Orange County Vein Clinic

Orange County has numerous physicians and clinics which deal exclusively with spider veins. These small "star" shaped bluish veins are of a major cosmetic problem to millions of women in the US. Spider veins are superficial veins which may occur either singly or be multiple. When one looks at them, they reveal a dark bluish center with numerous finer lines radiating from the center-hence the name "spider". Spider veins are most common on the thigh and knee area and occasionally may also appear on the face. Even though all ethnic groups can develop spider veins, they are most prominent in fair skinned people. In general, they are more common in females.

Can spider veins disappear on their own?

Unfortunately, spider veins rarely spontaneously disappear. The smallest of the spider veins may fade but never completely disappear. The majority of the spider veins persist and become prominent over time.

Can spider veins cause leg swelling or pain?

No, Spider veins are small and pinpoint-like and not responsible for any of the muscle aches or fatigue of the legs. Spider veins are of only a cosmetic concern.

What is the treatment of spider veins?

Physicians in Orange County are all well acquainted with the various methods of treating spider veins. In Orange County, most vein clinics offer the following treatments for spider veins:

- sclerotherapy

- laser

Can spider veins anywhere else on the body be treated?

Yes, some physicians in Orange County are well trained and acquainted with the use of various lasers on all parts of body. Spider veins on the face can be just as easily treated.

Can Spider veins be cured permanently with laser?

No, laser therapy is not curative for spider veins. Laser therapy does remove them, but some new spider veins may form in future. If preventive measures are taken, the spider veins may never recur.

How effective are lasers for spider veins?

Physicians in Orange County who deal with spider veins believe that laser therapy is currently the gold standard. Most physicians have found that laser is very effective for the treatment of spider veins. The laser is a much faster procedure and associated with minimal pain. The laser works by destroying the spider veins but prevents damage to the adjacent normal tissues. The result is a smooth surface with no change in skin texture.

How many laser sessions are required for treating spider veins?



It generally depends on how many spider veins you have. Some cosmetic physicians in Orange County recommend that individuals undergo a couple of laser sessions for the full benefit of the treatment.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a widely used treatment for spider veins and has been around for decades. Most cosmetic physicians in Orange County are well acquainted with the use of sclerotherapy for spider veins. With this technique, an irritating chemical is injected with a very fine needle in each spider vein. The irritating chemical destroys the spider veins which slowly disappear over a period of a few weeks. Unfortunately, the procedure is time consuming and does sting a little bit. To decrease the pain, a topical local anesthetic is applied to the skin 20 minutes prior to the injections. After the procedure, one has to wear compression stockings for about 7-10 days.

Which is the best treatment for spider veins?

Physicians in Orange County highly recommend the laser for spider veins. Sclerotherapy is used but is fast being replaced by laser. The laser produces results faster, is more convenient, less painful and there is little time off work. However, the laser is slightly more expensive than sclerotherapy.



When should I get my spider veins treated?

At your first visit to a cosmetic physician in Orange County, you will be thoroughly examined and provided with details regarding the most suitable treatment for your spider veins. Because spider veins are of only cause cosmetic concern, there is never an urgent rush for surgery. You will be given details and explanation of all the treatments, their possible benefits and disadvantages. The treatment can be done whenever it is suitable for you. If you are pregnant, it is best to wait a few months after delivery and then be reassessed by a physician.



How can I prevent spider veins?

Prevention is the only cure for spider veins. For those of you who want to try the preventive measures before undergoing treatment, you should:



- avoid standing for long periods

- get a pair of decent compression stockings

- be active and exercise daily

- if you are overweight, try and lose some weight

Does insurance cover spider vein treatments?

Unfortunately, spider veins are considered cosmetic in nature and the cost of treatment is not covered by any insurance companies. The cost of treating spider veins ranges from $200-400 per leg. Most physicians in Orange County will make all necessary financial arrangements to help you get your treatment.