4 Things To Know About Spider Vein Treatment
Spider veins aren't dangerous, and they usually aren't painful. However, some people don't like the way these prominent veins look. Spider veins are usually a deep red, purple, or blue color. They look like spiderwebs beneath the surface of the skin, and they usually occur on patients' thighs and calves. Spider veins won't disappear on their own, but a dermatologist can provide treatment to eradicate them. Here are four things you need to know about spider vein treatment.
1. Spider veins can be removed without surgery.
Whenever possible, doctors try to choose the least invasive treatment option. Spider vein treatment is minimally invasive. The two most common types of treatment are sclerotherapy and laser therapy. Sclerotherapy is performed using a series of injections. Laser therapy utilizes the heat and targeting power of lasers to eradicate unwanted spider veins. You won't have to go under the knife for your spider vein procedure, which means you will not experience any scarring as a result of your treatment.
2. Sclerotherapy will close spider veins.
Sclerotherapy is many dermatologists' first choice for spider vein treatment. During sclerotherapy, your doctor will first clean the injection site using an antiseptic. They will then inject sclerosant fluid into your veins using a thin hypodermic needle. This sclerosant fluid will cause the inner walls of your veins to stick together, which will prevent blood flow. When blood is unable to flow through the treated veins, they will eventually close completely, and your body will reabsorb them.
3. Laser ablation is a needle-free option.
Some patients are afraid of needles. Even though the needles used during sclerotherapy are very small, they may still provide anxiety in patients with phobias. Laser ablation is a needle-free option you can choose. Laser light will be used to heat spider veins, sealing them shut. Each vein will be targeted individually, so the length of the procedure will depend on the number of veins you need treated.
4. You may experience mild side effects.
Most patients find their spider vein treatment is quite comfortable. However, you may experience minor side effects during and directly after your treatment. It's not uncommon for patients to feel a slight burning or itching sensation during sclerotherapy. You can treat these side effects by applying ice to your legs to ease the discomfort. You may see some bruising or discoloration following your treatment. However, your skin tone should even out as your body heals.