Spider veins are the small, usually blue, superficial veins that so frequently accompany age and associated with venous insufficiency. They may present as several small veins or significant clusters of veins that significantly effect the appearance of the skin of the legs. Telangiectasias are the bright red vessels that appear, usually in the face, secondary to environmental damage and certain disease states.

Treatment

Larger spider veins are most commonly treated by injections of a sclerosing solution. At the Center, a solution called Sclerovein is utilized. This product is imported from Germany, having been used for years in Europe. It has the advantage of being essentially painless compared to saline, and probably more effective.

In addition to sclerotherapy, the Center utilizes the Yaglase Plus, long pulse Nd:YAG laser. This laser is a dual modality laser that may be utilized for both the removal of spider veins and unwanted body hair. It works through a process of “selective thermolysis”, utilizing light energy to create destructive heat in a selective target. The Yaglase produces a wavelength of light that is uniquely absorbed by both blood and hair. The pigment absorbs the light energy, converting it to heat, which destroys only the target.

For spider veins and telangiectasias, the target is hemoglobin.

The procedure is relatively painless. An external cooler is utilized, which for most patients is all that is necessary to provide adequate anesthesia. The laser’s fiber handpiece is then traced over the course of the vein. The vein will then collapse.

Pre-treatment and Post-treatment

The patient is asked to wear compression for at least 48 hours after the treatment, and to limit exercise during that period of time. In addition, any products that may inhibit clotting, such as aspirin, Motrin, vit E, etc. should be avoided for at least two weeks prior to the procedure. Tanning should also be avoided for at least 1 month prior to and 1 month after the procedure. It is important to note that some of the veins may return, requiring additional treatments.

Pre-treatment and Post-treatment - Spider Veins

Treatments may be priced individually or as a series of treatments at a package saving.