Spider Vein Treatment in NY & NJ
Spider Vein Treatment
Spider veins are small, visible blood vessels that may appear blue, red or purple and often form a spiderweb-like pattern on the skin. It has been estimated that up to 55 percent of adult women and 45 percent of men develop spider veins. Additionally, patients of any age can begin to see spider veins.
While many patients seek treatment because of cosmetic concerns, spider veins may also cause symptoms such as aching, itching or burning. Women who are pregnant may also experience spider veins. Sitting or standing for a long period of time and the hot weather may cause symptoms to worsen.
Spider Vein Treatment Options: Sclerotherapy and Laser Therapy
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy works with the use of a chemical sclerosant that is injected into the vein to seal off and shut down the unneeded vein. Sclerotherapy can be used on both legs and face and can be done in the comfort of our office. In some cases, a special laser is used in conjunction with sclerotherapy.
This approach may help improve treatment results and reduce the risk of skin staining that can occur after traditional sclerotherapy.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Vein Surgeon
Most patients can return to normal activities shortly after sclerotherapy. It can be considered a “lunch time” appointment with the vein surgeon in which you can return to work from the vein clinic immediately. We ask our patients to do a lot of walking after the spider vein removal treatment, and to wear compression stockings to aid in the process.
Sclerotherapy may not be recommended for patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions. Your provider will discuss whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are spider veins?
Spider veins comprise a small group of thin blood vessels near the surface of one’s skin. Also known as reticular veins, they appear as a sunburst or spiderweb on one’s skin. Typically, spider veins are blue or red. They can be anywhere, but they appear most often on a person’s legs, face, or chest.
What causes spider veins?
Spider veins share many of the same causes as varicose veins. Heredity plays a significant factor in the development of spider veins, but other causes include weight gain, trauma, hormonal factors, pregnancy, and excessive sun exposure. Additionally, persons who must stand or sit for long periods are at higher risk of developing spider veins.
What are some symptoms of spider veins?
The most obvious symptom of spider veins is the unique spiderweb appearance that develops as a result of the twisted and turned blue and red vessels. Aesthetic reasons are why many individuals seek spider vein treatment and removal services. But there are a handful of problematic and uncomfortable symptoms that accompany spider veins’ unwanted appearance. Among these symptoms are aches and pains, heaviness, burning, itching, and night cramps.
How can I prevent spider veins?
Spider veins cannot be prevented entirely, but you can lower your risk of developing them by staying in good shape. Exercising regularly will improve your strength and circulation, which minimizes your chances of spider vein development. It is also advisable to elevate your legs when possible and avoid standing and sitting for long stretches.
What treatment options are available?
We offer multiple forms of spider vein removal and treatment, including:
Sclerotherapy
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is among the most popular spider vein treatment options. To perform this technique, our medical professionals will inject sclerosant directly into a vein to stop blood flow.
You may experience slight discomfort at the injection site for a few minutes, but the sensation will resolve on its own. There is no minimum recovery period for this method, but it is best to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week.
Treatment sessions are typically brief. Your provider can explain what to expect during your consultation.
Laser Therapy
We can also perform laser therapy techniques to heat spider veins and cause them to collapse. We will use local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process, which may include three to five sessions. There is minimal downtime following laser therapy as well.
How much do spider vein treatments cost?
Every treatment plan is unique to a patient. The cost of treatment depends on the type and number of treatments needed. Visit one of our convenient clinics for a consultation to learn more about expenses and what to expect from spider vein treatments.