Ask Southern Arizona Laser & Vein Institute
The staff and physicians of Southern Arizona Laser Vein Institute (SALVI) want to ensure that you will have all your questions answered before proceeding with your treatment. The following provides some common answers to questions we often receive. In addition, the links contained in this page will direct you to patient PDF documents that provide more insight to the various procedures performed in our office.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are diseased blood vessels that have become permanently dilated (enlarged), and can no longer efficiently carry blood back to the heart.
Can varicose veins affect my health in a negative way?
Unfortunately, left untreated, varicose veins can cause pain, swelling, inflammation (phlebitis), skin ulcers, and blood clots. Protect your circulation – don’t delay treatment.
What causes varicose veins?
While causes for developing varicose veins are not yet known, many contributing factors have been identified as risks to developing varicose veins. Some of these risk factors include:
- Occupation – prolonged standing or sitting increases blood pressure on the closed valves. Such inactivity therefore weakens your veins and leaves your legs susceptible to varicose vein development.
- Gender – statistically, female patients are four times more likely to develop varicose veins than males are. Increases in weight, progesterone levels, blood volume and pelvic vein pressure contribute to the development of various venous problems in 70% of pregnant women. 20% of all women will develop full-blown varicose veins due to hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and through birth control pills.
- Heredity – varicose veins are likely to run in your family. In nearly 70% of patients, defective vein walls and/or values have been the cause of their varicose veins. A review of your family history will determine if you are at a great risk of developing varicose veins.
- Age – the frequency and severity of varicose veins increases with age. Tissue fibers deteriorate as we age which leads to the appearance of wrinkles, dilated and tortuous blood vessels and varicose veins.
What types of procedures/treatment options does SALVI offer?
Currently, Southern Arizona Laser Vein Institute perform various treatments including Endovenous Radiofrequency Treatments, Sclerotherapy and Microphlebectomy.
Including Pre-Operative and Post-Operative instructions, the following fliers outline the available treatments, their procedures and patient instructions. Simply click on the procedure below to download each information sheet.
Endovenous Radiofrequency Treatment (VNUS)
Microphlebectomy Vein Treatment
Is Laser Vein Treatment covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies do cover, at least partially, costs associated with vein treatments based on medical necessity. At the time of your initial consultation, our staff will discuss the prescribed treatment, associated costs, and payment arrangements including your insurance coverage.
Prior to your appointment, check your policy and/or call your insurance provider to find out what their coverage includes. For your convenience, SALVI accepts most major credit cards.
What should I wear to my treatment?
Patients are asked to arrive in loose, comfortable clothing such as sweat pants or skirts. Whatever you wear, you want to make sure you can easily put it back on once your treatment is completed. Your legs will be wrapped so jeans or tight fitting clothing are not recommended. Please wear flat flip-flops, sandals, slippers or shoes that can be easily slipped on when you are ready to leave. Tennis shoes, high heels, or boots are not recommended.
Are there any risks associated with Laser Vein Treatments?
All the treatments we employ at SALVI are FDA approved and extremely safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks. These include bruising, skin blisters, blood clots, allergic reactions, or less than satisfactory results. Please be sure to discuss these risks and any concerns you may have with your doctor.
Does the color of my clothes and/or undergarments matter during treatment?
Dark clothing may absorb heat during your treatment. For your comfort, we recommend patients wear clothing, including undergarments, that are light in color.
Can I eat before my treatment?
You may have a small meal before your treatment. However, we do suggest that you avoid drinking coffee several hours before treatment.
Eating fresh pineapple the day before your treatment may reduce bruising.
Are there any other things I should avoid before my treatment is performed?
You should not wear any lotion or cream on your legs the day of treatment. In addition, we encourage you to avoid sun exposure, tanning booths, artificial tanning for seven (7) days prior to treatment.
What should I bring with me to my appointment?
You are asked to bring a list of your current medications and supplements as well as any questions you may have prior to proceeding with your treatment.
To help expedite your check-in time, you are encouraged to bring completed forms with you to your initial consultation.
>> Click here to download patient forms
Will I need to wear compression stockings after my appointment?
Yes. Your physician will discuss the need for compression stockings at your initial consultation. For your convenience, you may purchase compression stockings at our offices.
Can I drive home after my treatment?
While vein treatment should not prohibit you from driving, we do highly suggest that you make alternate arrangements for transportation. Generally, if you are receiving a sedative at the time of treatment, you may not want to drive.
After my treatment, when can I expect to be back to normal activity?
In most cases, patients are asked to walk but to avoid prolonged sitting and/or standing for the first three (3) days. You should resume normal activity three (3) days after your treatment, but heavy and/or strenuous exercise after ten (10) days.
Where can I learn more?
There are several online resources that offer links and information to help you learn about the procedures offered at Southern Arizona Laser Vein Institute. Please click on the respective images below for links to these outside sources.
Need Adobe Reader to download printable forms & fliers:
Southern Arizona Laser Vein Institute
6422 East Speedway Boulevard, Suite 150
Tucson, AZ 85710