Does Pregnancy Cause Varicose Veins?

Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

Pregnancy can be one of the most joyous periods of time in someone’s life, but coupled with all of the happiness are a list of side effects that aren’t always as welcome and varicose veins are one of them.

One of the high-risk factors for developing varicose veins is, in fact, pregnancy. What causes varicose veins during pregnancy has a lot to do with the increase in blood produced in the body during this time. The extra blood flow is needed to support the growing baby, but this also increases the size of the veins. As the blood supply becomes larger and the veins become larger as a result, excess pressure is put on the veins. Additionally, as the baby grows, the uterus also grows with it, and that adds pressure to the veins as well. Hormonal changes are also a factor. Progesterone levels increase during pregnancy, which relaxes the walls of the blood vessels.

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Varicose veins affect up to 40% of pregnant women, but the chance of developing them is more common in women who are overweight, or have a family history of any kind of venous disease. In some cases, women who are carrying twins, triplets or any kind of multiples are also at a higher risk.

Typically, these varicose veins during pregnancy are harmless. It’s usually a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins are usually very visible to the naked eye, appearing as large, discolored, twisting and rope-like bulges seen through the top layer of the skin. They are not the prettiest thing to see when you look down at your legs and feet, and often they come with very uncomfortable symptoms like itching, throbbing, swelling and burning sensation on the skin surrounding the affected veins.

This is why most men and women choose to go through some kind of varicose vein treatment in order to have them removed. However, varicose veins treatment during pregnancy is not recommended right away. For most women, those pregnancy-induced varicose veins will improve or disappear after giving birth. However, expect them to pop back up if you decide to get pregnant again. If you developed them during your first pregnancy, you are more likely going to develop them during future pregnancies as well.

Minimizing Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Although varicose veins are inevitable in some cases, there are still ways to minimize the onset and manage the condition during your pregnancy. The most important thing is to keep your blood flowing. Proper circulation is key to having healthy veins. Don’t sit or stand in the same position for too long, keep legs and feet elevated whenever possible, flex your feet to encourage blood flow in the ankles, and be careful not to sit with your legs crossed too often. At night, sleep on the left side of the body to relieve any pressure on the inferior vena cava, the largest vein in the human body.

Wearing compression socks or stockings is also ideal to promote healthy blood flow. These stockings put just the right amount of pressure on the legs in order to keep blood flowing freely toward the heart. Look for maternity-specific hosiery, but also be wary of just how tight it feels when you put it on. You don’t want it to cut off circulation, just help move it along. This applies to your clothing too — make sure nothing is too tight that it could cut off circulation. Wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. Stick to flat shoes or ones with a low heel to help work the calf muscles.

Workout is Ideal for Pregnant Women with Varicose Veins

Diet and exercise are also very important. Low impact workouts, such as walking or water aerobics, are ideal for pregnant women with varicose veins. If you are looking for something more physical, talk with your healthcare provider or a certified personal trainer about incorporating a safe and effective fitness routine into your lifestyle. Stay hydrated, eat plenty of fiber, stay away from high-sodium foods, and make sure you are getting all of the essential vitamins and nutrients needed for both you and your baby.

As mentioned, being overweight can cause varicose veins due to the excess weight causing strain on the veins. You will gain weight during pregnancy, but it should be done at a slow and steady pace, monitored by your doctor, so that you don’t exceed the recommended number.

The varicose veins will most likely dissipate soon after childbirth, but if your varicose veins overstay their welcome postpartum, that’s when it’s okay to start looking into treatment options. At Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we offer various minimally invasive procedures to treat varicose veins and other venous diseases, whether they are a product of pregnancy or other health conditions.

Contact us at Fox Vein & Laser Experts

Dr. Susan B. Fox, D. O., RPVI, FSVM, is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins, and can consult with you, after you have given birth, about the status of your varicose veins to determine whether or not treatment is necessary. Contact our office today at 954-627-1045 to schedule a consultation with our vein experts.

Top Benefits of Choosing VeinGogh Treatment in Miami, FL

June 29, 2024

If you’re living in Miami and in search of a safe and effective solution for unsightly and uncomfortable spider veins, VeinGogh treatment may be just the right treatment you’ve been looking for.

This innovative procedure offers a variety of benefits, providing a quick, safe, and reliable way to eliminate small spider veins on your face, legs, feet, or anywhere else on the body they may be present.

VeinGogh vein treatment is a cutting-edge method used specifically to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure uses Ohmic Thermolysis technology, which delivers microbursts of high-frequency energy directly to the vein, causing the vessel walls to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.

This revolutionary technology is able to target spider veins with such precision that it avoids damaging the surrounding tissue or leaving scars on the skin. This makes it a much more preferred choice compared to other traditional vein treatment methods.

VeinGogh is minimally invasive and typically performed in a medical office. First, you’ll come into the office for a consultation with a vein specialist who will evaluate your medical history, as well as the current state of your veins to determine if VeinGogh is the right option for you.

Remember, not all veins are treatable with VeinGogh. A patient who is suffering from larger varicose veins or feeder veins may not be a candidate for the procedure. This will all be discussed during the initial consultation.

On the day of the treatment, the targeted area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort. The procedure involves a frequency regulator called Microburst Technology, which is delivered to the affected veins. These bursts are incredibly short — only a fraction of a second. The veins will shrink and eventually disappear, and blood is then rerouted to healthy veins.

Because of how quick and precise the bursts of energy are, it is a more comfortable experience, safe for all skin types, and there is largely decreased risk for visible scars. The process only takes around 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of veins being treated.

After the treatment, you may experience minor redness or swelling in the treated area, but these side effects are usually temporary. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

VeinGogh Treatment is an excellent option for many individuals, but it’s particularly beneficial for those who have small, superficial veins; are looking for a minimally invasive solution; have tried other spider vein treatments without seeing any success, and are in generally good health. Patients who have certain significant underlying conditions could experience complications during the procedure.

Choosing this particular option for spider vein treatment has numerous advantages. Some of the benefits of VeinGogh include:

1. Precision and Control: VeinGogh allows for precise targeting of veins, ensuring effective treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

2. Quick and Convenient: The procedure is very quick, typically taking only around a half hour to an hour, depending on the size of the area. It requires no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

3. Minimal Discomfort: The treatment is virtually painless, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort during the procedure. It’s a much more comfortable procedure when compared to other traditional methods.

4. Effective Results: VeinGogh effectively eliminates spider veins and small varicose veins, providing visible results after just one session. It also provides flexibility to treat other types of skin imperfections such as rosacea cherry angiomas.

5. Safe for All Skin Types: Unlike some laser treatments, VeinGogh is safe for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for a diverse range of patients.

6. No Scarring: The precision of the VeinGogh system ensures that there is no scarring or significant skin damage, preserving the aesthetics of the treated area.

7. Long-Lasting Effects: Results from VeinGogh are long-lasting, especially when supplemented with a healthy lifestyle and proper vein care post-treatment. After treatment, patients continue to see improvement over time as the veins are absorbed and removed by the body.

VeinGogh is safe and effective when done on its own, but it can also be used in conjunction with Sclerotherapy for even better results. Sclerotherapy is another treatment used for spider vein removal that uses injections with medication in liquid or foam form. Just as with VeinGogh, it’s a very quick procedure that provides optimal results.

South Florida is home to top-notch medical facilities and specialists, so if you are looking for VeinGogh treatment in Miami, you have come to the right place. The expert team at Fox Vein & Laser Experts have several years of experience providing patients with successful VeinGogh procedures, as well as numerous other vein treatments.

If you are struggling with small spider veins and seeking a safe, effective solution, consider all of the benefits of VeinGogh treatment. With its precision and effectiveness, minimal discomfort, and long-lasting results, VeinGogh offers an ideal option for treating spider veins and small varicose veins. Contact our office at 954-627-1045 for a consultation or book an appointment online.

Skin Rejuvenation

Prepping for Your Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: What You Need to Know

June 28, 2024

We all want radiant and youthful skin, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by adding a skin rejuvenation treatment series into our routine.

There are a variety of treatments that can be considered skin rejuvenating. Laser procedures are safe and effective for treating more serious skin concerns. These devices work by targeting specific skin concerns such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.

For laser skin rejuvenation in Miami at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we offer PicoWay® Resolve, which is a fractional laser treatment that utilizes the shortest wavelength of laser energy available on the market today.

It is safe for all skin types and shades. Due to the energy being delivered in such short bursts, the skin never heats up too much. That results in a much more comfortable experience for the patient, with optimal results and no need for extended downtime.

Additional options to rejuvenate the skin include microneedling, facials and chemical peels. Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production, which improves skin texture and firmness.

Facial treatments range from basic facials to more advanced ones like chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Facials aim to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin, while advanced treatments target specific concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging.

The secret to maximizing the benefits of these treatments, however, lies in proper skin preparation.

Preparing your skin before any rejuvenating skin treatment ensures optimal results, minimizes risks, and promotes faster healing. Here are some basic things you should know about prepping your skin for a rejuvenation treatment:

Consultation and Assessment: Before undergoing any skin rejuvenation treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified skincare specialist is essential. They will assess your skin type, concerns, and medical history to recommend the most suitable treatment and preparation steps.

Avoid Sun Exposure: This is incredibly important. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications during and after a treatment. For at least two weeks prior to your appointment, avoid excessive sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have a sunburn, we recommend rescheduling your treatment.

Discontinue Certain Medications and Products: Some medications and skin care products can increase skin sensitivity. Inform your provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products. Typically, you will be advised to stop using retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other exfoliants at least a week before treatment.

Hydrate and Moisturize: Your skin will respond better to the treatment and heal faster when it’s well hydrated. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and use a good quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid using any new products that could potentially irritate your skin.

Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly: On the day of your treatment, cleanse your skin thoroughly to ensure all makeup is gone, and any oils and impurities are cleared away. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser, and avoid scrubbing your skin. It’s important that your skin is clean and free of any barriers that could interfere with the treatment.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: Each type of skin rejuvenation treatment may have specific pre-treatment instructions. During your initial consultation, our team will go over all of these instructions with you to make sure you are well-prepared for treatment day.

For laser treatments specifically, avoid photosensitizing agents. Certain skincare ingredients and medications can make your skin more sensitive to light. Avoid these for at least a week before your laser treatment.

For microneedling, you may want to consider numbing cream, especially if you are sensitive to pain. Microneedling can be uncomfortable on certain parts of the face and body. Numbing cream can be applied about 30 minutes prior to the treatment. If you think you may want to do this, make sure to account for that extra time when scheduling the appointment.

Proper post-treatment care is just as crucial as pre-treatment preparation. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

After getting a skin rejuvenation treatment, you should:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 diligently.
Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause sweating for a few days.
Not pick or scratch the treated area to prevent scarring and infection.

Proper skin preparation is the foundation for a successful skin rejuvenation treatment. If you follow all the steps outlined above, as well as anything else that your provider suggests, you are more likely to achieve your skin goals. This also minimizes the risk of developing complications.

With the right preparation and care, you’re on your way to enjoying healthier, more radiant skin.

To schedule an appointment with our skin rejuvenation specialists at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, contact us at 954-627-1045 or book online.

Laser Hair Removal

6 Life Changing Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

June 27, 2024

When it comes to our personal care routine, most people prefer to seek out products and treatments that are known for their convenience and efficiency. One of those personal care routines that is both a necessity and a hassle is hair removal.

Traditional hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, and tweezing can be time-consuming, painful, and only offer temporary results. Laser hair removal, or laser hair reduction treatment, is the long-term solution you’ve been waiting for.

If you have been considering laser hair removal, but haven’t yet booked the treatment, understanding its benefits can help you make a final decision. Here are six life-changing benefits of laser hair removal:

1. Long-lasting Results

The biggest advantage of laser hair removal over other methods is its potential for long-lasting results. Shaving, waxing, and tweezing need to be repeated on a regular basis — sometimes even every day.

Alternatively, laser hair removal targets the hair follicles directly, eventually damaging it enough to significantly reduce hair regrowth. After a series of about 4-8 sessions, depending on the area being treated, most people will experience a substantial reduction in hair growth. This also leads to smoother skin, and much less maintenance needed.

2. Precision and Effectiveness

Laser hair removal offers unparalleled precision. At Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we use the GentleMax Pro®, which is known to be the most effective and gentle machine on the market. It is powerful enough that it can lessen the amount of visits needed in order to see optimal results. The

Our aesthetician can customize the treatment to each individual patient using the device’s precise technology, and provide a comfortable experience with very little to no side effects and no downtime.

The laser technology is designed to target the hair follicles while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. This makes it an ideal solution for treating small areas like the upper lip, chin, and bikini line with high precision.

Additionally, it can adjust to different skin types and hair colors, ensuring effective and safe treatment for just about everyone.

3. Time and Cost Efficiency

Don’t let the upfront cost of laser hair removal scare you away. While it may appear higher compared to traditional methods, it is a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Consider how much you spend overtime on razors, shaving creams, waxing kits, and salon appointments. Laser hair removal reduces, and sometimes even eliminates the need for all of these recurring expenses.

It’s not just your money you’ll be saving though — it’s your time too. When you don’t have to engage in these regular hair removal routines, you’re freeing up a significant amount of time for yourself. That means more leisure time and less hassle. Ideal for parents and busy professionals!

4. Improved Skin Health

Shaving is almost synonymous with skin irritation, razor bumps and burns, ingrown hairs, and even infections. Waxing can cause burns and irritation too. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, can help mitigate these issues.

By targeting the hair follicle and reducing the frequency of hair removal, the skin has more time to heal and regenerate. Most people who have gone through with laser hair removal say that their skin is smoother and healthier as a result of the treatments. Even better, if you are someone who is prone to skin issues related to shaving or waxing, laser hair removal can be a game-changer.

5. Boost in Confidence

This benefit is more about our own personal mindset. Having visible, unwanted hair in certain places can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for many people. Whether it’s facial hair, underarm stubble, or leg hair, constantly worrying about visible hair can definitely have an effect on confidence.

Laser hair removal offers a more permanent solution, allowing individuals to feel more confident in their appearance. This boost in self-esteem can positively impact various aspects of life, from social interactions to professional settings.

6. Convenience and Comfort

Laser hair removal treatments are relatively quick. For small areas like the underarms or upper lips, sessions are only a few minutes. Larger areas like the legs or back can take around an hour, but no more than that.

With today’s advanced laser technology, there is nowhere near as much pain associated with the treatments as there was in the past. Most people describe the feeling as mild pinching or tingling.

There is also no need for downtime, so you can return to your daily activities immediately after a session. You may see mild redness or bumps after the treatment, but those side effects disappear very quickly

Laser hair removal offers numerous life-changing benefits. From the long-lasting results to the significant amount of time and money saved in the long run and everything in between, it has proven to be the superior alternative to traditional hair removal methods.

For those in Miami seeking an effective and permanent solution to unwanted hair, our laser hair removal Miami clinic provides state-of-the-art services designed to meet diverse needs. Book your appointment now to get started, and you’ll have smooth, hair-free skin in no time.
Contact our office at 954-627-1045 or book online.