A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including hormones, heredity, pregnancy, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and the use of some medications.
Spider veins usually take on one of the three basic patterns. They may appear in a true spider shape with a group of veins radiating outward from a dark central point; they may be arborizing and will resemble tiny branch-like shapes; or they may be simple linear and appear as thin separate lines. Linear spider veins are commonly seen on the inner knee, whereas the arborizing pattern often appears on the outer thigh in a sunburst or cartwheel distribution.
Varicose veins differ from spider veins in a number of ways. Varicose veins are larger - usually more than a quarter-inch in diameter, darker in color and tend to bulge. Varicose veins are also more likely to cause pain and be related to more serious vein disorders. For some patients, sclerotherapy can be used to treat varicose veins. However, often surgical treatment is necessary for this condition.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Spider veins are treated in two ways: sclerotherapy and laser treatments remain the standard. Both options are offered at Aesthetique. During your consultation it will be determined which type of treatment will be most effective for your spider veins.
SCLEROTHERAPY
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure developed almost 150 years ago to eradicate unwanted, non-functional leg veins. In this rather simple procedure, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling and night cramps.
Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance and your self confidence, but it's unrealistic to believe that every affected vein will disappear completely as a result of treatment. After each sclerotherapy session, the veins will appear lighter. Two or more sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results.
Frequently asked questions about Sclerotherapy
How does sclerotherapy work?
Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure in which a solution (called a sclerosing agent) is injected into the unwanted veins with a very tiny needle. The needle used is so small that the sensation is barely noticeable; typically no worse than a mosquito bite. The most commonly used sclerosing agents are hypertonic saline and Polidocanol. These solutions make the insides of the vein’s walls stick together like a drinking straw being pinched between your fingers. Over a few weeks, the veins close up, shrink away, and are absorbed by the body so that they are no longer visible.
Who is a candidate for Sclerotherapy?
You are a candidate for sclerotherapy if you have spider veins, reticular varicosities, recurrence of varicosities, are advanced in age, or any combination of these. You should be aware that sclerotherapy treats only those veins that are currently visible; it does nothing to permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins from surfacing in the future.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be advised to postpone sclerotherapy treatment. In most cases, spider veins that surface during pregnancy will disappear on their own within three months after the baby is born. Also, because it's not known how sclerosing solutions may affect breast milk, nursing mothers are usually advised to wait until after they have stopped breastfeeding.
Spider veins in men aren't nearly as common as they are in women. Men who do have spider veins often don't consider them to be a cosmetic problem because the veins are usually concealed by hair growth on the leg. However, sclerotherapy is just as effective for men who seek treatment.
What is the procedure like?
A typical sclerotherapy session is relatively quick, lasting approximately 20-30 minutes. Prior to treatment, the veins are photographed and the skin is cleansed with an antiseptic. Approximately one injection is administered for every inch of spider vein - anywhere from 5-40 injections is typical. The needle used is so small and the sclerosing solution is so mild that discomfort is minimal. Dressings are not usually required following treatment, but cotton balls and compression tape may be applied for a short period of time following treatment of larger veins.
How many treatments will be needed?
The number of treatments needed is determined by the severity of the problem. Usually two or more sessions performed at 4-6 week intervals are required to achieve optimal results.
What results can be expected?
After 2-3 treatments most patients can expect noticeable improvement. Fading is gradual, with most veins slowly disappearing over several weeks. Sclerotherapy only works on those veins that are visible at the time of treatment; it does not prevent new veins from surfacing in the future. If necessary, touch-up treatments are performed.
What can patients expect following treatment?
In addition to compression tape and cotton applied during the procedure, tight fitting compression hose are prescribed to guard against blood clots and to promote healing. The tape and cotton balls can be removed after 48 hours. However, you are to wear the compression hose for four to six weeks for eight hours daily.
It’s common to experience some cramping in the legs for the first day or two after the injections. This temporary problem usually doesn’t require medication.
You should be aware that your treated veins will look worse before they begin to look better. When compression dressings are removed, you may notice bruising and reddish areas at the injection sites. The bruises usually diminish within one month.
If traveling over 30 minutes to the office, have someone else drive so that you can move your feet and legs around. This is beneficial following the treatment.
You will be able to maintain normal activities. Walk at least one hour daily—the more the better. However, avoid standing idle for long periods of time.
Avoid hot baths for 2 weeks. Cool your legs with cold water after each shower.
Wear the support stockings as instructed. After healing, you may use them for long trips or when you legs ache.
Avoid strenuous physical activities such as high impact aerobics or weight lifting for the first 72 hours.