Give a Gift CertificateSpider Veins - Back to Cosmetic Procedures
pider veins are small, thin veins which lie close to the surface of the skin.
Although these fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an
important part of it. Factors contributing to spider veins include heredity, pregnancy,
weight gain, or activities which require prolonged standing or sitting.
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Spider veins on the leg usually appear in one of three patterns: simple linear (top left); arborizing, which appear branch-like (top right); and spider, which appear as a cartwheel shape with a dark center point (bottom). |
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Spider veins manifest themselves as reddish or purplish lines upon the thighs, and they can sometimes be so numerous as to be cosmetically disfiguring. These veins are usually treated by sclerotherappy. For this procedure, a number of injectible substances can be used. The solutions irritate the sides of the veins badly enough that the veins collapse and slowly wither away.
Not all veins, however, respond to injections equally well. Some may require several injections to achieve the desired result. The procedure can be done in the office and can take from 15-45 minutes. Tight-fitting support hose will help with vein collapse. Most patients can return to work immediately afterward.