We are here to help you get the treatment you need, but first we encourage you to read through our FAQ on spider and varicose vein information to see which treatment could be right for you. Feel free to contact us below with any additional inquiries or to set up a consultation.
Spider veins are small, discolored veins that typically appear on the legs or face. So-called for their spider-webbed appearance, these branch-shaped veins usually are not painful and are often removed for cosmetic purposes. Spider veins can be removed or lightened through self-care at home, non-invasive laser treatments, or vein injections.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted blood veins just beneath the skin. While someone can experience an issue with varicose veins anywhere in the body, they most commonly occur in the legs. Much like spider veins, they are usually considered a more cosmetic issue than a serious condition. However, depending on their severity they can be uncomfortable or symptomatic of more serious problems.
Several factors can play into a patient developing spider or varicose veins. These can include pregnancy, puberty, overweight strain on veins, as well as age and time causing wear and tear on the valves in veins that help regulate blood flow, family history, or menopause.
There are several ways to address spider veins or varicose veins! The treatment depends on the severity of the spider or varicose vein case. The least invasive treatment is at home self-care, such as wearing compression socks or stockings. For more severe cases, a patient could consider laser treatment for spider veins close to the skin’s surface. Even though the laser causes the vein to clot and then dry up, the procedure is painless and can be performed in the office.
An irritant is injected into the affected veins. This irritates the walls of the vein, causing them to stick together, which prevents blood from flowing into the affected area. In turn, this reduces swelling and even causes the vein to shrink. While the spider veins will fade over time, multiple sclerotherapy treatments may be required. A key to this treatment’s success is coupling it with home self-care after a session, such as wearing compression stockings for a few days to a week after treatment.
Patients will typically see spider veins begin to disappear after 6 weeks, but more treatments can be applied if necessary.
Depending on the severity of the varicose veins, a patient could consult their doctor about Endovenous Laser Therapy (or EVLT). After applying local anesthesia to the affected area, the doctor will make a small incision in the vein and insert a laser fiber. This laser fiber applies heat within the vein, causing it to collapse. While a patient will feel the effects of the treatment, it can take a few months for the vein to completely disappear.
While EVLT has been used on spider vein treatment in the past, it is not typically a go-to for patients. That is because spider veins are much smaller than varicose veins and thus respond better to more non-invasive procedures such as laser treatment, home self-care, or sclerotherapy treatments.
If you have additional questions about treating spider and varicose veins, reach out to the BASS Vein Center. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors by calling 925-281-5912.
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