Spider veins are the small blue, red or purple blood vessels that appear near the surface of your skin, typically on the legs or face. Unlike varicose veins, which are larger, deeper and sometimes bulging, spider veins look like willowy tree branches or spider webs.

While they are rarely a medical concern, spider veins can occasionally cause discomfort. Typically they are a cosmetic concern that affects women. In fact, about one third of adult women get them at some point in their lives. Other causes include hereditary, pregnancy, increasing age and lifestyle or occupational factors (for those who stand or sit a lot during the day).

Fortunately, they can be easily treated. These two options are available at La Chele Medical Aesthetics:

This common treatment for spider veins and varicose veins has been used for the past 60 years. Using a very thin needle, a mild FDA-approved solution is injected into the unwanted vein causing it to collapse and fade from view. Treatments typically take 20 to 45 minutes depending on the number of injections needed, the number of spider veins, and how long the individual wants to undergo treatments at one session.

The injections tend to cause minimal discomfort although some people might experience a slight to moderate burning sensation immediately after the injection. A compression stocking is usually applied following treatment. It is advisable to not do strenuous exercise for 48 hours post treatment.

You may require a number of repeat injections over a period of weeks to ensure they are fully sclerosed and not visible. Most patients can expect at least a 75 per cent improvement in their treated veins. Certain vessels will not respond to sclerotherapy and are usually treated using a laser vein treatment. Sclerotherapy can provide a pleasing cosmetic outcome and may be associated with improvement of lower extremity circulation.

A high-speed, high-powered laser can reduce the appearance of superficial vessels as well as small blue, red and purple veins. The laser delivers a strong burst of light to the vein, which heats the blood within the leg vein. The heat of the blood affects the vessel lining, which causes the vessel to constrict and eventually fade from view.

Laser leg vein treatments are skin-safe and comfortable. Immediately after the treatment you will notice that the vessel may disappear, may darken and over time will shrink. The surrounding skin may turn pink and be slightly swollen for up to 24 hours. Often more than one treatment is necessary to achieve full clearance of leg veins. We recommend the use of support hose during the week following treatment.

After a complimentary consultation and analysis of your particular spider veins, Dr. Lisa Espinoza will discuss which treatment modality will best suit your needs. Please contact Dr. Espinoza at La Chele Medical Aesthetics at 609-773-0770.