SPIDER VEIN TREATMENTS

Spider veins are hereditary, and while most commonly found on the thigh or lower leg, can form virtually anywhere on the leg, from the uppermost region of the thigh to the ankle. Occasionally, spider veins will appear on the face. A number of factors may contribute to the development of spider veins in the legs, including heredity, pregnancy, hormonal shifts, weight gain and occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing. Spider veins in the face may be hereditary, or may be caused by sun exposure or the use of certain medications.

Any of the following types of conditions generally make you a good candidate for vein treatments:

Spider -shaped veins, with a group of veins radiating outward from a dark central point.

Arborizing veins that resemble tiny, branch-like shapes in a cartwheel pattern, often seen on the outer though.

Simple linear veins that appear as thin, separate lines, and are commonly seen on the inner knee or on the face.

Reticular veins, which are larger, darker leg veins that tend to bulge slightly, but are not severe enough to require surgical treatment.

Treatment Options

Sclerotherapy

Technique: The veins to be treated are marked. Larger veins are usually treated first. A sclerosing solution is injected into the vein with a micro-needle. The solution causes the vein to turn white (blanch), and then gradually disappear. A typical treatment lasts from 30 minutes to an hour. Injection sclerotherapy can be an excellent alternative to surgery, provided the patient’s venous system is not affected.

Benefits:

No downtime—patients can immediately resume work and all most normal activities; however vigorous activities are not advisable for the first 24 hours.

Little if any discomfort.

A safe, time-proven procedure.

Recovery:

Within the first week: You are encouraged to walk. You will want to wear support hose and avoid heavy lifting, squatting, and running. The treated areas will appear bruised. Additionally, you should avoid sitting or standing in one place for more than an hour or two.

Within one month: Bruises will have begun to diminish. You can resume most exercise; however, consult with Dr. Stewart before starting a heavy lifting or jogging program.

Laser Therapy

Technique: The veins to be treated are marked. Larger veins are usually treated first. A beam of light is directed at the blood vessel and it is obliterated through the skin. A typical treatment lasts from 30 minutes to an hour. Laser therpay can be an excellent alternative to surgery, provided the patient’s venous system is not affected.

Benefits:

No downtime—patients can immediately resume work and most normal activities; however, vigorous activities are not advisable for the first 24 hours.

Little if any discomfort, some patients may experience a stinging sensation only when the laser pulse is delivered.

Extreme precision, preferred method for facial veins.

Recovery:

Within the first week: Treated areas may appear purplish, red or slight swollen. Initially a crust may form over the treated areas. You will need to keep area clean and maybe use a protective ointment. You are encouraged to walk, wear support hose if legs treated, and avoid heavy lifting, squatting, and running. You should avoid sitting or standing in one place for more than an hour or two.

Within one month: Any redness or swelling will have begun to diminish. You can resume most exercise; however, consult with Dr. Stewart before starting a heavy lifting or jogging program. Use sun screen to protect treated areas.

Other Considerations:

• Complete correction is not expected on the first treatment. Only about 50 to 70% of the treated vessels will be permanently gone. 1 to 3 treatments are generally required for optimal results with the laser and 2 to 4 with sclerotherapy.
• Initially wearing heavy-duty stockings will help keep treated veins closed and reduce bruising.
• On occasion, small clots can develop at the site of the injection.
• Color changes can occur in the skin where therapy has been performed.
• In some cases, laser treatments may be a better alternative to sclerotherapy.
• If there is an underlying problem with the venous system, the veins will recur.
• Neither treatment prevents new spider veins from surfacing in the future.