Why Tattooing Over Varicose Veins is a Bad Idea
Tattoos are a popular mode of self expression; you want to be able to have exactly the art you choose on exactly the place you envision it. And, in some cases, you may wish to use tattoos to disguise imperfections like scars. However, it’s important to realize that tattooing over varicose veins is a bad idea and bad in practice for tattoo artists. Tattoo artists that agree to put a tattoo over your bulging veins may not know they are risking giving you a nasty infection. To get the tattoo that you want in the place that you want it, it’s important to seek treatment for vein issues first.
Tattoos Can Be Dangerous for Those Veins
Varicose veins appear near the skin when damaged vein valves cause blood to pool and collect instead of flowing properly. Over time, this can result in veins that look swollen and raised, often with dark discoloration. Varicose veins can also be extremely painful. Left untreated, issues like deep vein thrombosis can result.
Tattoos applied over varicose veins can cause a number of issues, including:
- increased swelling
- high risk of infection
- bleeding
- ruptures
Instead of trying to disguise veins with makeup or tattoos, consider having treatment that will get rid of them for good. Seeking treatment for varicose veins can improve their appearance and give relief.
Common Treatments for Varicose Veins
There are a number of treatments available for varicose veins. Which will be appropriate for you will depend on several factors that include the severity of your varicose veins, your general health and your comfort level with treatment options. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Laser treatment. During this outpatient treatment, veins are treated with custom-designed lasers that destroy the vein and lead to healing. This is a treatment that is practically pain-free for most patients.
- Sclerotherapy. Using an ultrasound for guidance, this method treats veins by removing them permanently. This treatment is recognized as the only vein treatment that can eliminate all problem veins.
Aftercare for Varicose Vein Procedures
While these treatments are far less invasive that conventional vein stripping surgeries, there is still a recovery period that patients should observe. For a period of about two weeks after treatment, you should avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, as well.
Light exercise such as walking can help with recovery. Talk to your doctor about how long you should exercise each day.
Compression stockings can help with swelling and will minimize discomfort. Wear them daily during recovery for relief.
Questions to Ask Your Vein Doctor
Being an informed patient can mean better outcomes. Before seeking treatment, talk to your doctor and be sure to ask:
- Where will the procedure be done?
- Will my varicose veins return?
- How does this treatment work and how does it compare to other options?
Our Vein Doctors in Tampa, FL
At Vein911, our caring and experienced doctors provide treatment for a range of conditions that include painful and unsightly varicose veins. They’ve happily provided care to people throughout the Greater Tampa Bay area in Florida for many years.
Click here to learn more about our practice, or here to schedule an appointment with Vein911 today.
