Spider Veins

Spider veins appear as red or purple thread-like structures on the skin surface, and can occur on the face, neck, chest and legs. They are superficial blood vessels that are found on almost everybody. In the legs, they can be found alone or in combination with varicose veins. Alone, they are not a health risk, but often are a cosmetic concern.

Spider veins are generally an inherited condition occurring when small capillaries dilate on the surface of the skin. There are larger veins called reticular or "feeder" veins that are the source for spider veins. Spider veins can worsen for a variety of reasons.

To treat them, we use state-of-the-art technology and a unique combination therapy. Our approach involves the use of sclerotherapy with hypertonic saline followed by a vascular laser. Sclerotherapy involves injection of a sclerosing agent into the blood vessels causing the walls to become swollen and inflamed. Right afterwards, a Vbeam pulsed dye laser is then used to heat the vessels. By causing "double damage" -- the sclerosing agent and direct heat to the vessel walls -- they collapse and disappear. During your consultation, you will be given recommendations tailored to your specific condition, which may include one or both of these treatments.

Our distinctive treatment approach will improve your appearance and, like with many patients, your self confidence. The veins will begin to appear lighter after each session. Two to three sessions are usually required to achieve the maximum outcome. The appearance of the vessels will continue to improve for up to one or two months after treatment. Pain associated with treatment is minimal. Sclerotherapy will involve a slight needle prick and mild burning while the laser will produce a little cold stinging sensation.