Spider Veins Raleigh
Leg spider veins appear as wavy, thin, reddish-purple lines. They often cluster on thighs or below knees. Spider veins, or telangiectasias, affect as many as 80 percent of all women as they age, and a large percentage of men, too. Causes are typically genetic but may also include pregnancy, childbirth, use of birth-control pills, estrogen-replacement, previous injury and use of corticosteroids. Although spider veins don’t usually present a medical problem, they’re no fun when it comes to wearing a bathing suit or pair of shorts.
Skin & Cosmetic Solutions uses sclerotherapy to treat leg spider veins. This well-proven procedure used safely for years that involves an injection of sotradecol with a very fine needle directly into the spider vein. The solution irritates the vessel’s lining so it to swells and sticks together, causing the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel fades from view. Spider veins typically respond to sclerotherapy within three to six weeks.
The number of veins injected during one session varies, depending on the vein’s size and location, and the patient’s overall medical condition. Repeated treatments are typical and patients experience 75 to 80 percent improvement upon completion of all treatments.
During this process, treatment areas often look worse before they look better. Mild bruising is common and some swelling may also occur, particularly if a large number of vessels around the feet and ankles are treated. Tiny vessels (telangiectatic matting) or blush areas may also appear at the perimeter of the treated area and persist for several weeks. In rare cases, they become permanent. Brown streaks may appear, but this pigment usually goes away but can darken with sunlight. Therefore, patients should stay out of the sun while undergoing treatment. Infrequently, small ulcers occur, but scarring is extremely rare.
Spider Vein Treatment FAQs
How common are spider veins?
Spider veins are quite common. Research has shown that 80-85 percent of people develop spider veins. They are dilated superficial blood vessels, like varicose veins, but spider veins are closer to the skin. They are most common on the calves and ankles, but can also appear on the face.
Does insurance cover spider vein treatment?
While insurance usually does cover the removal of varicose veins, as they can present various health concerns and can be painful. Spider veins, on the other hand, are considered cosmetic nuisances, as they don’t lead to other health problems and aren’t painful. Because of this designation, insurance does not cover their treatment.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for spider vein treatment?
Sclerotherapy is a very successful treatment method, and it is how we treat spider veins at Skin & Cosmetic Solutions. You don’t need to prepare for this treatment in any way.
Is there recovery after spider vein treatment?
If you’ve had multiple spider veins injected, Dr. Puente will likely advise you to wear compression stockings for up to two weeks. This compression helps the body begin the process of absorbing the closed off veins. You may have slight bruises at some of the injection sites if you’re prone to bruising, but these will clear within a couple days. Otherwise, you can get right back to your normal activities immediately after your appointment.
Why do I need to get my spider veins removed?
While no one needs to get their spider veins removed, as they are not a health risk, most people don’t like the purple, blue, and red squiggly lines coursing about on the skin of their legs. Spider veins can make a person avoid wearing shorts, bathing suits, and sundresses, and in sunny Raleigh that’s a crime!
How many treatments will I need to remove my spider veins?
Different veins respond in different ways. Some disappear in a single treatment, noticeably lessening in appearance immediately upon injection of the sclerosant and then completely vanishing in a few weeks as the body scavenges the closed off vein. Other veins may be more stubborn and may take 2-3 treatments to fully clear.
