Spider veins are very small clusters of uneven and thin veins that look like small branches of a tree or a spider’s web. These veins usually appear right below the skin’s surface in the lower legs, thighs, and at times, on the face. They may look purple, red, or blue on the skin.
Unsightly Skin Appearance
Spider veins can lead to an unappealing skin appearance. In comparison to varicose veins, these veins are smaller in size. However, they tend to increase progressively in number and visibility with age. These veins typically have a branching pattern due to stretched blood vessels.
To help eliminate spider veins, patients may consider an advanced injectable procedure known as sclerotherapy. This is a safe and effective in-office procedure that can successfully treat spider veins. At times, the doctor may recommend laser vein treatment as well to eliminate these unattractive veins.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides spider vein treatments to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding locations.
Ideal Candidates
Suitable candidates for spider vein treatment have the following characteristics:
- Spider veins are visible in a branching or web-like pattern on the legs or thighs
- An intricate pattern of branching veins is apparent on certain facial areas, which the patient is striving to hide
- The patient believes the appearance of spider veins is an aging sign and is displeased about it
If left untreated, spiders veins can sometimes cause pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. Cutting-edge medical spa treatments can remove these unattractive spider veins in a nonsurgical manner.
Causes
The treatment provider will try to assess the possible underlying reason for the appearance of the spider veins as an initial step in the treatment plan. Many patients develop spider veins as the vein valve becomes compromised or weakened causing an obstruction in blood flow.
The blood accumulates in the veins giving rise to the appearance of spider veins. Spider veins can develop due to genetic factors, aging, hormonal fluctuations, trauma, or long hours of standing over several years.
Treatments
Sclerotherapy is a proven, injectable procedure to address spider veins. The vein specialist will inject a sclerosant solution directly into the impacted veins using fine needles.
Upon being injected, the solution causes irritation to the vein walls. This disrupts the vein valve and gradually causes the vein to collapse. Blood supply obstruction to the vein leads to its elimination revealing smoother skin.
Laser or Light Based Treatment
IPL or laser treatments can treat spider veins in a targeted and noninvasive way. This treatment approach is ideal for removing damaged veins from sensitive areas such as the face. Sometimes the doctor may recommend a combination of laser and sclerotherapy for the removal of spider veins.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas for spider vein treatment.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.