Spider Vein Treatment

Spider vein treatment is a combination of surgical and non-surgical treatments to reduce or remove the clusters of damaged small blood vessels in the skin. Spider vein treatment is a safe, effective, and relatively painless treatment method. It typically involves injecting a solution into each affected vein, causing the clustered blue, red, or purple veins to fade or collapse. However, several other treatment modalities are also available, depending on how serious your symptoms are. In most cases, spider veins are harmless twisted clusters of veins, and their treatment is mostly done for cosmetic reasons to improve their appearance. Occasionally, they may become painful or present as early signs of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

What is Spider Vein Treatment?
Types
Why Should I Get Spider Vein Treatment?
What are Concerns for Spider Vein Treatment?
Steps to getting your procedure
Cost of Spider Vein Treatment
Why Yes Doctor for Spider Vein Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes Doctor’s Plastic Surgery Procedure Spider Vein Treatment

What is Spider Vein Treatment?

Spider vein treatment is a procedure to remove or reduce the appearance of small, thin veins on the skin's surface, often using injections or laser therapy.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small, thin veins that can be seen just below the skin's surface. They often appear in a web-like pattern and can be red, blue, or purple. While they are generally harmless, spider veins can be a source of embarrassment for many people. They can cause discomfort or pain in some cases. Fortunately, several treatment options are available for those who wish to get rid of spider veins.

Causes of Spider Veins

Various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged standing or sitting, can cause spider veins. They occur when the small valves in the veins become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool in the veins and making them more visible.

Difference between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

While spider veins and varicose veins are often used interchangeably, they are two different conditions. Spider veins are smaller, thinner veins closer to the skin's surface. In comparison, varicose veins are larger, swollen, deeper veins in the body. Varicose veins are often more noticeable and can cause more severe symptoms, such as swelling, pain, and aching.

Spider vein treatment can help address both cosmetic and health concerns. From a cosmetic standpoint, treatment can help improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the appearance of spider veins. It can be especially beneficial for those self-conscious about the appearance of their legs or other areas of the body.

In addition to the cosmetic benefits, spider vein treatment can help address health concerns. In some cases, spider veins can cause discomfort, pain, or swelling in the affected area. Treatment can help alleviate these symptoms and improve overall comfort and mobility.

Several treatment options are available for spider veins, including sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and radiofrequency ablation. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a special solution into the affected vein. This solution causes the vein to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. If a person has multiple spider veins, multiple injections will be needed to treat each vein. 

Laser therapy and radiofrequency ablation use heat energy to destroy the affected vein, causing it to shrink and disappear over time. 

Overall, spider vein treatment can be an effective way to address both cosmetic and health concerns related to spider veins. If you are experiencing discomfort or embarrassment due to spider veins, it may be worth talking to a healthcare provider to learn more about your treatment options. You can achieve smoother, more comfortable skin with the right treatment and regain your confidence.

Types

  • Which Spider Vein Treatment is Right for You?

    Choosing the right type of spider vein treatment can be overwhelming, as there are several factors to consider, such as the severity of the spider veins, their location, and the patient's medical history.

    Depending on how serious your symptoms and how extensive your spider veins are, your doctor may recommend multiple treatments or no treatment at all. New spider veins are also likely to reappear even after treatment, or you may need more than one treatment session.

    However, treatment goals are to relieve symptoms, improve the appearance of legs and other body areas, and prevent serious complications such as skin ulcers or sores, skin color changes, deep vein thrombosis, and bleeding.

    Wearing a properly fitting support hose (elasticized compression stockings) is the most conservative treatment, especially when the veins don't have symptoms. Talking to your doctor about the right compression level for you is important. 

    Moreover, elevation of the legs may also relieve symptoms. Advice about regular exercise sounds practical but is not supported by any evidence. People who are overweight should lose weight as weight loss may reduce symptoms and make any intervention easier and safer (but losing too much weight may make varicose veins more visible).

    Let's look closely into different treatment options for spider veins, each with its benefits and downsides:

  • Sclerotherapy

    Sclerotherapy is considered the first-line treatment for spider veins in the legs. It works by injecting sclerosing agents (irritants that cause inflammation) into the vessels. The sclerosing agent causes the vein walls to swell, stick together and seal, stopping blood flow. As a result, the vein fades within a few weeks.

    Sclerotherapy is a popular method of treating spider veins, and some studies have reported good improvement in 50% - 70% of patients. Common side effects of sclerotherapy include temporary hyperpigmentation, ulcers, sloughing, allergy, blood clotting, swelling, and pain. More serious but rare complications include blood clots in veins, life-threatening allergic reactions, and temporary visual disturbance.

  • Laser treatment

    Laser therapy is a non-invasive method of treating spider veins with a diameter less than that of a 30-gauge needle. It is also an option for patients with spider veins on the face, thus unsuitable for sclerotherapy. Patients who are allergic to sclerosing agents or who are needle-phobic may also be prescribed this treatment.

    Laser therapy is delivered via a hand-held device. This treatment modality relies on the target heating up by absorbing light energy in the laser. The target will only absorb the laser energy if its wavelength matches the chromophore of the target, i.e., the target must be of the appropriate color. It means that by varying the wavelength of the laser, different chromophores (and, therefore, different structures) can be selectively targeted while avoiding damage to surrounding structures.

    In spider vein therapy, the light energy is absorbed by hemoglobin in the damaged vessels. The vessels heat up and seal block due to clot formation by photocoagulation (blood clotting due to an intense laser beam).

    Various lasers are available for treating spider veins, each with advantages, drawbacks, and specific use.

  • Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)

    Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat spider veins in the legs. It involves using a thin laser fiber inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. The laser energy is then directed at the vein, causing it to heat up and seal shut.

    EVLT is considered a safe and effective treatment for spider veins. It has several advantages over traditional vein stripping surgery, including a faster recovery time, less pain and discomfort, and minimal scarring.

    After the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. However, these side effects usually resolve within a few days. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and to wear compression stockings for a few weeks after the procedure to aid in healing and prevent blood clots.

  • Radiofrequency ablation

    In radiofrequency-based spider vein treatment, a thin tube, called a catheter, is inserted into the vein through a small cut (incision). Then a transducer is guided into the catheter. The transducer sends out electromagnetic waves (radio waves). These waves produce heat that is used to seal off the veins.

    This treatment option is typically performed on an outpatient basis and takes less than an hour to complete. Radiofrequency-based spider vein treatment is considered safe and effective, with minimal pain and discomfort during the procedure and a relatively short recovery time.

Why Should I Get Spider Vein Treatment?

Spider veins are generally harmless and asymptomatic; most patients seek treatment to reduce or remove them for cosmetic reasons. However, they can be sought after for functional concerns too. 

From a cosmetic point of view, spider veins can be unsightly. They may cause self-consciousness or embarrassment, especially in visible areas such as the legs or face. Many people seek spider vein treatment for aesthetic reasons, as it can improve the appearance of the affected area and boost their self-confidence.

In addition to cosmetic reasons, spider vein treatment may be necessary for functional reasons. For example, spider veins can cause discomfort, such as itching, burning, or swelling, affecting a person's quality of life. In some cases, spider veins may also indicate underlying venous disease, leading to more serious health issues if left untreated.

The 'Worth it' rating of spider veins treatment depends on the individual's specific situation and goals. For some people, the cosmetic benefits of spider vein treatment may be worth the cost and potential risks. For others, the functional benefits of relieving discomfort or preventing more serious health issues may be the primary concern.

You may undergo spider vein treatment for the following reasons

  • Cosmetic improvement
  • Discomfort or pain relief
  • Swelling or inflammation reduction
  • Improved circulation
  • Preventive measure against future complications

What are Concerns for Spider Vein Treatment?

Spider vein treatment therapies have become increasingly popular in recent years because these treatment modalities are minimally invasive and usually do not cause side effects. However, like any other clinical procedure, they also carry mild risks. These complications can vary in severity, from minor discomfort to more serious health risks. Some potential causes of spider vein treatment complications include pain, bruising, swelling, skin discoloration, infection, and nerve damage. More severe complications, such as blood clots or allergic reactions, can occur in rare cases. If left unaddressed, these risks can turn into life-altering concerns. It is essential to discuss any potential risks or concerns with your healthcare provider before undergoing spider vein treatment to ensure that the benefits of the therapy outweigh the potential risks. With proper precautions and monitoring, most people can undergo spider vein treatment safely and effectively. However, it is always important to be aware of the potential complications and to seek medical attention if any concerns arise. Read on to look closely into the common complications arising from spider vein treatment

  • Swelling and Bruising

    When the needle goes into the vein, there is a risk of developing minor trauma in the surrounding tissue after sclerotherapy. This trauma can lead to swelling and bruises, which typically resolve within a few days to weeks. Swelling and bruising usually do not require any specific treatment. However, a few simple steps can help reduce the severity of these side effects. For example, applying ice packs to the treated area immediately after the procedure can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Wearing compression stockings can also help to minimize swelling and promote healing. In rare cases, swelling and bruising after sclerotherapy may be more severe and require medical intervention. The swelling may be a sign of infection if it is accompanied by redness, warmth, or fever. In that case, you should seek immediate medical attention.

  • Recurrence

    The spider veins that are treated won't return. However, the body is constantly forming new blood vessels as a natural part of healing, so new spider veins will likely appear on the skin's surface. Several factors can contribute to the development of new spider veins, including genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors such as standing or sitting for long periods. While it is not always possible to prevent the development of new spider veins entirely, some simple steps can be taken to minimize their appearance and reduce the risk of developing more spider veins in the future: maintaining a healthy weight exercising regularly avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing

  • Health risks

    Some of the potential health risks associated with spider vein treatment include: Infection: Every time a needle is inserted into the skin, there is a risk of infection. It's important to take care of the treatment site to minimize the risk of infection. Damage to the blood vessel: During the spider vein treatment, the doctor uses a needle or laser to damage the blood vessel. While this is necessary to treat spider veins, there is a risk of damaging surrounding blood vessels in the area. Inflammation of the vein: The treated vein may sometimes become inflamed after the procedure, causing pain and discomfort, but it usually goes away within a few days. Heat damage to nerves: In rare cases, the heat generated during laser treatment can damage the nerves in the treated area, causing numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, which may be transient or permanent.

Steps to getting your procedure

Research-icon

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Cost of Spider Vein Treatment

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of spider vein treatment through sclerotherapy is $413. In contrast, treating spider veins in legs through laser therapy is $312. The average cost is just a part of the actual cost because the actual cost depends on many other factors, such as: Stocking and compression garments charges Pre and post-treatment consultation charges The geographical location of the provider's office Treatment facility charges Medicines cost (if applicable) Another contributing factor to the overall cost of the procedure is the number of sessions required to treat spider veins. Since spider veins have a potential chance of recurrence, multiple sessions may be required to address the concern and obtain optimal results. Moreover, the more extensive spider veins need multiple sessions or injections, adding to the cost. Spider vein treatment is rarely a health concern and is mostly done for cosmetic reasons; therefore, health insurance companies do not cover the cost in their plan. It is necessary to carefully review your insurance policy before signing up for the procedure.

Why Yes Doctor for Spider Vein Treatment

By providing affordable, accessible, convenient, and flexible financing options, Yes Doctor can help patients receive the spider vein treatment they need, which can improve their quality of life by reducing pain, discomfort, and self-consciousness caused by spider veins.

We offer a variety of financing options to suit different patient needs. Patients can choose from our payment plans with different terms and interest rates, allowing them to find the best option for their budget and financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spider vein treatment, particularly sclerotherapy, is typically not a very painful procedure. The sclerosing agent injection may cause temporary discomfort and a slight stinging sensation, but most people tolerate it well. Many patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure. However, pain tolerance can vary from person to person, and some people may experience more discomfort than others. Additionally, some patients may experience mild pain or discomfort after the procedure, which can last a few days. It may include aching, swelling, and bruising in the treated area.
Spider vein removal is typically an outpatient procedure that can be completed in a relatively short amount of time. Depending on the extent of the spider veins and the specific treatment method, the procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Sclerotherapy, a common treatment for spider veins, typically takes less than an hour to complete. Laser therapy is another common treatment option for spider veins. Like sclerotherapy, it also takes less than an hour to complete. Patients can usually return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Spider veins are generally considered a cosmetic issue rather than a medical one. As a result, treatments for spider veins are usually considered elective and not a medical necessity. It means most health insurance plans typically do not cover the spider vein treatment cost. As a result, patients who wish to undergo spider vein treatment will typically have to pay for the procedure out-of-pocket. However, as we discussed earlier, Yes Doctor and other patient financing companies can help make the treatment more affordable by providing financing options and payment plans.
The results of sclerotherapy for spider veins typically begin to show within 3 to 6 weeks after the procedure. During this time, the treated veins gradually fade and disappear as the body absorbs the injected sclerosing agent. Laser therapy can only work on extremely small and thin spider veins and it may take multiple sessions to see impovement. After laser treatment, the blood vessels gradually fade over six weeks. However, it's important to note that the rate of improvement can vary from person to person, and some patients may see results sooner or later than the 3 to 6 weeks timeframe. Additionally, some patients may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.