Spider Vein Removal

Description:
Spider veins are small, discolored veins that appear near the surface of the skin. They are most commonly red or blue in color and they generally appear in groups. They usually appear on the face and legs but can strike anywhere on the body. The veins are no longer being used by your body and thus can be removed, leaving your skin looking the way you want it too.

The Procedure:
There are two main treatments used to remove Spider Veins. Laser Vein Treatment is one option, is involves a laser that super heats the walls of the vein. This destroys it allowing your body to absorb the vein through the natural healing process. This treatment is best suited for smaller and medium sized veins.

Another treatment option is known as Sclerotherapy. This treatment consist of a fine needle, used to inject a solution into the vein causing it to collapse

Both treatments will require multiple sessions and the two treatments can be combined for best results.

Time Required:
Each of the treatment options take about 30-60 minutes and patients generally require between 2-8 sessions.

In/Out Patient:
Both treatment options are outpatient.

Side Effects:
The side effects are generally mild. Some swelling and redness may occur, but they generally subside a few hours after treatment.

Risks:
Both treatments are relatively risk free, with Sclerotherapy there is a slight chance of discoloration in the treated area.

Duration of Results:
After a treatment regime is completed the veins are destroyed permanently. However, there is a chance that new veins will appear requiring further treatments.

Recovery Time:
Both of these procedures are appealing because they offer significant results with no down time. Most patients are able to return to work immediately following the treatment.

Insurance:
Spider Vein Removal is generally a cosmetic procedure not covered by insurance, in certain cases where the effects are more than cosmetic, insurance may cover the procedure.

Level of Discomfort:
Most patients describe the pain experienced during the procedure as mild. Anesthesia can be used if necessary.

Anesthesia:
Anesthesia is not usually required but a topical anesthetic may be applied to the treated area if necessary.

Also Known As:
Spider veins are also known as telangiectasias and are not to be confused with varicose veins. The procedure to treat them can be called spider vein removal, sclerotherapy, laser spider vein removal, and spider vein treatment.