What are spider veins?
Spider veins are blue, red or purple dilated blood vessels (small varicose veins) usually found on the face and legs. They are not considered a medical condition and are strictly a cosmetic concern.
What causes spider veins?
Facial veins - These are often a result of long term UVA exposure or Rosacea.
Leg veins - Heredity, hormonal shifts (pregnancy, peri or menapause and birth control.) Usually seen after a third pregnancy, weight gain, certain medications and occupations that require standing or sitting for long periods of time.
What treatments are available for spider veins?
Since most spider veins are usually tiny and close to the surface of the skin, laser vein removal is the easiest and fastest way to treat them. For the larger buldging “feeder veins” sclerotherapy might be needed, both these procedures are minimally invasive. We have found the most successful results is combining both therapies. Dr. Cappuccino will shut down the feeder veins with sclerotheraphy which is then followed by laser to destroy the smaller veins.
How does laser work?
The laser uses a focused beam of light that has a specific target, your vein. The heat from the energy is absorbed by the lining of the blood vessels. The heat causes clotting of the blood vessel causing it to close, the body then reabsorbs it overtime.
Who are not candidates for laser treatment?
People with bleeding disorders, diabetes, have a dark tan or are taking photosensitive medications should not have this treatment.