Spider veins are small visible blood vessels that commonly appear on the legs and occasionally on the face. These veins may appear red, blue, or purple and are often a cosmetic concern for patients seeking smoother and more even skin appearance.
At DFW Skin Surgery Center, we offer treatment options for smaller superficial spider veins, including sclerotherapy and laser treatment. Larger symptomatic varicose veins or deeper venous disease may require evaluation by a vascular specialist or vein clinic.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small dilated superficial blood vessels that commonly develop on the thighs, lower legs, ankles, and around the knees. They may occur gradually over time and are often influenced by genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, prolonged standing, and pregnancy.
Unlike larger varicose veins, spider veins are usually flat or minimally raised and generally do not indicate significant underlying venous disease.
Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is one of the most common treatments for smaller leg veins. During treatment, a solution is injected directly into the affected blood vessels, causing them to gradually collapse and fade over time.
Hypertonic saline is one treatment option that may be used for selected superficial spider veins. Multiple treatment sessions may sometimes be necessary, depending on the number and size of vessels being treated.
Following treatment, temporary redness, bruising, darkening, or mild swelling may occur before gradual improvement develops.
Laser Treatment for Spider Veins
Certain superficial blood vessels may also be treated with vascular laser devices, including long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser technology. Laser treatment may be particularly helpful for some smaller vessels or areas less suitable for injection treatment.
The laser selectively targets blood vessels beneath the skin while minimizing injury to surrounding tissue. Temporary redness or swelling may occur following treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
Spider vein treatments generally require gradual improvement over several weeks. Some vessels may fade completely, while others may lighten but remain partially visible.
Compression stockings may sometimes be recommended after treatment, depending on the extent and location of treated veins.
Because new vessels may develop over time, maintenance treatments are occasionally performed in the future.
When Vein Clinic Evaluation May Be Needed
Patients with larger bulging varicose veins, leg swelling, heaviness, pain, or suspected deeper venous disease may benefit from evaluation at a specialized vein clinic or by a vascular specialist.
Our practice primarily focuses on treatment of smaller superficial spider veins and cosmetic vascular lesions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?
Spider veins are smaller superficial blood vessels that are usually cosmetic in nature, while varicose veins are larger enlarged veins that may be associated with underlying venous disease.
How many spider vein treatments are usually needed?
The number of treatments depends on the size, location, and number of veins being treated. Some patients require multiple sessions for optimal improvement.
Is spider vein treatment painful?
Most patients tolerate treatment well, though mild burning, stinging, or temporary discomfort may occur during injections or laser treatment.
Do treated spider veins come back?
Successfully treated vessels often improve permanently, though new spider veins may develop over time.
If you are interested in treatment options for spider veins or superficial leg veins, our team can help determine whether sclerotherapy or laser treatment may be appropriate for you.