Spider veins are tiny blue or red veins which are typically a cosmetic problem. These do not cause symptoms or any health problems. Spider veins can be treated with sclerotherapy or laser. Sclerotherapy involves injecting an irritating material into the vein with a small needle. This then causes the vein to close and over time, the vein disappears. Typically, after the procedure, the leg is wrapped for 24 hours. Most patients require two to three treatment sessions. Occasionally, patients develop some discoloration at the injection site, but this usually disappears within a few weeks to months.

Laser treatments are delivered with a state of the art Cutera CoolGlide laser. Light energy is used to coagulate the blood vessel. Over time, the body then reabsorbs the vein. This may also require two to three treatment sessions. Patients may rarely get darkening or lightening of the skin. We recommend patients not exercise for 24 hours but are able to do all of their other activities. Laser therapy is not typically recommended for dark-skinned people because of the risks of lightening those areas of the skin. Laser therapy may also be used to treat spider veins on the face.

All patients with spider veins will be evaluated by a fellowship-trained vascular surgeon. A treatment plan will be formulated and discussed with the patient. Treatments may require sclerotherapy, laser therapy alone or in combination. Spider vein treatments are typically cosmetic and not covered by insurance. Those fees will be discussed with the patient.