Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins, and are
sometimes referred to as telangiectasias, or sunburst varicosities. Spider
veins are tiny veins that lie just below the surface of the skin, and
are connected to your larger vein system but aren't necessary for circulation.
Telangiectasia are small, spider-like veins that appear on the face or
legs and can be either congenital or appear as part of the aging process.
Both Spider vein's and Telangiectasia are responsive to Injection Sclerotherapy.
Varicose veins are similar to spider veins, but usually refer to larger veins that bulge and although sometimes responsive to Injection Sclerotherapy, are often better treated by Laser Vein Treatment.
Injection Sclerotherapy has been used by doctors in Europe for over 50 years, but has only become popular in the United States in recent years. Some estimates place half of the adult female population of the US with this unsightly condition. Treatment can significantly diminish the appearance of existing spider veins, however, it cannot prevent new ones from occurring.
What causes spider veins?
Lots of everyday factors contribute to the problem. Some of the common
causes are occupational, like standing or sitting for extended periods
of time. Other causes can include hormonal imbalance, side effect of
medication, rapid weight gain, pregnancy, or simply heredity.
How does sclerotherapy work?
The doctor simply injects sclerosing solution into the vein, causing
it to shrink and fade from the surface of the skin. Having this treatment
can also reduce the symptoms that are commonly associated with spider
veins, including, burning, cramping and swelling. It is predictable,
effective, and largely pain free. There are very few risks involved,
but certain patients have experienced small blood clots that form in
the veins, or allergic reactions to the sclerosing solution. Another
complication that may occur is a change in pigmentation that takes
some time to fade.
Injection sclerotherapy works by intentionally damaging the lining (endothelium) of small veins. By doing this and then applying pressure the vein walls stick together. The vein can then no longer fill with blood and so it is obliterated. Microinjection sclerotherapy is used for very fine spider veins and uses a very fine needle.
Laser Vein Treatment
A laser is a highly focused beam of light. At VIP MediSpa we can use
a laser to treat varicose veins. Laser heat damages a vein, which makes
scar tissue form. This scar tissue closes the vein, and this newly
closed vein loses its source of blood and dies. After a year or two,
the vein often disappears.
Simple Laser Treatment
Until recently, laser vein treatment has been limited to spider veins
and tiny varicose veins just under the skin's surface. Usually, more
than one laser session is needed. They are scheduled every 6 to 12
weeks, as prescribed after consultation.
