Should I be concerned about my Spider Veins?
Spider veins are superficial veins, blue or red in appearance, that are visible just below the surface of the skin. These superficial veins are so called as they resemble a spider web-like pattern. It is usually common for spider veins to appear in the legs although these can also be found on the face as well as on other parts of the body such as neck and chest. Spider veins are mainly considered a cosmetic issue although some people may experience discomfort and painful symptoms. Whether you want to address cosmetic concerns or discomfort, it is best to consult with a vascular surgeon, such as Dr. Michael Bardwil, who regularly performs spider vein treatments.
Are spider veins dangerous?
Unlike varicose veins that can sometimes be a red flag for a more serious medical condition, spider veins are considered harmless. Some people report an itchy or stinging sensation, but spider veins are not generally considered painful. The main reason for people wanting to get rid of spider veins is that they are unsightly which causes feelings of self-consciousness.
What treatment methods are available to treat Spider Veins?
Spider veins are highly treatable and there are several techniques available to vascular surgeons to treat the condition. Suitable treatment methods will depend on where the spider veins are found as some methods are more effective on certain parts of the body than others.
Sclerotherapy
One of the most reliable treatment methods for spider veins on legs is sclerotherapy. This form of treatment involves a vascular doctor injecting a solution or sclerosing agent into the veins aimed at closing them.
The procedure is perfectly suited to an office setting and each session may last around 20 minutes. Some patients may notice improvements after one session, but it is usual for the procedure to be repeated a few times for significant results.
The solution used in the sclerotherapy procedure can be one of two forms – liquid or foam. Foam sclerotherapy is the combined use of liquid with gas (air or carbon dioxide) to form a foamy solution. The benefit of foam sclerotherapy is that the displacement of blood from the walls of the veins is made more effective.
VeinGogh
Another treatment method that has found favor with vein doctors in the treatment of spider veins is called “VeinGogh”. The “VeinGogh” procedure belongs to the range of ohmic thermolysis devices and can be used on any skin type. The treatment offers a high degree of accuracy, minimal discomfort and has proven to be quite effective in treating spider veins found on the face. The procedure involves the use of an ultra-thin probe to penetrate the vein where it sets off micro electric bursts to heat the vein, forcing the blood to coagulate and the vessel wall to recede.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy can be used to treat spider veins on areas that include neck, chest, and face. Even though this treatment option can be used to eliminate spider veins from legs, the effectiveness is less predictable, and the vascular surgeon may opt for more effective treatment options. One of the downsides of laser therapy is that it is not suitable for all skin types.
It is highly advisable to seek a comprehensive consultation with an experienced and qualified vein specialist when seeking treatment to remove spider veins. It is critical that you make an informed decision based on facts relating to each treatment type, their pros and cons.
Why choose Texas Vein & Cosmetic Specialists
We take pride in offering all the perks of concierge vein care without making our patients pay for it. This means that the consultation, assessment, and treatment will all take place with Dr. Bardwil, a true vein specialist. One quick call is all it takes to schedule an appointment. If you live in Houston and would like to have your spider veins treated, please call today.
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