Spider veins were so named because the way they appear just under the skin often resembles the pattern of a spider web. Typically they’re small and are most often seen on the face or legs. These tiny blood vessels can appear red, purple or blue in color and seem to twist and turn in a cluster, very close to the skin’s surface.
While they predominantly represent a cosmetic issue and are generally harmless, there can be some pain associated with spider veins. Some patients mention burning or aching, specifically after standing for a long period of time.
Spider Vein Removal Options
Sclerotherapy is considered one of the most effective methods for removed spider veins. In this method, the doctor injects a sclerosing agent, often a saline solution, into the spider veins. This causes them to scar, and blood is re-routed through healthier veins. Within a few weeks, the damaged veins collapse and fade away.
Sclerotherapy is not only effective in removing spider veins, but it can also be done in the doctor’s office and requires no anesthesia.
Sometimes, more than one round of injections may be necessary. A very fine needle is used, so the procedures are not particularly painful. Your results should last for about two years. If you begin to see spider veins forming again, you’ll need to consider maintenance treatments in order to remain free from spider veins.
Side effects from sclerotherapy can include:
- Itching
- Swelling
- Stinging or burning
- Bruising
- Raised bumps in treatment area
- Allergic reaction to solution used
- Changes in skin color
Laser treatment uses strong pulses of light energy into the veins, causing a similar result as sclerotherapy. The spider veins just fade away, eventually disappearing entirely.
This method of spider vein removal is not quite as effective as sclerotherapy, especially if the veins being treated are larger than typical spider veins. Laser therapy is often a bit more expensive compared to sclerotherapy but remains a good choice for individuals who have allergies to the solutions used in sclerotherapy or for the treatment of very delicate areas.
Laser treatment requires no needles, injections or incisions. It’s important to note that the spider veins will fade significantly, but may never completely disappear. It’s also possible for new spider veins to develop later in the same treatment area.
Side effects from laser treatment can include:
- Bruising
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itching
- Scarring
- Permanent changes in skin tone
Lesser known methods are also available, but not used nearly as much. One is a variation of sclerotherapy called cryo-sclerotherapy, which involves blasting cool air to numb the skin first, making the injections completely painless.
Another variation is called foam sclerotherapy. As the name suggests, this method uses foam, which clings to the wall of the veins. It can take longer to see results with foam sclerotherapy, and it’s most often used on larger veins.
Final Thoughts About Spider Vein Removal
Regardless of which method appeals to you the most, it’s important not to rush in to have a treatment performed without doing some due diligence first. Find a physician who is board-certified, either in dermatology or vascular or cosmetic surgery, and one who has experience in spider vein removal.
Have a discussion about what you can expect, since your results are often affected by your age and the size of your spider veins. But take heart, most people who want to get rid of their spider veins eventually do become spider vein free!
