Spider veins are similar to varicose veins in that they are flesh colored, purple or blue bulging veins that look like cords or tree branches. Spider veins usually are located on the legs and face. According to Women's Health.gov, spider veins are close to the skin's surface and are caused by weakened blood valves that allow the blood to back up and pool in large or small areas. Sun exposure, hormone changes and genes also can cause spider veins. There are a number of treatments for spider veins once a doctor has determined the main cause and severity of the condition.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a surgical procedure performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia. The procedure uses a special light to mark the location of the vein. Tiny hooks are placed though an incision and the vein is stripped out. There are few side effects from this treatment and patients usually return to normal activities the following day. Slight bruising and temporary numbness may occur, but scarring in minimal.
Laser Treatment
Laser surgery sends strong pulses of light through the skin to deactivate the spider veins, making them slowly fade away and disappear. According to Women'sHealth.gov, most skin types can tolerate laser surgery, which is a very accurate method of treating spider veins. No incisions are made in the skin, although patients feel a searing heat while the laser is working that can be painful. It usually takes two to five laser treatments to complete the vein removal, with each treatment lasting about 15 to 20 minutes. Patients can return to normal activities immediately following a treatment. Side effects include some scarring that dissipates within a few months and redness or swelling that goes away in a day or two.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment for spider veins. A solution injected into the vein causes it to swell and close up. Restricted blood flow turns the vein into scar tissue, which eventually fades away in a couple weeks. Some veins require more than one treatment. Microsclerotherapy, using smaller needles and a different solution, is particularly effective with small spider veins. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, one injection for every inch of vein is the norm. Both procedures can be done in the doctor's office and do not require any anesthesia. Heat and aspirin can soothe aching veins during recovery. Possible side effects from sclerotherapy include small skin sores and bruising at the site of the injection, temporary stinging and discoloration that disappears in a short time.
