Spider Vein Treatment
What
are Spider Veins?
Spider veins, or “starbursts,” are so named
because these tiny veins just beneath the skin often radiate out from a central
point, reminiscent of the shape of a spider. They may also appear as fine,
separate lines, as a web-like maze, or as “branches” from a single “trunk” of a
tree-shaped form. Spider veins can develop on any part of the body, including
the face, thighs, calves, and ankles.
Although their exact cause is unknown, it is known
that spider veins are related to abnormal blood flow in the affected veins. Any
condition or activity that puts pressure on leg veins (e.g., gaining weight and
sitting or standing for long periods of time), can contribute to their
development. In women, spider veins often appear during pregnancy. Other
contributing factors include sustaining an injury in the affected area, taking
medications that affect hormones, such as birth control pills, advanced age, and
a family history of spider veins. Spider veins on the nose or face, which
typically appear as unsightly red or pink clusters, may also be related to
overexposure to the sun.
Although many spider veins in other parts of the
body are most often removed through a process called
sclerotherapy, facial spide, facial spider veins are usually too
small to be effectively treated in this way. When the veins are small and close
to the skin’s surface, laser removal is often the most effective treatment.
Benefits
of Laser Therapy for Spider Veins.
The laser is used to selectively target and
destroy the red coloration of the spider veins, which are usually close to the
surface of the skin, without damaging the surrounding tissue. The procedure is
relatively quick, and no anesthesia is needed. After treatment, the skin can be
noticeably more uniform and natural in appearance.
How much
pain can I expect?
You may feel a slight burning or stinging
sensation as the laser penetrates your skin. However, pain is minimal and no
anesthesia is required. Many patients liken the feeling to a rubber band
snapping on the skin.
What is
the recovery like?
You may experience some redness and swelling of
the treated area, which should disappear within a few days. Generally, the veins
will turn a purple color that resembles a small bruise, and then gradually fade
within 5-10 days. Ice packs are usually recommended to reduce the swelling.
Frozen aloe vera gel is also commonly used.
What are
the long term results?
Although laser removal of spider veins may not
erase all imperfections in the skin, most patients are satisfied with the
results. After treatment, the unsightly red veins are significantly diminished
and the skin is returned to a more natural, uniform state. It is important to
remember, however, that laser removal does not deter the normal effects of aging
and that treatment does not prevent the occurrence of new spider veins.
Before
and After Photographs
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