SPIDER VEINS

What are they and how are they removed?




What are spider veins?

Spider veins are small, damaged veins that can appear on the surface of the legs or face. They are generally not painful or harmful, but some people may wish to remove them for cosmetic reasons.

Causes

When working properly, veins contain a one-way valve that close onceSpider veins result from diseased vein valves blood passes through. This prevents blood from flowing backward. However, if the valve weakens or becomes damaged then the blood may begin to pool as it struggles to flow in the correct direction. Over time the blood collects and branches out, causing veins to exhibit their “spider web” appearance. 

Risk Factors

Spider veins disproportionately affect older women. One study found 41% of women over the age of 50 reported spider veins on their lower limbs. Other risk factors include:

  • Genetics: A family history of venous insufficiency is one of the strongest indicators
  • Hormones: An increase of estrogen (such as with birth control and hormonal treatments for menopause) can weaken the vein valves
  • Pregnancy: Extra pressure on the legs as well as increased blood movement may cause spider veins. Sometimes they disappear post-pregnancy
  • Overweight: Extra body weight puts extra pressure on leg veins
  • Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet light can damage the skin and cause broken blood vessels or spider veins, particularly on the face
  • Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Veins in your legs need to work harder to pump blood towards the heart when a person sits or stands in the same position for extended periods

 

How are spider veins removed?

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment option for spider veinsSclerotherapy is the gold-standard for spider vein removal. In this procedure, your doctor injects the damaged veins with a solution that scars and closes those veins, causing the blood to reroute through healthier veins. Over time the spider veins will begin to shrink and eventually fade or vanish altogether. Several treatments might be necessary to obtain the desired results.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), patients who undergo sclerotherapy have up to a 90% chance of a greatly improved appearance of their spider veins. “Anybody who has veins they don’t like is a good candidate [for sclerotherapy] because it’s an incredibly safe, easy procedure,” says Dr. Lisa Donofrio, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine.

A variety of healthcare professionals can perform sclerotherapy such as dermatologists, vein specialists, cosmetic surgeons, and trained nurses. Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure and does not generally require anesthesia.

Aftercare

After your procedure, you will be instructed to get up and walk around. Walking and moving your legs is important to prevent the formation of blood clots. Pain is minimal and most patients can return to their normal activities on the same day. You will be asked to wear compressions stockings for about two weeks post-procedure to maintain compression on the treated veins. You should also avoid sun exposure for a few weeks as it can lead to dark spots on the treated skin.

The treated spider veins will slowly start to disappear, with the smaller veins fading before the larger veins. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up visit one month after the procedure to determine if more sessions are needed.

Special Offer

At Sound Vascular & Vein, our certified physicians specialize in vein and vascular care. Our clinics in Federal Way, Everett, and Bellingham use only the most advanced technology in a comfortable, outpatient setting.

Spring is a great time to receive spider vein treatments before the long, hot days of summer. As a special thanks to all our wonderful patients, we are offering a springtime discount for vein treatments. Call our office at 253-268-5464 and use the code SPRING21 to receive 15% off your sclerotherapy treatment. Treatments must be booked by 5pm (PT) May 31st to receive the discount and all patients are required to attend a complimentary consultation with one of our providers to determine eligibility before treatments. We offer same day appointments so call to schedule your consultation now! For any questions about this promotion, please contact info@soundvascular.com.