|
|
To understand how spider veins are treated, you must first know how it is formed. Spider veins, just like varicose veins, is classified under a disorder called – venous insufficiency. Here, the valaves that used to prevent the blood in the veins to backflow becomes incompetent so as a result, the blood circulation is not going to one direction. Some of the blood pools into these venules or small veins and we can see these purplish or bluish creepy veins creeping visibly under the surface of our skin.
Spider veins can form under circumstances like hormone changes that accompany puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or the taking of medications such as birth control. They can be commonly found un the legs or the face. Sun exposure to fair skinned people may be the reason for appearance and in others it is simply genetic. Whatever the cause, this is a problem that about half of all men and women experience and unfortunately, it doesn’t subside.
These weak veins generally do not cause pain or discomfort and rarely is it medically necessary to treat them. But if a patient greatly desires to improve the appearance of their legs or other body parts which have been affected, fortunately, there are options available.
One treatment modalities for spider veins is the use of vein shrinking agents in the process called sclerotherapy. It is usually performed at the plastic surgeon’s office and no anesthesia is needed. A solution is injected into the veins causing them to swell, stick together, and close for good. The patient will be given approximately one injection per inch of spider vein. They will fade and disappear in just a few weeks. This does not adversely affect blood flow because their deeper larger counterparts will take over the blood flow back to the heart. This kind of surgery is very effective but may be required multiple times.
Modern surgery now is fond of using laser to zap out everything – and count spider veins in. During this procedure a laser is used to shoot bright and intense light directly at the vein, reducing the vein to nothing. Over time, the spider veins will fade and cease to be. Lasers are very accurate, quick, and effective; however the treatment may be painful. A couple of laser therapy sessions may be needed for treatment.
Laser removal or sclerotherapy or can be used exclusively or in combination with each other and other treatment options. Take not that that each candidate should discuss the procedure with their board certified plastic surgeon to determine the best treatment modalities which suits them.