You might think that spider veins are something you have to live with. But there are several minimally invasive treatments that can significantly reduce the appearance of spider veins and reduce pain and discomfort in the legs.
Spider Vein Removal – What Are Your Options
Dr. Sukir Sinnathamby is a vascular specialist in Cincinnati and the founder of Varicose to Perfect. Dr. Sinnathamby offers a wide range of treatments for spider vein removal that can be completed in an outpatient office setting in less than an hour with virtually no downtime.
Sclerotherapy Spider Vein Removal
Considered the gold standard for varicose vein removal, sclerotherapy has successfully eliminated the unsightly appearance of varicose veins in 95% of patient cases. Dr. Sinnathamby will inject a sclerosing agent into the veins, which forces them to collapse and fade from view. Normal blood flow will continue through other healthy veins.
The number of sclerotherapy treatment sessions required to achieve optimal cosmetic results will vary and is dependent on the severity of each individual case. Individual veins will usually clear after one treatment. However, multiple sessions are often needed to achieve the best cosmetic results. Sclerotherapy treatment is performed in our Springboro center, about 45 minutes from Cincinnati.
Do spider veins get worse with age?
Yes, spider veins can get worse as a person ages. As we age, more spider veins can appear on the skin. Furthermore, blood vessels lose flexibility, leading to the enlargement of the veins. This can cause them to become more visible. Moreover, aging can cause wear and tear on vein valves. Those veins help control blood flow. Hormonal fluctuations as we age can also be a factor in the development of spider veins. Overall, while age is a risk factor in the development of spider veins, other elements like genetics and obesity can play a role.
Do spider veins come back after removal?
New spider veins can appear after treatment. However, it would also not be the spider veins that your doctor treated, and they would appear in a less severe form. The underlying factors that caused the initial spider veins, such as genetics or hormonal changes, can lead to the development of new spider veins in other areas. Regular check-ups and preventive measures, such as wearing compression stockings and avoiding prolonged standing, can help manage and reduce the recurrence.
Can lasers spider vein removal work?
Absolutely. Laser treatment can be an effective method for improving the appearance of spider veins. Laser treatments target spider veins with focused light beams; they can leave the surrounding tissue unharmed. Over time, the veins the doctor treated fade away. While this method works well for smaller veins, you may need multiple sessions for the best results. Always consult with a medical doctor before undergoing any treatment.
What happens if a spider vein bursts?
If a spider vein bursts, you might experience minor bleeding or bruising in the affected area. However, it is unlikely to cause significant harm or excessive bleeding. These vessels do not significantly impact circulation when damaged. Moreover, applying gentle pressure and elevating the area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. If bleeding is excessive or does not stop, you should seek medical attention.
Do spider vein removal pens (blue light therapy) work?
The effectiveness of spider vein removal pens is not reliable. They have no guarantee. Moreover, they have limited effectiveness in many cases and provide only subtle improvements. If you want to reduce the visibility of spider veins significantly, treatments like sclerotherapy or laser therapy work far better. Most experts consider sclerotherapy’s effectiveness much better than spider vein removal pens.
Does insurance cover spider vein removal?
In general, if your spider veins are causing symptoms or are related to a medical condition, insurance may cover the treatment. However, if you want to remove spider veins for cosmetic reasons or concerns, your insurance is unlikely to cover it. Check with your insurance provider to determine what limits, exclusions, or restrictions they have.