Treat Those Unwanted Spider Veins

Spider Veins

What are spider veins? Spider veins appear as red or purple thread-like structures on the skin surface and can occur on the face, neck, chest, and legs. They are superficial blood vessels that are found in almost everybody. In the legs, they can be found alone or in combination with varicose veins. Alone, they are not a health risk but often are a cosmetic concern. Spider veins are generally an inherited condition occurring when small capillaries dilate on the surface of the skin. There are larger veins called reticular or “feeder” veins that are the source of spider veins. Spider veins can worsen for a variety of reasons. As we age, the majority of us will see our small veins increasingly dilate just underneath the skin’s surface. Women are more commonly affected than men. There are many contributing factors, such as familial history, weight fluctuations, prolonged sitting or standing, heavy lifting, hormonal changes, and limited exercise.

Laser varicose vein removal (spider vein) offers a non-surgical solution for removing spider and reticular leg veins in less than 30 minutes with long-lasting results. More importantly, it is an alternative to surgical vein removal, which leaves no incision scars and doesn’t require a lengthy recovery. Many patients experience immediate improvement in the appearance of their veins following the treatment followed by continued improvement over the next couple of weeks. A series of treatments may be needed to fully clear blood vessels and reduce the appearance of the veins completely.

HOW MANY SPIDER VEIN TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Two to three sessions are usually required to achieve the maximum outcome, however, the number of treatments varies for different parts of the body as per every patient’s unique case.

WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT TO SEE AFTER SPIDER VEIN REMOVAL TREATMENTS?

Our distinctive treatment approach will improve your appearance and, like with many patients, your self-confidence. The veins will begin to appear lighter after each session. The appearance of the vessels will continue to improve for up to two months after treatment.

We provide important post-care steps for all our patients to use only the recommended products and practices for the first 72 hours and avoid touching the skin to pick, remove, or pull at any darkened lesions to avoid scarring.

NOTE: If you are trying to conceive, pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently undergone major surgery you are not a candidate for laser services as it poses significant risks in such situations.

Prepping

For treatment of the legs, shave the area and do not apply moisturizers on the day of the appointment for a more comfortable experience. For facial treatment, please shave any facial hair just prior to your appointment. Avoid sun exposure and do not use any tanning treatments. Appointment will be rescheduled if you have just experienced tanning or sunburn, as it may cause sensitivity to the newly altered skin colour.

Post Care

Use plenty of ice as you can expect treated areas to remain somewhat red and swollen for the first 24 to 72 hours. Temporary red scabbing is expected and a sign of successful treatment. It may form under the skin for a few weeks which will be eventually reabsorbed by the body. This is expected and an indicator of successful treatment. Other side effects can include: Swelling & redness lasting up to 1 week Brown spots or hemosiderin staining caused by a release of iron from the re-absorption of veins and may sustain for up to 6 months. Temporary bruising will dissipate within a matter of days or weeks depending on each individual.