaging occurs when elastin and acollagen breakdown are not replaced, causing fine lines andwrinkles to intensify. Photoaging also causes pigment changes withdevelopment of age spots (sun-induced freckles) and uneven skintone. Spider veins and dilated capillaries are another sign ofphotoaged skin.
Lifestyle choices also have an impact on extrinsic aging. Cigarettesmoking contributes to the breakdown of elastin and collagen andimpairs the body's healing capacity.

To schedule a free consultation, please call - (503) 513-5533

You may also email your questions and concerns: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Detailed info

What is IPL and how does it work?

Intense Pulsed Light is a treatment that uses light to absorb melanin (the dark pigment in your hair and skin) and haemoglobin (the red colour in your blood vessels). This light converts to heat, which damages the target cells without disrupting the skins surface. This is used as a non-invasive treatment for unwanted hair and many skin conditions.

What can IPL treat?

Flat, benign pigmented lesions (freckles, sunspots and general pigmentation)
Facial vascular lesions (spider veins, red spots and broken capillaries)
Diffuse redness, rosacea and red scarring
Poikiloderma (redness, pigmentation and a spotty look to the neck and/or décolletage)
Unwanted dark facial and body hair
Uneven skin colouring

SundamageContraindications (reasons why IPL may not be suitable for you)

Recent sunburn
Unprotected sun exposure or solarium use 4 weeks prior to treatment
Pregnancy
History of seizures
Severe dermatitis or eczema (within the treatment area)
Active infections
Roaccutane use in the last 6 months
Herpes 1 or 2 (within the treatment area)
Very dark skin
Removing hair by the root e.g. waxing or tweezing 4 weeks prior to treatment (hair removal only)
Photo sensitising medications are best avoided

Potential Complications:

Unfortunately, there are some potential complications with IPL treatments. At Academy Facial Plastics we perform test spots within 3 days of your actual treatment, to allow an accurate evaluation of the skins response. This significantly reduces potential complications, which include:

Prolonged redness and swelling lasting up to 4 days may occur
Darker patches of pigment on the skin may occur a couple of weeks after treatment
This can last from 2 weeks up to 1 year
However there is a special cream we can use to reduce the pigment
You are more at risk of this occurring if you have a darker skin type (this is not the immediate darkening of pigment we expect when treating pigmentation)
Whiter patches on the skin can occur
This can last 2 weeks up to 1 year though also has the potential to be permanent
You are more at risk of this occurring if you have a darker skin type
Blistering rarely occurs and will usually settle within 2 hours with application of ice. If you do get a blister, it is important that you don't pick it as it may leave a scar.

How will my skin react after the IPL treatment?

Most patients will experience a sunburn like sensation that lasts 2 to 5 hours and is often associated with mild to moderate redness. The treated area is generally sensitive to heat for 2 days following treatment.
After hair removal the skin may appear spotty, this is inflammation caused from the heat absorbed in the hair follicle and can last 2 to 24 hours.
After treatment of pigmented lesions the lesion will go darker sometimes almost black, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or it will just gradually fade.
After treatment of vascular lesions they will either disappear immediately or appear grey or purplish in colour. Diffuse redness immediately appears a lot redder then gradually lightens within 2-3 weeks. Vascular treatments generally require 3 weekly treatments for best results.

Pre and Post treatment recommendations:

Pre treatment.

Discontinue sun exposure 4 weeks prior to your treatment.
Do not use fake tan 1-2 weeks prior to your treatment.
Use an SPF 30 daily.
If having IPL hair removal, do not wax, tweeze or pluck the hair for 4 weeks prior to your treatment.
Shaving or depilatory creams are fine and you will need to shave the treatment site before your IPL session.
If you have a history of herpes close to the area being treated, it is recommended that you take antiviral medication before the treatment. (This will be available from the chemist).

Post treatment.

A sunburn-like sensation is expected for about 2-5 hours after the treatment. If this is uncomfortable apply cold compresses or ice to the treated area.
Your skin maybe temperature sensitive for the following 2 days, so do not use very hot water or your shower or bath.
Please protect you skin from the sun!. Do not exfoliate the skin for 1 week after the treatment.
Your skin may be more sensitive to certain skin care products so please use the products provided to you.
Do not pick blisters or skin crusting as this may lead to a scar!
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the practice.

Is your skin suitable for IPL treatment?

In order to select the correct skin type for IPL treatment, the table below is used to classify skin according to its melanin (pigment) content and the skins reaction to the sun. The lighter the skin type, the more suitable it is for IPL treatment.

Skin Type	Classification	Colour	Indication for IPL
l	Always burns easily and never tans	White	Best skin for IPL treatment
ll	Burns easily and tans minimally	White	Good skin for IPL treatment
lll	Sometimes burns and tans gradually	White	Good skin for IPL treatment
lV	Burns minimally and always tans	Moderate	Acceptable skin for IPL treatment
V+	Rarely burns, naturally dark skin	Dark Brown +	Not recommended for IPL treatment

Photo-rejuvenation information

Treatment of benign pigmented lesions generally requires 1-3 treatments performed approximately every 7-28 days or once all the darkened cells have sloughed off. A 70-90% reduction of pigmentation can be expected. Recommended skin care and strict sun protection help to maintain the results for much longer. Visible improvements are seen with each treatment.

Region	Time Between Sessions
Face	7-10 days
Neck	2 weeks
Décolletage	2 weeks
Arms	3-4 weeks
Hands	3-4 weeks
Back	3-4 weeks

Vascular lesions or diffuse redness generally requires 3-4 treatments at weekly intervals to achieve the best results. This is so we can progressively destroy the vessels without damaging the surrounding skin. Best results are seen 3 weeks after the last treatment.Photo-rejuvenation treatments will also stimulate the production of collagen. Many patients find that their skin feels firmer, smoother and looks clearer after a course of treatments.

FAQ

Wht is IPL Photo Rejuvenation?

IPL Skin Rejuvenation is indicated for the cosmetic reduction of sun-induced skin damage and aging, including superficial pigmentation (brown spots) and telangectasias (broken blood vessels). Practically any part any area can be treated mild to moderate sun damaged skin, including face, neck, chest, back and hands.

How does it work?

All light based Skin Rejuvenation treatments work by converting light energy from the IPL to heat the treated area. This heat stimulates the formation of collagen and elastin which tighten the skin, lightens pigmentation, reduces telangectasias, and ultimately - after a series of treatments – improves over-all skin tone, texture, and appearance.

What is the treatment like?

During treatments, a mild warming sensation of the skin is noticed. Immediately after treatment, mild redness and slight swelling of the skin may be present. This will typically disappear over the next hour or so. Treatments of the same area are typically done after 3-4 weeks. Typically, a minimum of 5-6 treatments are required for optimum results.

What can I expect before and after treatment?

Before Your Treatment
Avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, or sunless tanning creams for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment. Patients with a history of excessive hyperpigmentation may use a skin lightening agent or topical hydroquinone 2 weeks prior to treatment in the proposed treatment area.

After Your Treatment
A broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock, SFP 30 or greater, should be applied to the treated area(s) whenever exposed to the sun. If persistent redness, swelling and/or discomfort are noticed, apply a cold compress or ice pack intermittently. Avoid exposure to heat - such as hot tub or sauna - until the discomfort has completely resolved. If symptoms do not improve, or worsen, contact us immediately. If you notice blistering, crusting, drainage, or any other symptoms that concern you, contact us immediately.

What should I look for in a laser practitioner?

The treatment should be performed by a registered nurse (RN) or physician who's trained to operate a laser. Different treatment choices must be made for each patient. Side effects such as skin discoloration can result if the laser is operated by an inexperienced practitioner. At Kaiser Permanente, we provide only laser trained RNs or physicians to deliver high-quality care to our patients.

Are there any risks?

IPL Photo Rejuvenation is a safe procedure but there are some risks. Some people may experience the following:

Burns: Blisters and burns are rare but occasionally occur. Very rarely, burns may become infected.
Scarring: Objectionable scarring is very rare, but scars are possible.
Pigmentation: Pigmentary changes may occur - either darker or lighter than your natural skin color. They usually resolve spontaneously but may take several months to resolve.

Who should not get these treatments?

Avoid laser treatments in pregnancy because no testing has been done.

Are there any side effects?

The main side effects are mild, temporary swelling, redness, an accentuation of the brown spots, crusting, and an occasional bruise or small superficial blister (like a sunburn blister). There are rare other side effects which your laser center will review with you in your consent form.

I am interested, what is the next step?

To schedule a free consultation, please call - (503) 513-5533
You may also email your questions and concerns: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Video

IPL Hair Removal vs Laser Hair Removal

IPL Photorejuvenation

How it works...

Before and After

As seen on TV

Success stories

She likes her body. Do you like yours?

Dr. Max gives new body

call now 503-513-5533

Sclerotherapy

What is a sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy or Laser Vein Treatment is a simple non-surgical procedure performed by Dr. Grishkevich to “erase” spider veins, which are small clusters of red, blue, or purple veins, or larger varicose veins. During the Sclerotherapy procedure, or Laser Vein Treatment, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes the vein to close off and fade from view.

Spider veins are commonly found on the calves, thighs and ankles. They can be especially noticeable and unsightly when you are wearing shorts, dresses, skirts, or a bathing suit.

Typical symptoms of spider veins or larger varicose veins are itchy, bulging, swollen, or restless legs. Heredity, pregnancy, hormonal changes, trauma, weight gain, and prolonged sitting or standing are all sources that contribute to the development of both spider veins and varicose veins.

The Consult

During your Sclerotherapy or Laser Vein Treatment consultation with Dr. Grishkevich, he will discuss the options and alternatives in great detail, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about this non-surgical procedure.

Dr. Grishkevich will begin the consult by identifying the cause of your spider veins using the latest diagnostic technology. Once the source is found, he will recommend the Sclerotherapy or Laser Vein Treatment that will achieve the best results for you. It typically takes 3-5 treatments per region to achieve optimum results.

About The Procedure

Sclerotherapyor Laser Vein Treatment is performed by Dr. Grishkevich is an out-patient procedure under local topical anesthesia; each procedure typically takes approximately 30 minutes.

Sclerotherapy or Laser Vein Treatment involves injecting a pharmaceutical–called a sclerosant–you’re your problem veins. The sclerosant causes the veins to scar and collapse so blood no longer fills them. The body will absorb the diseased veins and reroute your blood to healthy veins within a few weeks.

Some of Dr. Grishkevich’s patients also combine their Sclerotherapy or Laser Vein Treatment with other cosmetic or plastic surgery procedures, such as BOTOX® or injectable dermal fillers ( Juvederm, Radiesse, Restlane / Prelance and Fat Transfer), Fraxel Laser, chemical peels, laser hair removal, and skin care. NOTE: If patients are having a facelift / neck lift, browlift / forehead lift, eyelid surgery, or nose job cosmetic procedure in the Operating Room, they can choose to add a BOTOX® injection or an injectable dermal filler.

Recovery

After a Sclerotherapy procedure or Laser Vein Treatment, patients can resume normal daily activities and walking is encouraged to prevent blood clots. You will wear support to compress the treated vessels for one week after treatment to keep blood blow out of the treated veins.

Dr. Grishkevich recommends that you avoid strenuous activities the evening after the procedure, but you will have no additional restrictions after that. You should avoid hot baths, whirlpools, saunas, hot compresses, and direct exposure to sunlight for 48 hours after treatment.

Common side effects can include itching for 1 to 2 days after the procedure. The injection site may become raised and red, with some bruising, but should disappear in a few days.

Dr. Grishkevich will schedule a follow-up post-recovery office visit to discuss your progress.

To learn more about Sclerotherapy procedures or Laser Vein Treatment, please call us today at 503-513-5533 or complete this form on our website to schedule an initial consultation.

Detailed info

THE DETAILS

Sclerotherapy uses an injection of a special chemical (sclerosant) into a varicose vein to damage and scar the inside lining of the vein. This causes the vein to close.

During this procedure, the affected leg is elevated to drain blood, and the sclerosant is injected into the varicose vein. The procedure is done in a doctor's office or clinic and takes 5 to 30 minutes, depending on how many varicose veins are treated and how big they are.

After the injection of sclerosant is given, pressure is applied over the veins to prevent blood return when you stand up. You may need to wear compression stockings for several days or weeks to maintain the pressure.

The sclerotherapy injection may be painful, and the chemical (sclerosant) that is injected can cause a feeling of burning or cramping for a few minutes in the area where the shot was given. You may need repeated sessions and many injections each session, depending on the extent of the varicose veins and type of sclerosant used.

A newer, minimally invasive technique allows your doctor to inject sclerosant with a catheter. The catheter and sclerosant are guided to the affected vein with the help of duplex ultrasound. This process allows sclerotherapy treatment to be used on larger varicose veins that previously could only be treated surgically with ligation and stripping, in which larger varicose veins are tied off and removed.

What To Expect After Treatment

Sclerotherapy generally does not require any recovery period. You will likely be able to walk immediately after the treatment, but you should take it easy for a day or two. Bed rest is not recommended, but you may need to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days after sclerotherapy. Avoid exposing your legs to the sun for the first 2 weeks after the procedure.

You will probably have to wear compression stockings for a short time after having sclerotherapy.

Why It Is Done

Sclerotherapy is used to treat:

Spider veins and small veins that are not causing more serious problems.
Smaller varicose veins that come back after vein-stripping surgery.
Larger varicose veins, when minimally invasive techniques are used.

Sclerotherapy may be done alone or as a follow-up to surgery.

Sclerotherapy should not be done if you:

Are pregnant or nursing. It is not known whether the chemical (sclerosant) causes birth defects or gets into breast milk.
Have a history of allergy to sclerosant or similar substances.
Have blood clots or inflammation in the deep leg veins (deep vein thrombosis).

How Well It Works

Sclerotherapy costs less than surgery, requires no hospital stay, and allows a quicker return to work and normal activities.

Sclerotherapy can reduce symptoms and improve the look of the skin. It works in about 80 out of 100 people. It doesn't work for about 20 out of 100 people who have the procedure.1

Risks

The risks of sclerotherapy include:

Skin color changes along the treated vein. This is the most common side effect of sclerotherapy. The discoloration may take 6 to 12 months to disappear. In some people, it may be permanent. Failure of treatment to prevent varicose veins from returning. Itching, bruising, pain, and blistering where the veins were treated. Scarring resulting from ulcers or death of the tissue around the treated vein (skin or fat necrosis) if sclerosant is injected outside a vein or sclerosant escapes through the wall of a weakened vein.

A mild or severe (anaphylactic) reaction to the sclerosant. (Severe reaction is very rare but can be life-threatening.) Blood clots or damage in the deep vein system.

from WebMD.com

FAQ

How is sclerotherapy performed?

In sclerotherapy, medication is injected into the unwanted vein to cause it to close. The medication displaces the blood, causes the vein to appear lighter and irritates the lining, causing it to collapse. Bandages create external compression, keep the vein closed and prevent blood from flowing to it. Within a month, the vein is absorbed by the body and disappears. We perform sclerotherpay in our office. Anesthesia isn’t needed. The procedure isn’t painful, but the individual injections can cause a slight burning sensation that lasts a few seconds.

What can I expect after sclerotherapy?

We’ll wrap your leg in a compression bandage or support stocking. Usually you can remove the compression and resume normal activities in 24-48 hours. You might experience bruising and the injection site could be tender for a day or so. Your legs will look worse before they look better. But, you’ll see significant improvement in about a month. Some veins require retreatment, and new varicose or spider veins may form.

How do I prepare for sclerotherapy?

Please don’t use lotion or oil on your legs for 24 hours before sclerotherapy. And, shave your legs the night before. Avoid exposure to the sun for a month before and after treatment to help reduce the chance of dark pigmentation forming at the injection site. Bring a pair of shorts to wear during the procedure and plan to wear loose pants, sweats or a skirt to accommodate the compression bandages.

How long does the treatment take? How many treatments will I need?

Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in and prepare for the procedure. The treatment itself takes 20-30 minutes. The number of treatments varies from patient to patient. Many need just one session. If multiple sessions are needed, we’ll schedule them a few weeks apart.

What are the most common side effects?

Mild itching
Hyperpigmentation, a light brown discoloration of the skin along the vein in the injection area. It will fade in a few weeks, but could take a year to disappear entirely. Sometimes, a small amount of blood is trapped, hardens in the vein and looks dark blue or bruised. You may need to have this area drained before your next treatment.
New, fine spider veins may occur. If untreated, they may disappear within a year or can be treated with sclerotherapy.
Temporary tenderness or bruising at the injection site.

What are the less common side effects?

Ulceration at the injection site, which usually heals within six weeks, and may result in a small scar.
Allergic reaction. Be sure to tell us about all allergies.
Pulmonary embolus or deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot to the lungs or deep vein. This complication is extremely rare.

How much does sclerotherapy cost and will my insurance cover it?

Costs vary, depending on how many treatments you need. Sclerotherapy is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and isn’t covered by insurance. However, some symptomatic veins may qualify for insurance coverage. Check with your health insurance plan for complete details.

Will sclerotherapy work for me?

Varicose veins shouldn’t grow back after effective treatment. However, we can’t alter heredity and aging. And, some patients experience recurrence. We can retreat varicose veins with sclerotherapy or other procedures. This isn’t just cosmetic maintenance, but improves circulation and relieves symptoms.

What other options do I have?

You can choose to forego treatment. The varicose and spider veins may progress and new ones may form. You should have periodic reevaluations.
Your doctor might suggest support hose to promote circulation. Or, if you have larger varicose veins, surgical stripping could be appropriate.
Endovenous laser ablation (ELA) is an alternative to surgical stripping. Please talk with Dr. Grishkevich to discuss your options. How will I feel after sclerotherapy?

You might experience temporary itching or cramping. Your leg will be wrapped with a compression bandage. When the wrap is removed, you may notice bruising and discoloration. This will fade over a few weeks.

Can I exercise after treatment?

You should avoid activities that put pressure on the treated area (like heavy lifting or jogging) for a few days. But, your doctor might suggest a walking program to increase circulation and promote healing.

After a few days, exercise is encouraged. People who use their leg muscles every day heal faster and have fewer complications and less discomfort. The simplest, most effective exercise for good vein function is walking.

Does sclerotherapy cause stains on the skin?

Temporary brownish discoloration is common. It’s caused by a pigment released in the skin from veins in the process of disintegrating. These stains take up to several months to fade, depending on the size of the veins, your skin type and your individual healing ability.

Are the results of treatment with sclerotherapy temporary?

It’s possible for someone with a hereditary predisposition to develop new varicose veins after either surgical or non-surgical treatment. But, generally speaking sclerotherapy is extremely effective in permanently closing off varicose and spider veins. Veins lighten after each treatment.

from Providence Health&Service