Spider Veins

What are Spider Veins?

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are small veins that are reddish, purple, or blue in color. The veins are close to the surface of the skin, making them visible. Spider veins are often mistaken for varicose veins, but varicose veins are larger in appearance.

How do unwanted spider veins occur?

Spider veins occur due to heredity factors, obesity, hormonal changes, and some occupational hazards. Occupations that involve a lot of standing can increase the chance of spider veins forming. Birth control pills can also cause spider veins.

Where are these types of veins visible?

These veins are typically visible on the legs. They can also appear on the face. Occasionally other parts of the body may show visible veins.

What type of methods are used to treat spider veins?

Several treatments are available, including lifestyle changes, compression socks, sclerotherapy, and laser treatments. Simple lifestyle changes such as good hygiene and walking or exercising regularly can improve the appearance of spider veins. Sclerotherapy involves injecting the veins with saline to dissolve them over time.

What types of lasers are used to treat spider veins?

Endovenous laser treatment and intense pulsed light laser treatment are two available options. Endovenous laser treatment involves inserting a small laser into the veins and then using the laser to make the veins collapse. Local anesthesia is required, but it can be done on an outpatient basis. Intense pulsed light laser treatment involves using a laser on the surface of the skin to remove the veins.

What are the benefits of spider vein removal?

Spider veins can cause some pain or discomfort, but it’s not very common. If they are causing pain, having the veins treated with a laser can relieve this discomfort. Spider veins are mostly a cosmetic issue, so their removal will improve a patient’s self-esteem and mood.

Who is a good candidate for spider vein removal?

Most people can undergo treatment for spider veins without issue. However, the best candidates are not pregnant, not taking any blood thinners, and do not have any blood clots or a history of blood clots. If you have any severe illnesses, you should not undergo this treatment.

What is the average cost of spider vein removal?

Laser treatment for spider veins typically costs between $200 and $400 per session. The cost of each session can be affected by the size of the area to be treated. Additionally the amount of sessions needed may change the price.

How many treatments will I need?

The amount of treatments needed will depend upon the severity of the spider veins and where they are located. Most patients need between two to six treatments. If your spider veins are particularly severe and recurrent, more sessions will be necessary.

How long will each treatment take?

The procedure will usually last around thirty minutes. If the area being treated is small, it can take even less time.

How far apart are treatments?

Treatments are normally four to six weeks apart. This time can be altered depending upon how the patient reacts to treatment and how well the veins respond. Your doctor will work with you to set up the best schedule.

What should I expect before treatment?

Treating spider veins does not require any major preparation. However, your doctor may ask you to avoid the sun, blood thinners, smoking, and any alcohol for at least two weeks before treatment. On the day you will receive treatment, be sure not to put any products on the areas that will be treated.

What should I expect after treatment?

Your skin might appear red after the treatment. You may also notice small bumps under the surface of your skin; however, these will recede on their own. There may also be some small bruises, but the most common reaction is redness. You can help soothe these symptoms by wearing compressions socks after the procedure.

How permanent is the treatment?

The treatment is permanent but it is not a cure. The veins that are treated and removed will not return. However, you may develop new spider veins which would need additional treatment.

Where can I go to find a treatment?

Most dermatologists can treat spider veins. Other specialty skin clinics that focus on cosmetic procedures can also perform the treatment.