Effective solutions for unsightly spider veins on legs and face
For men as well as women, the presence of unsightly spider veins on the legs or on the face can ruin the appearance of the most well-cared for body, and add years to one's apparent age. The good news is that these fine red and blue veins can be addressed with the latest medical laser therapy and/or sclerotherapy.
Spider Veins are like varicose veins but smaller. They begin as tiny capillaries and appear as blue or red squiggles. They are small red, blue or purple veins that commonly appear on the surface of the thighs, calves and ankles. It's estimated that at least one third of the adult female population is troubled with this common problem. People often seek treatment for spider veins because of cosmetic concern. However, it is also common for spider veins to cause symptoms, such as aching, heaviness, itching and night cramps.
Spider veins may be isolated or associated with "feeder" veins. They can also be associated with larger underlying varicose veins.
Certain factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy, hormonal factors, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and trauma.
The real cause of spider veins is not known but they are more prominent in obese individuals, females, individuals who are on their feet for prolonged periods, minor trauma, pregnancy and perhaps use of contraceptives. There may be a familial component to these veins. In general, any condition that will increase pressure in the veins, can lead to spider veins.
The most important thing to know is that these veins are entirely of a cosmetic concern. There are several options in treating spider veins. The most common is sclerotherapy, laser and camouflage. Surgery is never used to treat spider veins.
Laser treatment is a safe, effective option for spider veins. It does not involve any injection and takes a few minutes. Repeat sessions may be required in some cases. The laser causes the blood in the vein to disappear.
During laser treatment, intense light is directed to the veins, eliminating them permanently. Lasers are especially suited to treat small spider veins when a needle cannot be used. Bruising usually occurs in the area treated after laser treatments and lasts for a few weeks. The cost of laser treatment for spider veins is usually higher compared to sclerotherapy.
Sclerotherapy involves injection of a sterile solution (called a sclerosing solution) into the small veins using a very fine, thin needle. This solution irritates the vein lining causing it to undergo fibrosis and eventually disappear. Multiple veins can be injected at each session. The sclerosing solution used may be either hypertonic saline or sodium tetradecylsulfate.
Spider veins have no function and removing does no harm. The only reason they are removed is because of their unsightly cosmetic appearance.
Sclerotherapy has been around for 20 years and is a safe procedure. The procedure involves the use of multiple injections to destroy the vein. Lasers on the other hand do not require needles and are currently in vogue. Laser therapy is also slightly more expensive than sclerotherapy. Laser therapy is fast becoming the procedure of choice.
Almost anyone with unwanted spider veins can be treated, except women who are pregnant or nursing. Other relative contraindications include those with skin infections, uncontrolled diabetes, fever, history of deep vein thrombosis, anticoagulant therapy those patients taking corticosteroids.
No extensive preparation is required before the procedure. It is recommended that one stop smoking and stop taking aspirin a few days before the procedure. Any patient on a blood thinner is not a candidate for the procedure.
Our Spider Vein treatment offers several key benefits for patients seeking to improve their appearance:
Safe, non-invasive procedures with minimal downtime.
Proven results for reducing the appearance of spider veins.
Regain confidence in your appearance and wear what you want.
Suitable for both men and women with various body areas.
Call us at 307-733-2950
Our Clinic is the ideal place for women, men or children to secure an integrative, holistic and personalized approach to health care. We partner with each patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.
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