Spider veins, or small clusters of veins that appear on the legs, can be a nuisance for many women. These veins can cause patients to be self-conscious and avoid wearing shorts or high-cut dresses. In Farmington Hills, we offer a treatment option to lessen the appearance of these veins.
What is Spider Vein Treatment?
Spider veins can develop on the thighs, calves, and ankles due to various factors. Heredity, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and participating in activities that require prolonged sitting or standing can all contribute to the formation of spider veins. Spider vein treatment, also known as sclerotherapy, can lessen the appearance of these veins.
I’ve been a patient here for about 4 years, and I couldn’t be more pleased. The staff is really nice, and appointments are 90% on time, and the doctor is really great. He doesn’t over prescribe/offer unneeded treatments, and he is really just a nice guy. 10/10, 100% recommended.”
Who is a Good Candidate for Spider Vein Treatment?
Patients that are bothered by the appearance of superficial spider veins can often benefit from sclerotherapy. However, those with larger varicose veins should not receive this treatment. A consultation can help to determine if this procedure can benefit you.
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How to Prevent Spider Veins
Preventing spider veins involves supporting healthy circulation and minimizing pressure on the legs. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting can all help reduce your risk. Wearing compression stockings and elevating your legs can also improve blood flow and reduce strain on your veins. If you have a family history of vein issues, consider consulting with a vein specialist to discuss early prevention strategies.
Treatments for Spider Veins
Several effective treatments are available to minimize or eliminate the appearance of spider veins. Non-surgical options like sclerotherapy and laser therapy target and collapse unwanted veins, allowing them to fade over time. These procedures are typically performed in-office with little to no downtime. A consultation with a vein specialist can help determine the most appropriate treatment for your skin type and vein severity.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy treats spider veins by using focused light to heat and collapse the targeted blood vessels. The body then absorbs the treated veins, causing them to fade over time. It’s a quick, non-invasive option with minimal downtime, ideal for small veins on the face or legs.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a common, minimally invasive procedure used to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. It involves injecting a special solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to close and gradually disappear. Most patients experience little discomfort, and the treatment can be completed in under 30 minutes. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results, depending on the extent of the veins.
Before Your Spider Vein Treatment
Before undergoing spider vein treatment, it’s important to attend a consultation to discuss your medical history and treatment goals. Patients are typically advised to avoid sun exposure, blood-thinning medications, and certain skincare products before their appointment. Wearing loose clothing and arranging for someone to drive you home, can also help ensure a smooth experience. Your provider will give you detailed instructions tailored to your specific treatment plan.
During Your Spider Vein Treatment
During treatment, a sclerosing solution made up of a diluted form of a chemical called Sotradecol will be injected into the unwanted veins. This solution irritates the vein, causing it to collapse. Patients with multiple spider veins will require multiple injections to see optimal results.
Spider Vein Treatment Recovery
Following spider vein treatment, patients may experience bruising or discoloration, which should fade within 3-4 weeks. A compressive wrap will be applied to the treatment area to help reduce swelling. Overall, patients should see full results in about two months, at which time it will be determined if further treatments are needed.
If you are in the Farmington Hills or West Bloomfield area and wish to diminish the appearance of spider veins on your legs, contact Farmington Dermatologists today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Baird.
