Spider Veins

Spider veins are very small and shallow surface veins which have become dilated (stretched out) and ceased to function properly either due to a hereditary weakness in the wall of the vein, a valvular problem, or another precipitating factor. They are more prevalent in females than males and can be quite a cosmetic problem. In spite of all of the publicity laser treatment has received recently, it has many disadvantages over compression sclerotherapy. Some of the disadvantages (as compared to sclerotherapy) include:

• Poor success rate
• Treatment is often painful
• Skin discoloration is possible
• No sun exposure allowed before or after treatment
• Can not be performed on darker skin colors

It is our opinion that compression sclerotherapy remains the gold standard for the treatment of spider veins. Treatment is relatively simple and in skilled hands is associated with only minimal discomfort if any at all. With each session you will be asked to indicate which areas are most bothersome to you. We will continue to treat these areas until you have achieved your desired result. It is important to note that several treatments will most likely be necessary. In our experience, most cases will require at least six to eight treatments before reaching an acceptable result. The more severe the problem, the more treatment will be necessary.

Please realize that spider veins are a chronic and recurrent problem. There is no "cure". Even though the treated veins will not recur, new veins can (and most likely will) develop requiring further treatment.

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